Frequently asked questions

Disability Insurance

Below you’ll find answers to the questions we get asked the most when
inquiring about Disability Insurance

What is Disability Insurance?

Disability insurance replaces a portion of your income if you can’t work for a prolonged time due to an accident or illness.

How does Disability Insurance work?

You can no longer work due to an accident, illness, or some other medical condition.
Complete a claim form, which involves three parts: Employee Statement, Employer Statement, and Physician Statement.
While the claim is processing you complete your elimination period of 30 or 180 days, depending on plan.
Receive benefits under the terms of the contract until you are medically cleared to return to work, or reach the maximum benefit age.
Optional vocational and rehabilitative training assists disabled federal employees in getting back on their feet and back to work.

Who is eligible to enroll?

All active federal employees and federal contractors* working at least 20 hours per week are eligible except for postal workers. Postal workers (USPS employees) are an excluded class under the program and are not eligible to enroll.

*In order to be eligible for enrollment, federal contractors must receive compensation directly from their contracting agency.

Do I have to take a physical exam?

No, you are not required to take a physical exam or provide medical evidence in order to enroll on our disability program.

Is there a pre-existing condition?

While no medical questionnaire is required to enroll in the disability insurance program, please be aware that a Preexisting Condition provision applies if you become disabled within 24 months of becoming insured.

A Preexisting Condition is a mental or physical condition whether or not diagnosed or misdiagnosed for which you have:

Consulted a physician or other licensed medical professional;
Received medical treatment, services or advice;
Undergone diagnostic procedures, including self-administered procedures; or
Taken prescribed drugs or medications

Which, as a result of any medical examination, including routine examination, was discovered or suspected during the 12 months just before your insurance became effective.

When does the coverage become effective?

Your coverage becomes effective on the date your first allotment is received.

How do I enroll?

Enrollment is simple, enroll online and we’ll process the form (1 – 2 business days) and mail you instructions for setting up your payroll deduction. You are not actively enrolled in the program until you have set up and made your first allotment.

How do I pay for the plan?

Premiums are paid bi-weekly from your paycheck through salary allotment. Monthly-paid employees would pay monthly. All premiums are after-tax.

What exclusions or limitations exist?

Exclusions include: war, insurrection or rebellion, self-inflicted injury, attempted suicide, commission or attempt to commit a felony.

24 month limitation of benefits include: mental nervous disorders, alcohol, drug or substance abuse.

Will my premiums increase with age?

Yes, our program is an age-banded group contract as follows:

Regular Employees: Under 35 , 35-44 , 45-49 , 50-54 , 55-59, 60 & over.

Special Groups Employees: Under 35 , 35-44 , 45-49 , 50-54 , 55+

Title 38 & Title 38 Hybrid Employees: Under 35 , 35-44 , 45-49 , 50-54 , 55-59, 60+

Can I change or cancel the plan?

Yes, you can make changes or cancel your plan at any time.

Can I take the coverage when I retire or leave my job?

If you leave federal service you may convert the plan to an individual plan (different rates and coverage) without having to pass underwriting, providing medical evidence, or having to go through another pre-existing condition.

Since disability insurance protects your paycheck if you can't work, coverage is not needed (or available) in retirement.