The correct answer is that the typical benefit period for short-term disability group plans is usually less than 2 years. These plans are designed to provide temporary income replacement for employees who are unable to work due to a non-work-related illness or injury. The benefit period generally spans from a few weeks up to a maximum of 24 months, depending on the specific plan.
Short-term disability benefits are not intended to cover long-term conditions or disabilities. Plans are structured to assist employees while they recover from their conditions or while they transition back into the workforce. If a disability lasts longer than the specified benefit period, employees may need to rely on long-term disability insurance or other benefits to support them.
The other options suggest longer durations for benefit periods, which are typically associated with long-term disability plans. Thus, while these may cover extended periods for significant disabilities, they do not reflect the nature and intent of short-term disability group plans.