The SMART Voluntary Short Term Disability Plan (VSTD) has temporarily suspended the elimination period for COVID-19 disabilities. Previously, the waiver of the elimination period began in the month of March and extended through May of this year and then was once again extended until November 2020.
SMART, in conjunction with Southern Benefit Administrators, is pleased to announce that the waiver of the elimination period is being extended through February 28, 2021. Effective with all diagnosed COVID-19 disabilities beginning in the months of March 2020 through February 2021, the Plan’s elimination period will be waived. A member must usually be disabled for 21 days before benefits will begin on the 22nd day. With the waiver of the elimination period, members who have tested positive for COVID-19 will have earlier access to benefits.
The waiting period will be reinstated for COVID-19 disabilities beginning on or after March 1, 2021.
Click here for a pdf of this announcement.
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