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Temporary Disability????

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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 10/18/2008 10:30 PM (GMT 0)
My rheumy is putting me on temporary disability. I have short and long term disability insurance through my job. I am a middle school teacher. Anyway, I am confused as what to do about this disability. I wonder if I do go back to work, will I still have my job? I really do think I need to stay home so that I can concentrate on "hopefully" getting better control of my arthritis. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Posted 10/18/2008 10:39 PM (GMT 0)

Hi,

Going on temporary disability is the same as, for example, when someone is working and needs surgery and they need to be out of work for a while to recouperate. I am not sure if all the states have the same rules, but in new jersey, if I remember correctly, one is entitled to receive up to 3 months (12 weeks) of temporary disability. And an employer is not allowed to fire you for being out on disability, they have to keep the same position or similar position open for  you upon return to work. You end up getting a little more than you would in unemployment. Disability in NJ pays about 2/3 of your weekly income. The only thing is, which is probably the case in most states, it takes almost a month to get your first check. I think you have to be "disabled" for at least 14 days, then it takes another week or 2 before you get a check. But again, I am not sure if it works the same in every state.

Posted 10/19/2008 1:39 AM (GMT 0)
That's a Federal law. Under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA.) you are entitled to 12 weeks per year of leave for medical reasons. Some states have a state disability program, most states don't. You say you have short term disability through your employer; most of those policies kick in after two weeks off and pay a weekly amount. Check with your human resources department; when I had to be off for surgery, I was able to draw on my STD policy even though I was also being paid from my accumulated sick leave. The extra money helped out a lot with my co-pays to everyone!

But yes, you can be off for 12 weeks and still be guaranteed of being able to return to work - perhaps not the same class, but an equal job.
Posted 10/19/2008 3:03 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks so much for your replies. I have never had to miss work. I am glad to know that I have at least 12 weeks and can still return to my job.

Posted 10/23/2008 10:33 AM (GMT 0)

Hi

I don't know if it's part of the Family Leave Law or if it was my company's policy, but when I first started with the joint pain and was diagnosed, my HR Manager said that I could also take the leave time in hours.   Instead of stopping work altogether I just worked half days.  That way, even though I was in pain, I was able keep on top of things at my job, keep my medical appointments and also go home after the four hours and get much needed rest to cope.

Just thought I'd pass that on.

Donna

Posted 10/24/2008 10:35 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks so much for the replies. I wish I could work parttime, but that is not an option for me. I am a middle school teacher and they do not ususally hire people parttime. Anyway, I am now staying at home on Short Term disability for now. My doctor did not tell me how long he wanted me to be out of work, so I guess we will discuss it in November at my next appt. Teaching is so stressful to me. Not having to constantly deal with students has been a great relief for me. Thanks again for all your replies.

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