Expecting a baby? congratulations! You may not know it, but disability insurance offers valuable financial benefits for expectant parents. In the event that you become unable to work during or after your pregnancy, here are some ways that disability insurance can help:
Income Replacement
Disability insurance will typically provides a portion of income if you’re unable to work because of your pregnancy. This can help you pay bills and cover essential expenses like rent, mortgage, groceries, and medical bills.
Maternity Leave
In some cases, disability insurance can help provide partial income replacement during maternity leave. This can help you take the needed time to recover and bond with your newborn, without the stress of losing all of your income.
Medical Expenses
Pregnancy and childbirth can sometimes involve unexpected health issues that require medical treatment or hospitalization. Disability insurance can help cover those medical costs.
Childcare Expenses
After your child is born, if a disability limits your ability to care for your baby, disability insurance can help cover childcare costs.
Peace of Mind
With the excitement and the stresses of pregnancy ahead, having disability insurance can reduce financial worries and let you focus on your health, your new baby’s well-being, and your family’s needs.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Disability
You’ll want to understand the coverage of your disability insurance policy. Short-term disability insurance – the most common plan – typically covers shorter-duration disabilities such as pregnancy complications. Long-term insurance is designed for more serious and extended periods of disability.
Make Sure You Have Disability Insurance
Disability insurance is a proactive measure, so it’s typically a good idea to have coverage before you become pregnant. Ask your employer if you have disability insurance, and if you do, it’s a good idea to review your policy’s coverages and limits.
Other Financial Protections
In addition to disability insurance, many states require employers to provide paid maternity leave. The U.S. Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for specific family and medical reasons. Also, be sure to ask if your employer provides additional maternity leave benefits beyond what is legally required.
To learn more about income protection, visit RealityCheckup.info, which is part of a CDA consumer outreach program to help working adults understand the importance of having alternate sources of income for times when they cannot work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy.
