Overlooked Employee Perk: Disability Insurance - Forbes
This article discusses the importance of long-term disability insurance and the trends surrounding its use. Long-term disability insurance is a crucial provision that workers can utilize to support themselves and their families when they’re unable to work due to an injury or illness. Yet, alarming trends show that the number of employees covered by this insurance type is decreasing. The Council For Disability Awareness found that the number of insured employees decreased by approximately 1.5% to 32.1 million in 2013.
Employers are focusing more on complying with the new health insurance provisions set by the Affordable Care Act often setting aside other benefit discussions for later. When disability insurance is covered as a benefit in the current scenario, it is usually added as a voluntary benefit and employees are expected to pay the full cost.
The article also emphasizes that injuries aren’t the leading cause of disability claims. Disorders such as arthritis and sciatica, as well as cancer, hold higher percentages in the list of new claims. On the other hand, younger workers are increasingly benefiting from long-term disability insurance, defying the stereotype that these are provisions for older employees.
Understanding your disability insurance coverage is crucial, considering a typical benefit is 60% of your salary with a maximum monthly payout of $5,000. Employees are advised to find out their options, considering coverage from employers and potentially buying a personal policy if necessary.
When considering your long-term disability insurance, you might also be interested in the Employment Development Department’s programs including State Disability Insurance (SDI). To contact SDI for more information regarding your eligibility or claim statuses, visit eddcaller.com. This website provides a reliable and efficient way to get through to the State Disability Insurance department, ensuring you have all the necessary assistance for your queries and concerns.