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        Updated: December 14, 2022

        Short-Term Disability Insurance for Pregnancy

        Can short-term disability insurance cover you during pregnancy? Read out in-depth guide to find out more.

        Ask a quick question

        We can help! We know everyone's circumstances are different, that's why we work with brokers who are experts in short-term disability insurance. Ask us a question and we'll get the best expert to help.

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        Richard Angliss

        Author: Richard Angliss - Finance Expert

        Updated: November 20, 2019

        Nausea, unpredictable vomiting and backache can present real challenges that make working through a pregnancy seem near impossible at times.

        Some women experience debilitating symptoms which can be hard testing to endure, especially in instances where it isn’t possible to take any more sick leave.

        This is where short-term disability insurance – often referred to as income protection insurance – can help. But how does it work and can you take out a policy if you’re already pregnant?

        If you’re short on time and want to get specific advice for your own set of circumstances, skip the reading and talk to one of the expert financial advisors we work with.

        All the advisors we work with are independent experts with access to insurance providers across the entire market. They will be happy to answer all your questions and use their knowledge, experience and tools to help save you time, hassle and trouble by finding the right insurance policy with the best cover at the most competitive price available.

        Call 0808 189 0463 or make an enquiry for a free, no-obligation chat.

        How does short-term disability and pregnancy insurance work?

        Short-term disability insurance is a type of policy that financially covers you if you are unable to work for a short period of time. Many employers provide some type of short-term disability insurance, but any income paid in benefit may fall short of your regular monthly salary, so it’s worth considering extra protection.

        It can be a really useful solution for women if they are unable to work for short periods of time because of pregnancy or complications resulting from pregnancy.

        Each policy can vary but typical claims could include time taken off due to late-stage pregnancy, pregnancy complications, childbirth or longer periods of recovery.

        Speak to an expert today

        Does short-term disability insurance cover maternity leave?

        Yes, depending on the terms of the insurance agreement, some policies can also provide support throughout maternity leave.

        The typical timeframe that you are considered disabled during maternity leave, and therefore able to make a claim, can vary., The majority of insurance companies classify mothers as disabled for six weeks following the birth of a baby, if there were no complications. This time frame is often extended to eight weeks if a C-section is performed.

        There are a wide range of insurance providers that offer short-term disability insurance for pregnancy and each one will have pros and cons that can affect your ability to make a claim as well as the amount you receive.

        For example, one policy may provide financial benefits that equate to two-thirds of your salary while another may pay out less. Because of the differing terms and conditions between policies, you should always read the fine print of a short-term disability insurance contract before you sign.

        An independent advisor can clarify exactly what it is you would be covered for, helping you to find the best short-term disability insurance for maternity leave.

        When should I take out private short-term disability insurance?

        Taking out insurance while pregnant can result in higher premiums and, in some instances,  may result in a reduced amount of cover. For example, you may be covered for pregnancy-related illnesses after birth but not before.

        The majority of insurance providers who offer cover for short-term disability, require women to have taken out their policy ahead of becoming pregnant.

        This is often because pregnancy is deemed as a pre-existing condition and an applicant who is already pregnant is more likely to make a claim.

        Therefore, taking out a policy ahead of becoming pregnant can result in a greater choice of insurance companies to choose from and therefore a wider range of rates to compare.

        How to find private short-term disability insurance if you’re currently pregnant

        Some insurance providers can charge higher premiums to customers who sign up during the pregnancy because of the increased risk to them for having to pay out for a claim.

        However, with the help of an independent financial advisor, it may be possible to find a sufficient level of cover at an affordable price, even if you are currently pregnant.

        It’s important to have an experienced professional check the small print of your insurance contract ahead of signing. They will be able to highlight any terms that may be unfavourable and ensure you’re aren’t paying more than you have to for the cover you need.

        Comparing short-term disability insurance cover for pregnancy

        Before taking out any insurance product, it’s important to understand exactly what you’ll be covered for, and under what circumstances.

        The level of cover you get depends entirely on the terms of the policy you buy.

        Some questions to think about ahead of signing your agreement can include:

        • Does the benefit period match the amount of time you plan to take off?
        • Is the benefit amount enough for you and your family?
        • Does the policy include cover for private hospital stays?
        • Do you want your policy to include cover for postpartum psychosis or depression?
        • Is the cover affordable?

        How can I find the best short-term disability pregnancy insurance quotes?

        Planning for the birth and the recovery time needed to have a baby can be time-consuming, so it’s good to know that when it comes to the task of comparing insurance quotes, there are professionals who can do this for you.

        In fact, having an insurance advisor on your side can be financially beneficial too as they’ll already know the companies that can offer the best quotes. Because they have the tools and experience to know the best companies to go-to for the best levels of cover they can save you a whole heap of time, hassle and money.

        They’ll also take the time to understand exactly what you want from your policy and the level of cover you require. Knowing this can help them find you the best-matched policy for your needs.

        Contact an expert

        The advisors we work with have provided guidance that has helped hundreds of women find pregnancy and disability cover.

        If you’d like to know more about private short-term disability insurance and how it could help you throughout your pregnancy, birth and maternity leave, ask an expert or call 0808 189 0463.

        All calls are confidential and we only work with professional advisors with a proven track record for support and success.

        Ask a quick question

        We can help! We know everyone's circumstances are different, that's why we work with brokers who are experts in short-term disability insurance. Ask us a question and we'll get the best expert to help.

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        Richard Angliss

        Richard Angliss

        Finance Expert

        About the author

        Richard Angliss has made a career in financial services which stretches over 40 years.

        His early career was spent learning about the various financial products and applying them to prudent advice, working for one of the largest life assurance and investment firms. After that he joined the financial services arm of a very well-known firm providing independent advice to their 8 million customers.

        For the last 20 years he has been involved in building software solutions that help Advisers and clients work together to achieve good financial outcomes and helping to set up three independent advisory firms. He also has written many articles for financial services publications and provided commentary for newspaper journalists.

        At an early stage in his career he realised the great satisfaction that comes with being able to help people achieve their goals and protect their families. “Regulation of financial services has hugely impacted on ensuring people get appropriate advice. The issue these days is access to that advice and just as importantly regular reviews to make sure that everything stays on track”.

        With the growing development of online resources such as Online Money Advisor he sees a great future for people to access advice to make their pension and investment work harder for them.  Plus, of course, to ensure they have insurance products in place that will be required when unforeseen events happen.

        He knows getting that balance right is crucial to prudent financial planning and the wellbeing of individuals and their families.

        FCA Disclaimer

        *Based on our research, the content contained in this article is accurate as of the most recent time of writing. Lender criteria and policies change regularly so speak to one of the advisors we work with to confirm the most accurate up to date information. The information on the site is not tailored advice to each individual reader, and as such does not constitute financial advice. All advisors working with us are fully qualified to provide mortgage advice and work only for firms that are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. They will offer any advice specific to you and your needs.

        Some types of buy to let mortgages are not regulated by the FCA. Think carefully before securing other debts against your home. As a mortgage is secured against your home, it may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments on your mortgage. Equity released from your home will also be secured against it.