What is Short-Term Disability?

Short-term disability (STD) replaces a portion of your income if you cannot work due to a qualifying medical condition. It typically covers:

  • Non-work-related illnesses and injuries
  • Recovery from surgery
  • Pregnancy and childbirth recovery
  • Mental health conditions (if covered by the policy)

STD policies vary, but most provide benefits for a limited duration—commonly between 3 to 6 months—depending on the plan. Benefits typically cover 50% to 70% of your wages during the disability period.

Short-Term Disability in Oregon

Oregon does not have a state-run short-term disability insurance program. However, workers in Oregon can obtain short-term disability benefits through:

  1. Employer-Sponsored Short-Term Disability Plans

    • Some employers offer STD insurance as part of their benefits package.
    • Employees may need to pay part or all of the premium.
    • Benefits, waiting periods, and coverage duration vary by employer.

  2. Private Short-Term Disability Insurance

    • Individuals can purchase their own STD insurance from private providers.
    • Costs depend on age, health status, income, and coverage options.

  3. Paid Leave Oregon (State-Run Paid Family and Medical Leave Program)

    • Oregon has a Paid Leave Oregon program, which provides paid leave benefits for certain medical conditions.
    • Employees can receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave for their own serious health conditions.
    • This is not the same as traditional short-term disability, but it serves a similar function for many workers.

  4. Workers’ Compensation (For Work-Related Injuries or Illnesses)

    • If the disability is work-related, you may qualify for benefits under Oregon’s workers’ compensation program instead of STD.

4 Steps to Apply for Short-Term Disability in Oregon

  1. Determine Eligibility & Coverage

    • Check if your employer offers an STD plan.
    • Review the policy details, including coverage amount, duration, and exclusions.
    • If you don’t have employer-sponsored coverage, explore private insurance options.

  2. Submit a Claim

    • If you experience a qualifying medical condition, notify your employer or insurance provider as soon as possible.
    • Complete all required forms, including medical documentation from your doctor.

  3. Complete the Waiting Period

    • Most policies have a waiting period (usually 7-14 days) before benefits begin.
    • You may need to use paid sick leave or vacation time during this period.

  4. Receive Benefits & Return to Work

    • Once approved, you’ll receive benefits as per your policy terms.
    • Maintain communication with your employer and insurer regarding your expected return date.

Other Oregon Benefits That May Help

Besides short-term disability, Oregon offers several other programs that may provide financial assistance:

  1. Paid Leave Oregon

    • Provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave for serious health conditions, family caregiving, or bonding with a new child.
    • Funded by payroll contributions from employees and employers.

  2. Oregon Workers’ Compensation

    • Covers medical expenses and lost wages for work-related injuries and illnesses.

  3. Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits

    • If you lose your job due to no fault of your own and are medically able to work, you may qualify.

  4. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) & Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

    • For long-term or permanent disabilities, SSDI and SSI may provide federal assistance.

FAQs

1. Does Oregon have state-mandated short-term disability?

No, Oregon does not have a mandatory short-term disability program, but Paid Leave Oregon provides paid leave for qualifying medical conditions.

2. How much does private short-term disability insurance cost in Oregon?

Premiums vary based on age, income, health status, and coverage level. Costs typically range from $30 to $100 per month.

3. Can I use Paid Leave Oregon instead of short-term disability?

Yes, in many cases. Paid Leave Oregon provides partial wage replacement for up to 12 weeks for serious health conditions, similar to STD.

4. How long do short-term disability benefits last?

It depends on the policy. Most plans last 3 to 6 months, but some extend up to a year.

5. What conditions qualify for short-term disability in Oregon?

Commonly covered conditions include:

  • Surgery recovery
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Severe illness or injury (non-work-related)
  • Mental health conditions (if covered by the policy)

6. Can self-employed individuals get short-term disability in Oregon?

Yes, but they must purchase private STD insurance or enroll in Paid Leave Oregon if they opt into the program.

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