Short-term disability (STD) are benefits that carry from the date of onset of diability and the application for long-term disability. STD is often offered through group employer plans. Short-term disability is meant to carry you through the elimination period. Common elimination periods are 30, 60, 90 and 120 days. After the elimination period is over, the claimant would then apply for long-term disability. STD policies are usually paid for by the employer and cover income replacement for the first 120 days of injury or illness.