Long Term Disability Benefits In Massachusetts For Teachers

Teaching might be a relatively risk-free profession but it does not mean that you are safe from any accident while performing your work. Fortunately, some states have a specific long-term disability benefit for teachers, and one of these is the state of Massachusetts.

Types of Disability Benefits

Long term disability benefits in Massachusetts are given in two forms – as accidental disability benefits, or as ordinary disability benefits. While both carry the condition that your disability is keeping you from performing specific duties of your job, the former requires that the injury is caused by an accident in the line of work, while the latter does carry such requirement. Qualified individuals, however, may opt to apply for both benefit.

Now, while long term disability benefits are typically given to current employees, the long-term disability benefits for teachers might be used even by those who are already retired. Aside from the disability benefit, they can also enjoy a retirement allowance.

Approval of Disability Benefits

Applying for the disability benefit is very easy. All you have to do is fill out an application form and send it to the board. Once received, the board would start securing your hospital and insurance records as well as review your case.

You have to keep in mind that the long term disability for teachers is monitored by the Massachusetts Teachers’ Retirement System. That being the case, it would be the board who would approve or deny your application although they would be guided by legal standards. In assessing your condition, the board would generally seek the professional opinion of three physicians. Generally, you would be required to appear before them, except if you are only applying for an ordinary disability benefit.