Disability

All disability claims must be submitted to and approved by the Hartford. Claims must be submitted within 15 calendar days from the date of the disability. To submit a claim, employees can contact the Hartford via phone or visit the Hartford website.

• Claim Unit: 1-877-484-9731

• State of DE policy number: 071675-STD, 675467-LTD

Eligibility:

• Any employee who is covered by the state pension plan is automatically enrolled in disability benefits

• Benefit is available after their first full day of work

• Covers illness, injury, pregnancy, and other conditions on or off the job with no pre-existing condition limitation

Payments:

• Employee uses sick and/or annual leave during the 30 calendar day elimination period

• After elimination period has been satisfied, disability pays 75% of salary / max of $2000 per week 

• Employee can use annual and sick leave to supplement payments up to your base salary

• The 30 calendar day elimination period can be met with intermittent leave, as long as absences are no longer than 14 calendar days apart

• Short-term disability has a max period of 182 days

Employees have 15 calendar days from the date of disability to file a claim. The Hartford has 10 days to approve/deny.  If the claim is denied, employees have 90 days to file an appeal. 

If Short Term Disability continues for 182 days, on the 183rd day, the employee is transitioned to Long Term Disability. 

• Pays 60% of salary, max of $8000

• Max period is based on age when disability began

• Paid once a month, not biweekly

• Employees can escrow annual and sick leave balances for 6 months or receive a payout

• Employees retain State group health, dental, and vision plans through the pension office

• Employees are required to apply for Social Security disability benefits if eligible

• Employees continue to accrue pension eligible service time while on LTD

• Appeals may be submitted to Hartford within 180 days of denial

• All employees are entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits.  This coverage is automatic and immediate.

• An on-the-job injury is defined as an accidental injury suffered in the course of your work, or an illness, which is directly related to performing your assigned job duties.  

• If you cannot work due to a job-related injury or illness, Workers’ Compensation insurance pays your medical bills and provides a portion of your income until you can return to work.

• All injuries or illnesses arising out of the scope of your employment must be reported to the building Nurse and the Business Manager.  

• A doctor’s clearance will be required before returning to work.  

• Failure to timely report a work-related injury or illness may negatively impact your eligibility for worker's compensation.