Disability Benefit Period

Disability benefit period is a feature of disability insurance that determines how long benefits will be paid to the policyholder in the event of a qualifying disability. The benefit period starts after the waiting period (or elimination period) has been satisfied, and it specifies the length of time that the policyholder will receive benefit payments.  

The benefit period can range from several months to several years, depending on the policy and the specific needs of the policyholder. Longer benefit periods typically have higher premiums. Some common benefit period options include:

  • 2-year benefit period: This is a common option for short-term disability insurance policies. Benefit payments would continue for up to 2 years after the waiting period has been satisfied.

  • 5-year benefit period: This option provides benefit payments for up to 5 years after the waiting period has been satisfied.

  • To age 65 benefit period: This option provides benefit payments until the policyholder reaches age 65, as long as they continue to meet the definition of disability.

  • Lifetime benefit period: This option provides benefit payments for the lifetime of the policyholder, as long as they continue to meet the definition of disability.

The benefit period is an important factor to consider when purchasing disability insurance, as it can greatly impact the level of protection and financial security provided to the policyholder in the event of a disability.

Next Up

Each month, Mployer Advisor breaks down the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent State Employment and Unemployment Summary to highlight some employment trends across various markets. This is an overview of November’s report. 
Now that the 2024 elections are mostly in the books, how will the shifting balance of power affect employer-sponsored healthcare?
Each month, Mployer collects and presents some of the most relevant and most pressing recent changes in law, compliance, and policy in areas related to employee benefits, health care, and human resources.