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The Daily Insight

How long does it take for long-term disability to be approved?

Author

Emma Jordan

Published Feb 10, 2026

Typically it takes 2-3 months to get a response after sending in your initial application for long-term disability. However, this is a best-case scenario. Many things can delay your insurance company from approving you. Some of those are in your control, and others are in their control.

How long does it take for short term disability to start?

When do short-term disability benefits start? Once a claim is filed, there’s usually a short waiting period — the elimination period — of one to 14 days before an employee can begin collecting benefits from the policy. The waiting period will be specified in the policy terms during signup.

What does waiting period mean for short term disability?

elimination period
Short-term disability insurance provides cash benefits for workers who are temporarily unable to work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy. There is generally a waiting period (known as an “elimination period”) of a week or so between the occurrence of disability and the beginning of benefits.

What is the waiting period for a disability insurance policy?

Most short-term policies have a 30- to 90-day waiting period before coverage begins. Long-term disability waiting periods can range from 90 days to a full year. As with other insurance products, you are not eligible to receive any payments during the waiting period.

Why would long term disability be denied?

Long term disability (LTD) benefits are crucial for ensuring that you continue to receive income when you are disabled and cannot work. Your LTD claim can be denied due to missing medical records, legal technicalities, or conflicting evidence collected during your insurance company’s investigation of your claim.

What does processing mean for disability?

It means that they got your information that you sent to them and they are in the process of deciding whether or not you will be receiving benefits. If they need any other information regarding your case from you they will contact you. -Eric. rob (not verified)

How do I know if my SDI has been approved?

You can log in to your account to check the status of your DI claim at any time. For the status of your PFL claim, call 1-877-238-4373.

Can I go on vacation while on long term disability?

If you don’t return them or can’t be found, Long Term Disability carriers are going to start aggressively looking at your Long Term Disability claim. Nancy Cavey, an experienced nationwide Long Term Disability attorney tells her clients that it is okay to plan and take a vacation while receiving disability benefits.

Can you get long term disability for pre-existing conditions?

1. Pre-Existing Conditions Can Be Either Mental or Physical. As a cost-savings mechanism, most long-term disability plans exclude pre-existing conditions. Even though you didn’t have a clear diagnosis at the time you got coverage, the insurance company might deny your claim for disability insurance benefits.

How do I check if my EDD claim was approved?

You can also check on the status of your unemployment claim through the EDD’s automated, self-service telephone system at 1-866-333-4606. This phone line is open 24 hours a day.