For how long must a person be disabled before Disability Benefits can start?

Disability benefits are typically subject to a waiting period known as an "elimination period," which is the time that must elapse after a disability begins before benefits kick in. For many insurance policies, especially those related to Social Security and certain types of private disability insurance, a standard waiting period is often set at five months. This means that an individual must be unable to work due to a qualifying disability for five full months before they begin receiving any benefits.

Understanding this waiting period is crucial for policyholders, as it directly affects their financial preparedness during that time of disability. While some policies may offer shorter waiting periods or immediate coverage, the five-month mark is a common threshold in many plans, which helps to ensure that only those with lasting disabilities receive benefits and that plans remain financially viable. Therefore, the correct answer reflects this standard approach in disability insurance practices.