Short-term disability (STD)
STD is designed to bridge the gap when sick leave is exhausted and long-term disability benefits would begin. Benefits begin after a one week waiting period or after sick leave is exhausted, whichever is greater. The plan pays up to 60 percent of your weekly earnings up to a $1,500 per week maximum. STD benefits are payable up to seven or 25 weeks, depending on your vesting status. Benefit payments are non-taxable. This plan is fully paid by the employee who elects coverage and may be subject to Evidence of Insurability if not elected at the time of hire. Aetna is the contracted vendor for disability services.
Long-term disability (LTD)
LTD begins after 180 days of disability. The plan pays up to 60 percent of your monthly earnings up to a $10,000 per month maximum. LTD benefit payments are non-taxable. LTD benefits are paid for a maximum of two years, unless disabled from all occupations. This plan is fully paid by the employee who elects coverage and may be subject to Evidence of Insurability if not elected at the time of hire. Aetna is the contracted vendor for disability services.
PERA Short-term disability (STD)
As a vested employee (five years of service credit), you are entitled to PERA's STD plan at no cost to you. Benefits begin after a 60 day waiting period or when sick leave is exhausted, whichever is greater. The benefit may be paid up to 22 months and is taxable income.
If you are totally and permanently medically disabled from regular and substantial gainful employment or if you are eligible for a service retirement at the time you apply for PERA’s STD benefit, the claim will be denied. In this case, it may be beneficial for you to elect to apply for the voluntary Aetna STD benefit to avoid a gap in coverage.
PERA Disability Retirement Plan
Vested employees may be entitled to this benefit if totally or permanently disabled. Eligibility and benefit amount is determined by PERA.
