by Brooke Carbo
Starting April 1, 2025, UAB will offer short-term disability insurance through Standard Insurance Company.
Short-term disability insurance pays a weekly benefit to participants who experience a covered disability and meet the plan requirements. It provides a set percentage of the covered employee’s income for their time away from work after an initial waiting period. Covered disabilities include accident, injury or illness, such as back pain, depression or cancer. Time off for childbirth or pregnancy-related complications is also covered.
“We are excited to be able to offer this new benefit to our employees,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Janet May. “Taking time off for a disabling condition can quickly drain savings and jeopardize long-term financial security. Short-term disability insurance can help keep finances on track.”
Short-term disability insurance can help with financial obligations and expenses that health insurance won’t cover, such as food, childcare and mortgage or rent payments.
The Standard’s short-term disability insurance also includes access to its Health Advocacy Select service. When covered employees are out of work on a claim, Health Advocacy Select service provides a personal health advocate who can help navigate the healthcare system, make sense of a diagnosis and research treatment options, including help finding the right doctors, specialists and hospitals, untangling medical bills and more.
The special enrollment period for UAB-sponsored voluntary short-term disability insurance is March 17-26. After this special enrollment period, an extended benefit waiting period may be required. Visit the UAB for Me Benefits Portal during the special enrollment period to enroll.
To learn more about UAB’s short-term disability insurance option, including FAQs and eligibility information, visit the UAB for Me Benefits Portal.