1199 Disability Payments Are Set by Your Union Contract, Not by Federal Law

1199 is the Service Employees International Union local that covers hospital workers, nursing home staff, and home care aides in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. If you are a member and become unable to work due to illness or injury, your disability pay comes from a union-negotiated benefit plan, not from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The weekly amount you receive depends on which contract covers your employer and when that contract was negotiated. There is no single 1199 disability payment — different hospitals, nursing homes, and home care agencies have different benefit structures. Some members receive partial wage replacement (a percentage of your normal pay), while others receive a flat weekly amount.

To find your exact weekly payment, you need to check your union contract or contact your union representative directly. The amount is printed in the contract document your employer gave you when you were hired, or you can request it from your union local's benefits office.

Key Takeaways

  • 1199 disability pay is negotiated by union contract, so the weekly amount varies by employer and contract year.
  • You must be a current 1199 member with an active union card to receive these benefits.
  • Your union representative or benefits office can tell you the exact weekly amount for your specific contract and employer.
  • 1199 disability benefits are separate from SSDI and do not affect your ability to file for federal disability benefits.
  • You typically must be unable to work for a waiting period (often 7 to 14 days) before benefits begin.

How to Find Your Specific Weekly Payment Amount

The fastest way is to call your union local's benefits hotline or visit the 1199 office nearest you. Have your union card or employee ID number ready. The representative will tell you the weekly amount based on your contract and your length of service (some contracts pay more after you have worked a certain number of years).

If you no longer have your contract document, you can also ask your employer's human resources or payroll department. They have a copy of the contract that covers your position and can point you to the disability section. The contract will list the weekly benefit amount, the waiting period before it starts, and how long you can receive it.

Some 1199 contracts also include a union benefits website or mobile app where members can log in and see their benefit details. Check any materials you received when you joined the union to see if this is available to you.

Waiting Periods and How Long Benefits Last

Most 1199 disability plans require you to be unable to work for a set number of days before the benefit begins. This is called the waiting period or elimination period. Common waiting periods are 7 days, 14 days, or 30 days, depending on your contract. During this time, you receive no payment.

Once the waiting period ends, the weekly benefit begins. How long you can collect it also depends on your contract. Some plans pay for 26 weeks (about 6 months), others for 52 weeks (one year), and some continue longer if you remain unable to work. A few contracts tie the benefit length to your years of service — longer-tenured members may receive longer benefit periods.

You will need to provide medical documentation to your union benefits office to prove you are unable to work. This usually means a letter from your doctor stating the condition, when it started, and when you are expected to return to work (if known).

1199 Disability and SSDI Are Separate Programs

Receiving 1199 disability pay does not prevent you from filing for SSDI. The two programs operate independently. However, if you later receive SSDI, some 1199 contracts include an offset clause — meaning your union disability payment is reduced by the amount of SSDI you receive, or it stops altogether once SSDI begins.

Check your contract or ask your union representative whether an offset applies to you. If it does, you may want to understand the timing: SSDI can take several months to approve, so you might receive full 1199 benefits for a while before any offset kicks in.

If you are considering filing for SSDI, inform your union benefits office. They need to know about any other disability income you are receiving or pursuing, and they can explain how it affects your 1199 benefits.

What Happens If You Return to Work Before Benefits End

If you recover and return to work before your benefit period ends, your 1199 disability payments stop. You do not receive a lump sum for unused weeks. Some contracts allow you to return to work part-time and receive a reduced benefit, but this varies — ask your union representative whether this option exists in your contract.

If you return to work and then become unable to work again within a short time (often 30 to 90 days, depending on the contract), you may be able to restart benefits without serving another waiting period. This is called reinstatement. Again, the rules depend on your specific contract.

Reporting Requirements While Receiving Benefits

While you are on 1199 disability, you are usually required to report your status to the union benefits office at regular intervals — often monthly or quarterly. You may need to submit updated medical documentation or a form stating that you remain unable to work.

If you begin working, even part-time or for a different employer, you must report this when ready. Failing to report can result in loss of benefits or a demand to repay what you received. The union takes this seriously because the benefit fund is paid into by all members' dues.

If Your Claim Is Denied

If your union benefits office denies your disability claim, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process is outlined in your union contract. Typically, you submit additional medical evidence and a written explanation of why you believe you should receive benefits. An appeals committee (usually made up of union members and employer representatives) reviews your case.

The timeline for an appeal varies, but most unions aim to decide within 30 to 60 days of receiving your appeal. If the appeal is denied, some contracts allow a second level of appeal or arbitration. Your union representative can walk you through the steps for your specific contract.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work another job while receiving 1199 disability?

No. Most 1199 contracts define disability as being unable to work at any job. If you work for another employer, even part-time, you must report it and your benefits will likely stop. Some contracts allow limited part-time work with union permission, but this is rare.

What if I move out of state?

1199 operates in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. If you move outside these states, your union membership and benefits may be affected. Contact your union local to understand how a move impacts your disability coverage and whether you can maintain membership.

Do I have to pay taxes on 1199 disability payments?

Yes, in most cases. 1199 disability benefits are taxable income. You will receive a 1099 form at tax time reporting what you received. Consult a tax professional about your specific situation, as some circumstances may differ.

Can I receive 1199 disability and workers' compensation at the same time?

This depends on your contract and the nature of your injury. If your disability is work-related, workers' compensation may explore instead of union disability benefits. If it is non-work-related, you may receive both, but one may offset the other. Ask your union representative and your employer's workers' compensation contact to clarify.

What if I disagree with the weekly amount I was told?

Request a copy of your contract in writing from your union local. The contract is a legal document and must be provided to you. If there is a discrepancy, your union representative can explain the calculation and resolve any errors.