Answers to your most common questions.

How much of my paycheck will Paycheck Protect replace?
Generally, the maximum allowed is 60%. However, it depends on the state your job and/or employer are in, as well as the plan you’re being offered. Check with your benefits representative to find out.

What is a maximum benefit period?
The maximum benefit period is the longest period of time we will continue paying you while you are still on an approved claim. For example, if your maximum benefit period is three months, and you are out of work for six months, we will pay you a benefit for three months following your elimination period. However, if you are only out of work for six weeks after your elimination period (see below), we will pay you for those six weeks, not the full three months. Check with your benefits representative to find out what you’re being offered.

What is an elimination period?
An elimination period is the amount of time you must be out of work for total disability before we can begin paying you. For example, if you have a seven-day elimination period, and you are on an approved claim for 30 days, we will pay you starting on the eighth day through the 30th day. Typically, employees will use their company’s Paid Time Off hours (if available) to cover the days that they aren’t working before Paycheck Protect kicks in. Elimination periods vary; check with your benefits representative to find out how long yours is.

How are my benefits affected by worker’s compensation?
It depends on your policy. If it includes “24-hour” or “on-the-job” benefits, you will receive 25% of your benefit in addition to what you are receiving from worker’s compensation. If your policy does not have “on-the-job” benefits, and you are receiving worker’s compensation because your disability occurred on the job, you will not receive any additional benefits from Paycheck Protect. If your worker’s comp claim is denied, though, you may be eligible for your full benefit for an approved Paycheck Protect claim.

How long will it take Trustmark to handle my claim?
We typically process Paycheck Protect claims within five business days, which includes the time we take to communicate with you to confirm our payment or ask you for more information.

What can I spend my benefits on?
Anything! We pay you directly, so you can use the money for anything you want, just like your normal paycheck.

Still need more details? Keep exploring this site, or get in touch with your benefits representative to get everything you need to make the right choice for you and your family.