Can I get longterm and Shortterm disability insurance from someplace else( my school district offers it alrea?

Okay here is the deal. I am a public school teacher and the district offers long term and short term disability. I am in my twenties and don’t have health issues. I have insurance with the school system, however I called today to find out more info and i found out its non transferable. When and if I stop working for the school district, I will lose both insurances. I want to get insurance through a company not through my school so that lets say when im 40 or however old, and I decide to get another job, I wont lose my policy and have to start from scratch. I was told that since my employer offers long term and short term disbility that I wont be able to get it through a proviate company. I hope that is untrue. SO basically does anyone know of any companies that would give me a policy? I want a good short and long term policy that also covers for mental disabilities (depression etc).

First off, yes you can get your own coverage even though your district offers long and short term disability, as long as you are not covered by both. What you DON’T want to do, is sign up for the districts plan and then purchase additional disability coverage. The plans will coordinate, meaning both will NOT pay out. So if the district plans are optional, meaning you have to sign up/pay a portion of the premium, then yes go for your own, individual, plan.

At your age I think your reasoning is very sound. If you go out and get your own coverage now, your rates are locked in.. until and unless you decide to change. You will though, find that individual disability coverage can be pricey and you will have to satisfy the company’s underwriting.

As for companies that offer disability, I’d check with MetLife, Prudential, The Hartford ( one of the best IMHO ), The Principal, Unum. If you have your own TSA ( or some other retirement annuity ) set up, you might also want to check with their rep to see if they offer disability, or even the NEA ( National Education Association ). You might still be able to get group rates for an individual plan. And lastly, you might try speaking to a broker in your area, who can help you in your search.

As for disabilities due to mental illness, or substance abuse, they usually are covered. However, they generally have a benefit period limitation of 24 months max.

LPACTV: Franklin Roosevelt and Public Health

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