How To Apply For Temporary Disability In Texas (2025)

Who Qualifies for Temporary Disability Benefits in Texas?

To qualify for temporary disability in Texas, you must have a documented medical condition or injury that prevents you from fulfilling your employment duties. You must have a certificate from a physician that states the problem is disabling.

You will also need to have enough work history. In most cases, you’ll have a waiting period that ranges from seven to 14 days.

How Much Income Replacement You Can Get Under TIBs or Short-Term Plans

Temporary income benefits (TIBs) provide about 70% of the difference between the average weekly wage you made before the disability and the wages you’re able to earn with the injury or illness. With short-term plans, you get 66% of your average weekly wages.

Duration of Temporary Disability Coverage in Texas

Temporary disability benefits you can get after suffering injuries or illnesses that prevent you from working can last for up to 26 months. The exact timeline you will have depends on numerous factors, including the severity of the condition or injury.

How to Apply for Temporary Disability in Texas

If you’re applying for short-term disability insurance through your employer, you’ll need to let them know you can’t work. You’ll then need to obtain the application forms and submit them to the insurance company that covers the benefits. If you’re enrolled in the Texas Income Protection Plan (TIPP), you must file a claim and wait for approval.

Key Differences Between Workers’ Comp TIBs vs. Private Short-Term Disability

Workers’ compensation temporary income benefits apply to those who were hurt or fell ill because of a work-related issue. Private short-term disability applies to any active employee, and the injury or illness does not have to be work-related.

What Happens When Temporary Disability Ends?

You will need to return to work once the temporary disability benefits end. If this occurs sooner than you expected and you’re still not well enough to work, you may need to turn to an attorney for assistance.

Resolving Temporary Disability Issues With Legal Help

At ConsumerShield, we can connect you with trusted attorneys in your area who can help you with temporary disability issues in Texas. Contact us to get started.