Disability insurance will pay a portion of your income if you are unable to work for an extended period of time due to an injury or illness. There are two types of disability insurance: short-term disability insurance and long-term disability insurance. As the name implies, short-term disability insurance replaces much of your paycheck (up to 80%) for a short period of time—usually three to six months—and is often available through your employer as a free employment benefit or at low cost. And long-term disability insurance replaces some of your paycheck if you are unable to work for years or decades—sometimes until retirement. Long-term disability insurance is not often provided by employers—but you may purchase an individual policy. Because long-term disability insurance often does not pay enough to cover your expenses, some people purchase supplemental long-term disability insurance policies.

In Ohio, disability insurance is regulated at both the state and federal levels. Short-term disability insurance typically covers a significant portion of an individual's income for a temporary period, often ranging from three to six months. This type of insurance is frequently offered by employers in Ohio as a benefit, sometimes at no cost or for a low premium. Long-term disability insurance, on the other hand, provides income replacement for longer periods, potentially lasting for years or until retirement age. It is less common for employers to provide long-term disability insurance, so individuals in Ohio may choose to purchase it independently. Additionally, to address potential gaps in coverage, individuals can opt for supplemental long-term disability insurance policies. It's important to note that the specifics of coverage, including the percentage of income replaced and the duration of benefits, can vary based on the policy and the insurer. Ohioans considering disability insurance should review their policies carefully and may consult with an attorney to understand the terms and ensure adequate coverage.