Disability Insurance
What is the elimination period in disability insurance?
The elimination period is the waiting period between when you become disabled and when benefits begin — like a deductible measured in time. Common periods: 90 days, 180 days, 365 days. Longer elimination period = lower premium but requires more savings to bridge the gap. Match your elimination period to your emergency fund.
Key Points
- The waiting period before disability benefits begin — measured in days
- Common periods: 90 days, 180 days, 365 days
- Longer elimination period = lower premium but requires more savings to bridge the gap
- 180-day period typically costs 20–30% less than 90-day
- Match your elimination period to your emergency fund
- Short-term disability insurance can cover the elimination period of a long-term policy