What Is Short-Term Disability?

Definition of Short-Term Disability

Short-term disability insurance provides temporary financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to illness or injury. This benefit typically covers a portion of your salary for a set period, usually ranging from a few weeks to six months, depending on the policy.

Unlike long-term disability, which can last for years or even until retirement age, short-term disability is designed to help you while you recover from temporary conditions such as surgery, pregnancy, or non-chronic illnesses.

How to Apply for Short-Term Disability in Florida

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Since Florida does not offer state-funded short-term disability, you must rely on private insurance or employer-provided short-term disability benefits. Here’s how to determine your eligibility:

• Employer-Provided Insurance: If your employer offers short-term disability insurance, check your benefits package to confirm coverage and eligibility criteria. Some employers may require you to be employed for a certain period before you qualify.
• Private Insurance: If your employer does not offer short-term disability, you can purchase private short-term disability insurance on your own. This option provides the same financial benefits as employer-provided insurance but may come with different terms and premiums.
• Other Disability Programs: You may also qualify for benefits through federal programs, like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), but SSDI typically does not cover short-term disabilities.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

The next step is to gather the necessary documentation to support your claim. Common documents required for a short-term disability claim include:

• Medical Records: Detailed medical records from your doctor or healthcare provider outlining the nature of your illness or injury and how it affects your ability to work.
• Physician’s Statement: A statement from your doctor or healthcare provider confirming your disability and estimated recovery time.
• Employment Records: Information about your job, including your job title, description, and earnings, especially if you're applying through employer-provided insurance.
• Proof of Income: Your pay stubs or tax returns to verify the income you’ll be replacing through short-term disability benefits.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once you have all the necessary documentation, you can apply for short-term disability benefits. Here’s how:

• Employer-Provided Insurance: If you’re applying for short-term disability through your employer’s insurance provider, contact your HR department or insurance administrator to obtain the claim forms. Submit the completed forms along with your medical documentation to the insurance provider. Be sure to follow any specific instructions your employer or the insurer provides to avoid delays.
• Private Insurance: If you purchased a private policy, contact your insurance provider to request the claim forms. Complete the forms with the required documentation and submit them as instructed. Most private insurance companies allow you to submit claims online or via mail.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Once your claim is submitted, the insurance company or your employer’s insurance administrator will review your application. The review process typically takes a few weeks, but it can vary depending on the provider and the complexity of your case. During this time:

• Follow Up: If you haven’t received an update in a reasonable time, follow up with the insurer or HR department to check the status of your claim.
• Provide Additional Information: If the insurance provider requests additional information or documentation, respond promptly to avoid delays.

Step 5: Receive Your Benefits

If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving short-term disability benefits. These benefits are typically a percentage of your salary, often around 60-70%, depending on the insurance policy. The payment will continue for the duration of your disability or until you can return to work.

Step 6: Appeal a Denied Claim

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process usually involves submitting additional documentation or requesting a review of your case. Be sure to carefully review the reason for denial and address any issues in your appeal.