You are considered disabled or partially disabled if, due to an injury or illness, all of the following apply:

The loss of a professional or occupational license or certification does not, by itself, constitute a disability.

To be considered disabled, you must be under the regular care of a physician. During the course of your leave, Lincoln may require that you be examined by a physician and/or vocational expert of their choice or you may be asked to interview with a Lincoln representative about the status of your disability. Examinations or interviews may be requested by Lincoln at any time and at any frequency.

If you are disabled but return to work on a part-time or limited duty basis during your disability, you'll continue to receive monthly payments from the plan. Your disability benefit will be reduced if the combination of work earnings and disability benefit exceed 100% of your pre-disability weekly earnings.

Special rules apply if you are eligible to receive STD benefits due to pregnancy. These rules differ depending on the delivery of your child.