HRD > Benefits Administration Services

Disability Benefits

As a state of Ohio employee, you are eligible to apply for disability leave benefits. These medical benefits provide financial and emotional assistance to you and your family in the event that you are unable to perform the duties of your position due to a non-work-related disabling illness, injury or condition for a period of more than 14* consecutive calendar days. 

*Contract exceptions for length of waiting period - Attorney General, FOP 46 and FOP 48 - please refer to your contract.

The disability leave program is governed by the Ohio Revised Code, Ohio Administrative Code and, for bargaining unit employees, their bargaining unit contract.

Eligibility
To be eligible for disability benefits, all of the following must apply:

• You must be disabled and unable to perform the duties of your position for more than 14* consecutive calendar days.
  *Contract exceptions for length of waiting period - Attorney General, FOP 46 and FOP 48 - please refer to your contract.
• You must be a full-time permanent employee or a part-time permanent employee who has worked 1500 hours or more in the 12 months immediately prior to the disability.
• You must have completed one year of continuous state service immediately prior to the date of the disabling injury, illness or condition.
• Click here for what may not be covered.
  

1. Apply for disability leave
2. A decision is made
3. Payment period (if an approval is reached in Step 3)
4. Return to Work

What's Covered?

The following disabling illnesses, injuries or conditions may be considered for disability leave benefits:

• Non-work-related injury or illness
• Mental health conditions
• Substance abuse conditions (Note: An employee must be receiving ongoing treatment, which prevents the employee from working.)