Frequently Asked Questions

Americans who suffer injury or illness that leaves them unable to work know the benefits offered by disability insurance. But many employers do not offer this insurance as part of their benefits package, or the benefit offered is not extensive enough. To fully protect yourself, it's vital that you seek out long-term disability coverage to protect you and your family in the event of an emergency. From figuring out the best long term disability rate to selecting the best company, here are answers to some commonly asked questions about disability.

What is disability insurance?

Disability insurance is money paid to you in the event that you are ill or injured and cannot work - it is money in place of your standard salary or paycheck. This can come in a variety of forms, whether it's provided by an insurance policy through your employer, a private policy you purchased, or through a public program such as the Social Security Administration. Depending on your injury and the policy, the money may be less than your paycheck - but enough to pay your mortgage and necessary bills while you heal.

Why is it important for me to think about disability insurance?

No one expects to get sick. No one thinks they'll be unable to work. But according to government statistics, it's estimated that one in five workers will at one time or another need disability coverage. Women often go on short-term disability coverage just after giving birth. Many blue-collar workers suffer on-the-job injuries and need disability coverage to help them get by while they rehabilitate. It's almost impossible to anticipate when you'll be disabled - or, for the purposes of this discussion, physically unable to work. If you aren't covered by a disability policy, your injury could grow into a financial burden from which you can't recover.

What's the difference between short-term and long-term disability insurance?

Short-term disability coverage provides just that, coverage for a shorter period of time. Depending on the policy, it could be from three to six months after your injury or illness. Long-term disability insurance won't kick in until after the short-term coverage has expired. While you may have access to both short- and long-term coverage, the policies may differ. Your benefits could be different from one policy to the other, and the rules about your coverage limitations could also vary. If you already have coverage, make sure you understand the policy.

Can I find disability coverage online?

Absolutely! Just like auto insurance, you can use the Internet to find disability insurance coverage. Through services such as LTDRate.com, you can be put in contact with insurers who will provide you with short- or long-term disability insurance. Be sure to fill out the form on this site to get more information. Your personal health history, in addition to other personal factors, can vary the overall cost of disability coverage. This is why the Internet is so useful: You can seek out competitive quotes and compare them, all from the comfort of home!