Short-Term Disability

Florida does not administer a state short term disability insurance program. Employees who are unable to work because of a non work related illness, injury, or pregnancy related condition may be eligible for benefits and protections through several different sources, depending on the circumstances and the Company's current benefit plan offerings.

Voluntary Company Coverage

The Company may offer voluntary short term disability insurance through a private carrier as part of its benefits program. Where offered, this coverage replaces a portion of an eligible employee's wages for a defined period during a covered disability, subject to the terms of the policy. Eligibility, premiums, waiting periods, benefit amounts, and the maximum benefit duration are set by the plan. Refer to the actual plan documents and summary plan description for the controlling terms, and contact Human Resources for enrollment and claim information.

Work Related Injury or Illness

Disabilities caused by a work related injury or illness are covered under Florida's workers' compensation system rather than under short term disability insurance. See the Workers' Compensation topic in this Handbook.

Job Protected Leave

For an extended absence due to a serious health condition, eligible employees may also be entitled to unpaid, job protected leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act. Pregnancy related conditions may additionally qualify for accommodation or leave under the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. See the Family and Medical Leave and Pregnancy Related Accommodation topics for details.

Coordination of Benefits

Where a short term disability claim is approved, the Company may require concurrent use of accrued paid time off or sick leave to bridge any waiting period or to supplement partial wage replacement, consistent with the plan terms and applicable law. Contact Human Resources for guidance specific to your situation.