Short-term disability (STD) typically provides income replacement for a temporary period when an individual is unable to work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy. The duration of short-term disability benefits generally ranges from a few weeks up to a maximum of one year, depending on the specific policy or employer plan. Typical Duration:
- Most short-term disability plans cover between 3 to 6 months (approximately 13 to 26 weeks)
- Some plans may extend coverage up to 12 months (52 weeks), but this is less common and often requires medical proof and adherence to treatment plans to qualify for extensions
Waiting Period:
- There is usually an elimination or waiting period before benefits begin, often ranging from 1 to 14 days after the disability starts
Extensions and Transition:
- If an employee remains unable to work after the short-term disability period ends, they may be eligible to extend benefits or transition to long-term disability insurance, which covers longer durations, often years or until retirement age
In summary, short-term disability usually lasts between 3 to 6 months, with some plans allowing up to one year under certain conditions. It is important to review the specific terms of the policy or employer plan to understand the exact duration and requirements.
