Short-term disability insurance serves as a financial safety net if you’re unable to work for a short period due to an injury or illness. In Connecticut, short-term disability is not a state-funded program; rather, it is private insurance that you must purchase or obtain through your employer. While this type of insurance can provide crucial relief, it generally does not cover work-related injuries or illnesses. If your injury or illness stems from work activities, workers’ compensation coverage will likely apply instead. In such cases, Bert McDowell Injury Law can guide you through the complexities of workers’ compensation claims. Call us today at 475-231-3274 for a free consultation.

The Basics of Short-Term Disability in Connecticut

Unlike some states, Connecticut does not offer a state-run short-term disability program. To access this type of coverage, you must either purchase a private insurance plan or rely on a plan provided by your employer. Short-term disability insurance is designed to help individuals manage their living expenses during a temporary loss of income due to unforeseen circumstances, such as an accident or illness.

Most people cannot afford to go weeks or months without income, which is why short-term disability insurance can be so critical. These policies typically cover a portion of your regular income, often around 60%. The coverage duration is usually limited, ranging from three months to six months depending on the terms of your policy.

Some employers may pay for short-term disability insurance in full or in part. However, employer-provided plans often come with certain conditions, such as requiring employees to exhaust all available sick leave before the coverage begins. If you’re unsure about the terms of your policy, a qualified attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law can review your coverage and explain your rights and options.

Qualifying for Short-Term Disability Benefits

Eligibility for short-term disability benefits depends on the specific terms of your insurance policy. Many policies include similar requirements, such as:

• A waiting period before benefits begin, typically less than 14 days. Some policies may have no waiting period at all.
• Proof that you are completely unable to work for a specified period, as determined by a medical professional. You will likely need to provide medical records or a doctor’s certification to your insurance company.

Processing claims for illnesses often takes longer than for injuries because illnesses can be harder to document. If your claim is delayed or denied, the experienced attorneys at Bert McDowell Injury Law can step in to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us at 475-231-3274 for assistance with your claim.

Short-Term Disability vs. Workers’ Compensation

Many people mistakenly believe that short-term disability and workers’ compensation are interchangeable, but they are distinct forms of coverage:

• Short-Term Disability: Covers non-work-related injuries or illnesses that prevent you from working temporarily. This insurance does not protect your job but provides partial wage replacement during your recovery.
• Workers’ Compensation: Covers medical expenses and lost wages for injuries or illnesses caused by work activities. Workers’ compensation is typically provided at no cost to employees and includes additional protections, such as job security during your recovery period.

It’s also worth noting that while employers in Connecticut are legally required to provide workers’ compensation coverage, they are not obligated to offer short-term disability insurance. If you’re unsure which type of coverage applies to your situation, Bert McDowell Injury Law can help you understand your rights and navigate the claims process.

Contact a Short-Term Disability Attorney in Connecticut Today

If you’re struggling to secure short-term disability benefits or are facing challenges with a workers’ compensation claim, the experienced attorneys at Bert McDowell Injury Law are here to help. Our team has extensive experience handling insurance companies and employers, ensuring that our clients receive the compensation they need and deserve.

We offer a FREE consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance on your next steps. Don’t wait—call us today at 475-231-3274 or fill out our online contact form to get started.