Temporary Disability: Are You Covered?

Most of us don't think about disability insurance until we are faced with a medical emergency. Many workers assume that they are covered by the state temporary disability plan. This is not always the case.

Ten years ago, I began working for a company that offered good pay and great benefits. I was only 22 and disability was that the furthest thing from my mind. Two years later, I was involved in a terrible auto accident. A drunk driver, on the wrong side of the road hit my car head on. I suffered many injuries and required knee surgery. It was obvious that I would not be able to return to work for quite some time.

When I called my employer, I was shocked to learn that I was not covered under the state temporary disability plan. The employer offered a private disability plan that workers could buy into. Strangely enough, this was not something mentioned during new employee orientation. I used my accumulated sick days and took an unpaid leave of absence, so that I could recover. I even returned to work earlier than I would have because I needed the money to pay my bills.

When you accept a position, be sure to ask whether or not you are covered under the state temporary disability plan or you have to buy into a private plan. Chances are that you will not suffer an injury, but if you do, at least you'll be covered.