An elimination period, also referred to as the benefit waiting period, is the length of time a member must be disabled before disability benefits are payable on a Short Term Disability (STD) or Long Term Disability (LTD) contract.
An elimination period works as follows:
- The elimination period is based on calendar days.
- No benefits are paid during the elimination period.
- The elimination period is not included in the maximum duration.
Example: Assume your STD plan provides 26 weeks of benefits (the maximum duration) with a 7-day elimination period.
- The 26 weeks of benefits begin after the 7-day elimination period.
- Benefits will begin on the 8th calendar day.
- Benefits could continue for up to 26 weeks (subject to the terms and conditions of the plan).
For your specific plan benefit, log into Guardian Anytime and from the menu options, select Benefits.