Because of a disability, public disability benefit programs may provide some protection against loss of income. How much these programs can help depends on whether or not you would be eligible for them. The Federal Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, state workers’ compensation programs, and mandated short term disability insurance coverage are known as safety net programs. Each one has restrictions, drawbacks and limitations. None of them can be relied on for adequate, comprehensive disability income insurance protection.
If you become disabled and unable to work, do not assume that you can rely on these programs to cover your needs. The SSDI definition of disability is very restrictive so qualifying for the benefit is difficult. Individuals must have significant physical or mental impairments that prevent them from engaging in any substantial gainful occupation, in order to qualify for SSDI benefits. Any employment where a person can earn at least $940 per month is defined as substantial gainful occupation.
Your disability must be expected to last at least one year to qualify for benefits, or result in death. As you can see, a very stringent requirement, one that you will find in few, disability income insurance policies.