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you insured if you become disabled? MEMBER BENEFITS 
Feb. 11, 2004 Disability insurance provides monthly benefit payments when you are unable to work in your regular occupation as a result of a covered illness or injury. Disability insurance is offered in short- and long-term policies. A short-term policy usually pays benefits for a 12-month period, whereas long-term policies usually pay benefits to age 65. Disability insurance differs from health insurance, which helps cover medical expenses related to a disability. Disability insurance partially covers the loss of income so you can still cover your day-to-day expenses. Otherwise, you may have to rely on savings to maintain your lifestyle or, at least, use up accrued sick leave. A disability could have a considerable impact on your financial security. Health insurance can provide spousal and dependent children coverage. Disability insurance is an individual policy underwritten based on your health and profession. It doesn't include spousal or dependent coverage. Public school employees are not automatically covered by New York State Disability Insurance, a short-term plan. Members should verify availability of this coverage with their employers. Some employers or local association benefit funds provide group disability coverage. If you are covered by a group policy, find out what level of coverage is provided. Some group plan benefits may not be sufficient to cover the costs of a severe disability. Benefits provided by a group plan are taxable, whereas benefits provided by an individual plan are tax-free. If you are permanently and totally disabled, you may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The claim process can be lengthy and complicated, even if you are ultimately approved for benefits. New York State United Teachers Member Benefits offers short- and long-term disability policies to members and agency fee payers who are under age 64. The policies are underwritten by First Unum. Members may apply for up to 60 percent of their gross monthly earnings. The maximum benefit available is $5,000 per month, and benefits are tax-free. In addition to a monthly disability benefit, the plan provides benefits for accidental death and dismemberment, loss of sight and hospital confinement. A NYSUT Disability Insurance Plan II for associate members, retiree members, and spouses or domestic partners of NYSUT members and agency fee payers is available. Applicants must be under age 64, work at least 30 hours per week, and have an occupation that meets underwriting guidelines. For information about the NYSUT Disability Insurance Plan or Plan II, contact the plan administrator at 888 38NYSUT (888-386-9788). |
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