Returning to Work
Transitioning from disability back to flying
Returning to Work
When you're ready to fly again, the main job is closing out SDI and LTD cleanly so you don't end up owing money back.
Get Cleared First
Before you can return, you need a valid FAA medical certificate — depending on your condition this may require a special issuance, so work with your AME early and allow time for processing. FedEx medical and flight operations then have their own clearance, and you'll need your training currency restored.
Notify EDD (SDI)
SDI stops when you return to work. Report your return on your certification and stop certifying for any period you're working — if you're not certifying, call EDD at 1-800-480-3287 to close the claim. Your last SDI payment covers through your last day of disability.
Notify Hartford (LTD)
Call your Hartford claims representative at 1-888-563-1124 with your claim number, give them your return date, and get the closure confirmed in writing. Hartford prorates your final LTD payment through your last day of disability.
Mind the Cash-Flow Gap
Your last disability payment covers through your last disabled day, but your first paycheck comes only after you've worked and been paid — plan for the gap.
Last day disabled: June 15
First day working: June 16
Last SDI payment: Covers through June 15
First paycheck: July 1 (for June 16–30 work)
For taxes, remember SDI is generally not taxable in California while LTD is taxable as income — talk to a tax professional about a year with both.
Partial or Gradual Return
SDI is built for full disability and has limited provisions for partial return; report any work to EDD. Hartford policies may include rehabilitation provisions, partial-disability benefits, or work-incentive programs — check your policy and discuss options with your claims representative before returning part-time.
If You Go Out Again
A new condition means a new SDI claim, with a fresh 49-day filing deadline from the new disability date, and possibly a new Hartford claim (pre-existing-condition provisions may apply). If the same condition recurs, it may count as the same claim or a new one depending on timing — keep all your medical records and confirm with both EDD and Hartford.