Three Steps to Take When Planning to Return to Work After a Disability
A long term disability can be life altering, for yourself and for your family. It can impact your livelihood and your ability to continue to earn an income. That’s why a long term disability (LTD) income insurance plan that offers a return-to-work option can be such an important part of your financial plan. It offers a measure of security that will allow you to concentrate on your first priority – getting well – without worrying too much about how you’ll meet your financial responsibilities. But perhaps just as important, it can help you to get your life back to as normal a routine as possible by allowing you to resume working while still receiving benefits.
Returning to work while receiving disability benefits can be rewarding, but it will take some coordination between your LTD provider, your employer and yourself.
Here are three important steps you should take when you return to work:
- Inform your LTD provider you wish to return to work. In most cases, once your provider offers a “return to work option” and approves your return, your benefits will continue after you re-enter the workforce. Benefits may be reduced to take into account your new income, and may cease all together if you begin earning an income comparable to your pre-disability income. Make sure to keep your provider abreast of your plans – going back to work without your provider’s consent may jeopardize your LTD benefits.
- Contact your HR department to find out what requirements they have regarding your return. For instance, you may be required to submit release forms from your medical care provider clearing you to return to work. HR may also be able to offer you “light duty” or a transitional position as you readjust to the workforce.
- Alert your manager of any special accommodations you need. You may find that you have special needs such as ramps, more frequent breaks or a specialized keyboard to help you perform your job.
Depending on your LTD plan, you may have access to services that can help you get additional training if you want to get back to work, but are no longer capable of fulfilling the duties you previously held. Many LTD plans offer assistance obtaining vocational training needed to re-enter the workforce.
Returning to work after a disability can be an uplifting experience that can help you physically, emotionally and financially. Make sure you have the option to get back on the job by choosing an LTD plan with a return-to-work option.
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