Short Term Disability/ Long Term Disability Frequently Asked Questions

Who do I call to initiate the Claim Process?

Please contact your Employers Resource at 866-214-9505 to obtain an application for Disability Benefits. The Disability Insurance Claim Packet will contain an Employer’s Statement, Employee’s Statement, Attending Physician’s Statement, and an Authorization to Obtain Information. The employer should complete the Employer’s Statement on page 2 of the application, and mail or fax it to Employers Resources Management at 800-615-3870. Please read the instruction sheet completely, before completing your portions of the Disability Benefits application.

Where do I send the completed forms?

Will I receive a confirmation from TheSTANDARD after I initiate a claim for STD/LTD?

Upon receipt of your application for Short Term Disability (STD) benefits, TheSTANDARD will send you a confirmation letter. This letter will also list any missing information, such an Attending Physician’s Statement or Employer’s Statement.

Upon receipt of your application for Long Term Disability (LTD) benefits, TheSTANDARD will contact you by telephone to discuss your claim and will send you a confirmation letter, which will also list any missing information, such an Attending Physician’s Statement or Employer’s Statement.

How long does it normally take for a claim decision?

Once TheSTANDARD receives a completed claim application, it will take
approximately one week to make a claim decision. If TheSTANDARD has not made a decision within one week, you will be notified with the details.

If my claim for STD benefits is approved, how long will it take to receive my first check?

Before STD benefits become payable, you must serve a benefit waiting period (period of time you must be disabled before benefits become payable). STD benefit payments are paid in arrears on a weekly basis. In most cases, STD checks are mailed on Wednesday of each week. STD benefit payments that are payable for retroactive claims will be mailed following claim approval. STD checks will be mailed directly to your residence.

If my claim for LTD benefits is approved, when will I receive my first check?

Before LTD benefits become payable, you must serve a benefit waiting period (period of time you must be disabled before benefits become payable). No benefits are payable during the benefit waiting period. Please consult your Certificate of Insurance for the benefit waiting period applicable to your claim. Once the benefit waiting period has been served, LTD benefit payments are paid in arrears. These benefits are paid on a monthly basis which is determined by your date of disability. Benefits may be received via electronic fund transfer (EFT), TheSTANDARD Secure Card (debit card), or by check mailed to your residence.

What should I do when I’m ready to return to work?

Your Disability benefits usually stop or are reduced when you return to work. To prevent an overpayment of benefits, please be sure that you or your employer notifies TheSTANDARD immediately when you plan to return, or have returned to work.

Whom should I call with questions about my claim?