How Temporary Disability In Wisconsin Works (2026)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
- Short-Term Disability in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin Short-Term Disability Laws and Eligibility
- Who Provides and Pays for STDI?
- How to Apply for Short-Term Disability
- Processing Time and What to Expect
- Temporary Disability Benefits and Wage Loss Under Workers’ Comp
- If Your Short-Term Disability Claim Is Denied
- When to Seek Legal Help
Summary
- If you suffer a work injury, you can receive temporary disability benefits
- You can receive short-term disability from workers’ comp or your own policy
- You have options if your claim is denied in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, if you sustain work-related injuries or illnesses and can’t perform your duties, you recover a percentage of your lost wages via temporary disability. Filing for these benefits can be complex, however, so having a Wisconsin personal injury lawyer helping you is vital. Learn more about how temporary disability in Wisconsin works.
Short-Term Disability in Wisconsin
Short-term disability insurance (STDI) covers your wages if you suffered a debilitating injury or illness. This is an additional bonus as part of your employer’s insurance and not required by law. Alternatively, you can receive it from your own privately purchased insurance.
Wisconsin Short-Term Disability Laws and Eligibility
Generally, short-term disability covers your salary for between three and six months. There isn't a state-mandated short-term disability program in Wisconsin, as there is in many other states, so you will need to provide a significant amount of evidence from medical professionals to prove that you sustained a disabling condition.
Who Provides and Pays for STDI?
Since short-term disability insurance is not mandated by the state, private companies pay to provide it, but your own policy may offer it as well.
How to Apply for Short-Term Disability
To receive temporary disability in Wisconsin, you will need to file either with your employer’s insurance or your own. Fill out the appropriate paperwork and give it to your doctor to complete. Once that’s done, you can submit it.
Processing Time and What to Expect
Your benefits may not begin right after your disability develops. Typically, you will have to wait between seven and 14 days after filing, during which you won’t receive income.
Temporary Disability Benefits and Wage Loss Under Workers’ Comp
With temporary disability as part of workers’ compensation, you receive a percentage of your monthly weekly wages. If you usually work overtime, that can be considered when calculating your average wage as well. It’s also important to note that you may still be eligible for temporary partial disability if you have been cleared for some work.
If Your Short-Term Disability Claim Is Denied
If your short-term disability claim is denied, you may be entitled to appeal. Insurance companies often search for any reason not to pay out the benefits you deserve, so working with an attorney can allow you to fight for fair compensation.
When to Seek Legal Help
If you’re not sure how to file for temporary disability in Wisconsin or your claim was denied, it’s time to hire an experienced attorney to assist you. At ConsumerShield, we can put you in contact with leading lawyers in your area who can guide you every step of the way. Fill out our form to get started today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. You can apply for long-term disability if you’ve been unable to work for at least six months. In most cases, you can receive the benefits until you retire or reach the age of 65.
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This can vary depending on the exact plan, but can range from 60% to 100%.
