Dealing with an illness or injury that keeps you from working is stressful. If you’re unable to earn a paycheck, you may wonder: What disability benefits can help me? There are three main types of disability benefits: short-term disability (STD), long-term disability (LTD) and federal SSI and SSDI disability benefits. All provide financial help, but they work in different ways and are provided from different sources.
At Collins Price, we’ve helped many people understand their options and apply for benefits. This guide will explain the key differences so you can make the right choice for your situation.
What Is Short-Term Disability (STD)?
Short-term disability benefits help replace a portion of your income if you can’t work due to an illness, injury, or medical condition. These benefits usually last for a few weeks or months, depending on the policy. Short-term disability benefits are most frequently provided by your employer and are listed in your benefits package when you apply for open enrollment. While each plan is different, they commonly share similar features.
Key Features of Short-Term Disability:
✅ Covers Temporary Conditions – If your condition is expected to improve within a few months, STD is an option.
✅ Fast Payouts – You may start receiving benefits within a few days to a couple of weeks after approval.
✅ Limited Duration – Most STD policies last 3 to 6 months (sometimes up to a year).
✅ Employer-Provided or Private Insurance – Many jobs offer STD benefits, but you can also buy a private policy.
Common Conditions Covered by Short-Term Disability:
- Pregnancy and childbirth recovery
- Surgeries and recovery periods
- Broken bones
- Severe illnesses like pneumonia
- Mental health conditions (depending on the policy)
How to Apply for Short-Term Disability
If your employer provides STD and you have elected those benefits, ask them about your eligibility and any waiting periods. Often, you’ll need medical documentation from a doctor confirming you cannot work and you’ll be required to submit a claim for benefits. if working with a private policy, you’ll need to contact your policy holder directly for next steps.
What Is Long-Term Disability (LTD)?
Long-term disability benefits are designed for serious medical conditions that keep you from working for an extended period—or even permanently. There are private plans and federal programs offered through the Social Security Administration (including SSDI and SSI insurance) which may be available to claimants. Click here to see current payment and qualifying information for SSDI and SSI benefits.
If using private or employer-provided long-term disability benefits, you can expect the following features:
Key Features of Long-Term Disability:
✅ Covers Long-Term or Permanent Disabilities – If you won’t recover quickly, LTD provides extended financial support.
✅ Longer Waiting Period – Benefits usually start after 3 to 6 months of being disabled.
✅ Benefits Last for Years – Some policies pay for several years, while others last until retirement age.
✅ Requires Private Insurance – LTD is usually purchased through an employer or privately (it is not provided by Social Security).
Common Conditions Covered by Long-Term Disability:
- Chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis or cancer
- Severe back injuries or paralysis
- Heart disease or stroke recovery
- Debilitating mental health disorders
- Permanent nerve or joint damage
How to Apply for Long-Term Disability or Social Security Disability Benefits
If you have an employer-provided or private long-term disability plan, review your policy to check both your eligibility as well as any relevant waiting periods. You’ll need to maintain an active record of medical treatment with a medical provider and file a claim on a timely basis. If you’re applying for SSDI or SSI benefits and working with a disability attorney, your lawyer will assess your eligibility, file your paperwork, and represent your claim and any necessary appeals to the Social Security Administration.
Key Differences Between Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
| Feature | Short-Term Disability (STD) | Long-Term Disability (LTD) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Covers temporary disabilities | Covers long-term or permanent disabilities |
| Duration | 3 to 6 months (sometimes up to a year) | Several years or until retirement age |
| Waiting Period | 0 to 14 days | 90 to 180 days |
| Approval Process | Faster, requires medical proof | More complex, may include insurance evaluations |
| Who Provides It? | Employer or private insurance | Private insurance only |
| Common Conditions | Pregnancy, surgeries, short-term injuries | Chronic illnesses, permanent disabilities |
What About Social Security Disability?
If you have a disability that prevents you from working for at least a year, you might qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Unlike STD and LTD, Social Security Disability benefits come from the government, not private insurance. However, the approval process can take several months or even years. SSDI is a work-based insurance program you ‘pay into’ with your tax dollars as you accumulate work credits at your job, while SSI is a resource and needs-based disability program for people who cannot work,
Which Type of Disability Benefit Do You Need?
🤔 If you’ll recover within a few months: Short-term disability is a good choice.
🤔 If your condition will last for years or permanently: Long-term disability or Social Security Disability may be better.
🤔 If you’re unsure: Talk to a disability lawyer or to an insurance provider who specializes in short- or long-term disability benefits! We can help you understand your options.
In some cases, individuals have multiple benefits available to them including short-term and long-term disability benefits. Before applying for Social Security, contact a qualified Disability lawyer to ensure you meet the program’s basic requirements.
Get Help with Your Disability Claim
If you or someone you know has been out of work or expects to be out of work for at least a year, contact our firm today for a free consultation on your SSDI and SSI benefits. There is no fee for the consultation and if we agree to represent you, no fee for our services unless you win your claim.
