How to File a Short-Term Disability (STD) Claim

If you experience an injury or illness that prevents you from working for three or more consecutive days, it is important to notify ACS HR as soon as possible and keep your manager informed of your status. Early communication helps ensure you receive timely support, protects job coverage where applicable, and allows us to start the disability claim process without delay.

1. Notify ACS HR Immediately

Employees must report any injury, illness, medical procedure, or condition expected to last longer than three days to ACS HR right away. Your manager should also be kept updated on your expected time away from work. Once HR is notified, we will provide you with guidance on next steps and share the official Short-Term Disability claim form.

2. Review the Short-Term Disability Program Summary

Attached to this article is a Short Term Disability Program Summary that outlines key details about your coverage, including:

• Eligibility requirements

• Weekly benefit amount

• Elimination periods for accidents and sickness

• Benefit payment durations

• Definition of disability and qualifying conditions

• Additional program features such as work incentives and rehabilitation support

This summary is provided by Principal Life Insurance Company and gives a clear overview of what to expect during the disability claim process.

3. Complete the Disability Claim Form

Also attached is the Principal Disability Claim Form, which contains three required sections:

1. Employee Section
   You will complete information about your condition, dates of leave, medical providers, and other relevant details.

2. Attending Physician Section
   Your licensed medical provider must complete this portion, including diagnosis codes, treatment notes, restrictions, expected recovery timeline, and certification of disability.

3. Employer Section
   After you and your physician have completed your parts, HR will complete the employer section that includes job details, salary information, and work status.

The claim form also includes important notices, authorization requirements, and instructions for submission.

4. Submit the Completed Form Securely

Once both you and your physician have completed your portions of the claim form, please upload the documents to HR using the secure link below:

Secure Upload Link: https://secure.assured-consulting.com/u/ewillett

After receiving your documents, HR will finalize the employer section and submit the full claim package to Principal for processing.

5. What to Expect After Submission

Principal may contact you, your provider, or ACS HR directly if any additional information is required. Claims are typically reviewed within several business days once all documents are received. If approved:

• Short-Term Disability benefits are paid weekly

• Payments begin after the applicable elimination period

• Principal may reach out to discuss recovery plans, return-to-work timelines, or accommodations

You will be notified directly by Principal of your claim decision and any follow-up steps.

Tips for a Smooth Claim Process

• Notify HR promptly to avoid delays

• Schedule timely visits with your physician, as medical documentation is required

• Respond quickly to any requests from Principal for additional information

• Keep copies of all forms submitted for your records

• Stay in regular communication with your manager about your expected return date

Need Assistance?

ACS HR is here to support you throughout the disability claim process. If you have questions about eligibility, benefits, form completion, or uploading documentation, please reach out to HR at any time.

ACS Human Resources

Phone: (703) 662-5062 x1

Email: hr@assured-consulting.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my claim is approved?

1. Principal will send you an approval letter that gives you an explanation of your benefits. You may also get a recorded call from Principal with this information.
   
2. Principal will coordinate payment of your benefits as soon as possible.
   
3. Principal will tell ACS that they approved your claim and the date you plan to return to work.
   

What happens if my claim is denied?

1. Principal will send you a letter that explains why. The letter will also tell you how you can appeal the decision.
   
2. Principal will let ACS know the claim is denied.
   
3. You should contact ACS HR (hr@assured-consulting.com) when you get the letter to discuss your return-to-work date.
   

What can I expect while I'm out?

What if I can't return to work on the date my disability benefits end?

1. Call your Principal claim manager to talk about the situation and learn about your options.
   
2. Let ACS HR know about your progress and status.
   

What should I do when it's time to return to work?