Group Disability: How Remote Work Is Changing Disability Insurance Needs

Group disability insurance is designed to provide income protection for employees who are unable to work due to illness or injury. Traditionally, these policies have been structured around in-office roles and standard job duties. However, with a growing number of employees working from home or in hybrid settings, new considerations are emerging:

• Evolving job duties—Remote work can change the physical and mental demands of a job. For example, employees may face different ergonomic risks or experience new stressors related to isolation or work-life balance.
• Location flexibility—Employees may now work from various locations, including out-of-state or even internationally. This can impact eligibility, coverage limits, and compliance with New York disability regulations.
• Claims and documentation—Verifying a disability claim may look different when employees are not physically present in the workplace. Employers may need to update their processes for documenting job duties and supporting claims.

Key Considerations for New York Employers

As you review your group disability insurance in light of remote work trends, consider the following:

• Policy definitions—Make sure your policy accurately reflects the current roles and responsibilities of remote employees.
• State compliance—New York has specific requirements for disability coverage. If your workforce is now more geographically dispersed, you may need to coordinate coverage across multiple jurisdictions.
• Communication—Clearly explain disability benefits to remote employees so they understand their coverage and how to access support if needed.

How Our Team Can Help

At United Benefit Solutions, LLC, we understand the challenges New York businesses face as they adapt to remote and flexible work environments. Our team can help you review your current group disability insurance, identify potential gaps, and tailor your benefits to meet the evolving needs of your workforce.

Contact us today to discuss your options and keep your benefits in pace with your organization’s needs.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.