Long-term disability insurance
Protection to replace income in challenging times
Pays a portion of your salary after you have been ill or injured for an extended period of time
When you need to recover from an extended illness or injury, this benefit will start paying a portion of your salary after a certain period of time, typically after Short-Term Disability payments end.
What it does
Pays a portion of your salary so you can cover your expenses while you’re unable to perform your job function. Check with your benefits representative for your company’s specific plan details.How it works
This benefit typically starts after Short-Term Disability payments end, paying 60% of your income up until you recover or reach age 65. There is often a maximum payment based on salary.What it doesn't do
Payments will not start immediately. Before this coverage begins, Short-Term Disability will typically cover the first 13 to 26 weeks of payments. This benefit does not provide job protection.
50% of AmericansSave none of their income and 68% have no emergency savings.1
1 Council for Disability Awareness, Disability Divide Consumer Disability Awareness Study, 2010.
Q&A
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What is long-term disability insurance?Long-term disability insurance provides you with income replacement and protects you against the possibility of losing income for an extended period of time due to an illness, injury or accident. Benefit payments usually start after short-term disability insurance benefits end if you are determined to be disabled.
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When do long-term disability benefit payments begin and how long can they last?They typically start after short-term disability payments end, and can last for as long as you are disabled up to your normal retirement age. Payments are made directly to you via your employer, based on plan guidelines.
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What is an elimination period?It’s a waiting period between the time when your disability begins and the time when you begin receiving benefit payments during which time you must remain disabled.
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How much disability insurance do I need?That depends on your needs and what percentage of your salary you think you would need if you were unable to work.
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How do I get disability insurance?Typically you would get it through your employer, though you can purchase it on your own. It tends to be more expensive if you purchase it on your own.
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What does it mean to be disabled?Being disabled means you have a physical or mental condition that limits movements, senses or activities. Check with your benefits representative for your company’s specific plan details.
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What can I use disability benefit payments for?You can use the payments for anything you see fit. They can help cover any medical expenses, you can use them to pay day-to-day expenses, or anything else you want.
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Are there disabilities that aren't covered by the insurance?Every policy is different, but typically short- and long-term disability insurance will not cover things like intentionally self-inflicted injuries, loss of professional or occupational license or certificate, or injuries that happened while committing a crime or during war or an act of war, whether its declared or undeclared. It also won’t cover pre-existing conditions, like a disability you had before you signed up for the policy.
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Can I keep my coverage if I leave my job or my employment is terminated?In some cases, yes. You may be able to keep your short- and long-term disability insurance temporarily, but check with your employer to be sure.
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Will my disability benefit payments be taxed?They can be. If your employer pays the premiums for your short-term disability insurance, the benefit payments you receive can be taxed. But, if you pay the entire premium, you may not be required to report the benefit amount to the IRS. Please seek advice from a tax or other qualified professional.
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Does workers compensation or other government benefits affect my disability benefits?If you are receiving income from another insurance policy, retirement benefits or a government program, such as workers’ compensation, your disability benefits may be reduced.
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How much will I receive for disability benefits?If you are receiving income from another insurance policy, retirement benefits or a government program, such as workers’ compensation, your disability benefits may be reduced.
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When should I file a claim?If you are receiving income from another insurance policy, retirement benefits or a government program, such as workers’ compensation, your disability benefits may be reduced.
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What information do I need to file a claim?If you are receiving income from another insurance policy, retirement benefits or a government program, such as workers’ compensation, your disability benefits may be reduced.
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How do I file a claim?If you are receiving income from another insurance policy, retirement benefits or a government program, such as workers’ compensation, your disability benefits may be reduced.
Equitable's full suite of insurance products
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NEW MEXICO RESIDENTS: Please be advised that this Suite of Insurance Products section of our website is not currently directed to, applicable to, or intended for any person residing in the state of New Mexico.
These products only provide disability income insurance THESE POLICIES ARE NOT MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLANS. They do NOT provide basic hospital, basic medical or major medical insurance as defined by the New York State Department of Financial Services. The policies have limitations and exclusions. Optional riders and/or features may incur additional costs. Plan documents are the final arbiter of coverage. Policy Form/Contract AXEBP15DI; MOEBP15DI and State variations.
GE-116932 (05/2017)