Does USPS Offer Short-Term Disability? What You Need to Know

Working for the United States Postal Service (USPS) comes with great benefits, but what happens if you get sick or injured and can’t work? Many employees wonder if USPS offers short-term disability to cover their lost income. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.

What Is Short-Term Disability?

Short-term disability (STD) is an insurance plan that provides temporary income replacement if you can’t work due to illness, injury, or surgery. It typically covers a few weeks to six months and pays a portion of your salary while you recover.

But here’s the big question:
Does USPS offer short-term disability?

Does USPS Provide Short-Term Disability?

No, USPS does not provide a standard short-term disability plan like private employers. Instead, USPS employees rely on sick leave, annual leave, and other federal benefits to cover income loss.

However, some postal unions and third-party insurance providers offer voluntary short-term disability coverage that employees can purchase.

How Can USPS Employees Get Short-Term Disability Coverage?

Since USPS doesn’t automatically provide STD, here are three ways employees can get coverage:

1. Use Accrued Sick Leave and Annual Leave

USPS employees earn sick leave and annual leave that can be used if they become disabled.

• Sick Leave: Accrued at 4 hours per pay period (13 days per year for full-time employees).
• Annual Leave: Earned based on years of service and can be used as paid time off.

2. Apply for Federal Employee Disability Programs

While USPS does not offer standard STD, employees may qualify for:

• Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP): Covers job-related injuries.
• FERS Disability Retirement: Available if you have a long-term disability and meet specific service requirements.

3. Enroll in Private or Union Short-Term Disability Plans

Several postal unions and private insurers offer voluntary short-term disability policies, including:

• National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) Disability Insurance
• American Postal Workers Union (APWU) Voluntary Benefits Plan
• National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association (NRLCA) Disability Plan

These plans offer coverage for non-job-related injuries and illnesses when sick leave runs out.

What Do Short-Term Disability Plans Cover?

Most private or union-provided STD plans cover:

✅ Illnesses like pneumonia, COVID-19, or severe flu
✅ Injuries like broken bones from accidents outside of work
✅ Surgeries that require time off for recovery
✅ Pregnancy and childbirth (if covered by the policy)

How Much Does Short-Term Disability Pay?

The amount varies by plan, but most pay:

• 50% to 70% of your salary
• Benefits last 3 to 6 months
• A waiting period of 7 to 30 days before payments begin

How to Apply for Short-Term Disability

If you’re interested in a short-term disability plan, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Your Union Benefits

Contact your postal union or HR department to see if you are eligible for voluntary disability insurance.

Step 2: Compare Private Plans

Look at private insurance providers that offer USPS-approved coverage. Compare:

• Monthly premiums
• Percentage of salary covered
• Waiting period before benefits start

Step 3: Apply Before You Need It

Short-term disability insurance must be purchased before you get sick or injured. Most plans do not cover pre-existing conditions.

Key Takeaways for USPS Employees

• USPS does NOT provide standard short-term disability
• You can use sick leave, annual leave, and OWCP for job-related injuries
• Union disability plans and private insurance are options
• Benefits typically cover 50-70% of salary for up to 6 months
• Apply before you need coverage to avoid being denied
• Final Thoughts: Protect Your Income

Short-term disability is a lifesaver if you ever face an unexpected illness or injury. Since USPS does not offer this benefit, it’s smart to explore other options before you need them.

Need help figuring out your best disability coverage options? Check with your postal union or explore private disability insurance plans today!

Take the first step today. Visit the Postal Disability Coverage website or contact The Benefit Coordinators to learn more about your options.