How Coverage Works

CTA-endorsed Disability insurance from The Standard is designed especially for California educators and education support professionals. Here’s how it works:

  • Replaces up to 80% of your income (tax free) if you’re unable to work due to illness, injury, pregnancy or childbirth.1
  • Starts paying benefits after you are out of work for 7 consecutive workdays2 — including a $25 per workday benefit on top of your fully-paid sick leave.
  • Covers any preexisting conditions once you are enrolled and work for 10 consecutive workdays.
  • May qualify for additional benefits with no benefit waiting period including Student Loan Benefit, Cancer Benefit and Summer Benefit3 paid on top of any other disability benefits from The Standard.


 

Other Benefits

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Includes $50,000 AD&D coverage.

Hospital Benefit

Extra benefit of $35 per calendar day while you are confined to a hospital4 — with no benefit waiting period, paid in addition to any disability benefits.

Education Benefit

Assistance towards education costs for eligible dependents while you are out on disability.

Childcare Benefit

Assistance with childcare costs for eligible dependents for three years in the event you suffer an accidental death.

Return to Work Assistance

Assistance with returning to work, including rehabilitation planning and ergonomic modifications for your work-site, subject to prior approval.

Survivor Benefit

Your beneficiary will receive a flat rate of $25,000, not reduced by deductible income, in the event of your passing while you are eligible for disability benefits.

How Long Benefits Last

The number of years of credited service you have under the California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS) and/or the Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) will determine your maximum benefit period.

Years of ServiceMaximum Benefit Period
More than 5 yearsUp to two years following sick leave while you continue to be disabled.
Less than 5 yearsAfter the second benefit year, educators receive 50% of regular monthly contract salary, less deductible income, to at least age 65.

CTA Member Testimonial

I’ve been covered by the CTA-endorsed Disability plan since I started teaching many years ago. I applied knowing teachers didn't have State Disability coverage, but never really expected to make a claim. Much to my surprise, I have made no less than six claims, each lasting more than six months in duration.

When they say they go above and beyond - they mean it! I had a medical emergency at a conference. The representative from The Standard drove me to the emergency room and ensured that I was treated promptly despite my lack of ID or insurance card. As a young healthy teacher, I never thought I would need the policy; as an experienced educator with health conditions, I know I cannot work without it!
Michelle R.
Covina Unified Education Association

Ready to Apply?
CTA members can apply for coverage anytime with proof of good health.