Disability Insurance Articles

Requirements That Must Be Met To Use Disability Insurance

2011-02-17

Disability insurance is designed to compensate you if you become disabled while employed. When obtaining disability insurance quotes, and gathering information, know that most insurance policies contain exclusions, limitations, and terms. Whether you are seeking a long-term or short-term plan, it is important to understand the disability insurance requirements that need to be met in order to receive the benefits.

In order to be eligible for disability insurance there are specific criteria that must be met. You will need to have been employed during the time your disability occurred and unable to perform regular work for at least 8 days. An important factor in determining eligibility is proof that your salary has discontinued because of disability. If you are unemployed, yet seeking employment during the time disability occurred you may also be eligible. The condition of your health will need to be confirmed by your medical provider who was treating you during (and after) the time you became disabled. Your earnings must be at least $300 prior to your disability with SDI deductions withheld. Additionally, pregnancy is often considered a disability with insurance benefits provided during necessary time spent off work due to pregnancy related complications, bed rest and to provide care for your newborn.

Along with failing to meet any of these eligibility requirements, there are other circumstances that may prevent you from receiving benefits. Those receiving unemployment insurance, or paid family leave benefits will not qualify for disability benefits. Also, you cannot receive weekly Workers' compensation benefits at a rate that is equal to or greater than the rate you are receiving you're your disability insurance.

Once you determine whether you meet eligibility factors for disability insurance requirements the first step you must take is to complete and mail claim forms within about 6 weeks of the date you became disabled. Next, you will be expected to undergo an independent medical examination to prove that you are physically or mentally disabled in such a way that the disability prevents you from working or seeking employment.

The amount of compensation you'll receive, the length of time and conditions under which they pay are the details you should be most concerned with. If you are collecting disability benefits from an insurance company, be aware that your medical records will be reviewed to see if you remain disabled and are eligible to continue with benefits.

If you unsure about meeting any of the disability eligibility requirements, you can always still file a claim for disability insurance quotes. Your claim will be reviewed and a decision will be still be made regardless of whether you meet all or part of the requirements