Which of the following best describes long-term disability insurance?

Long-term disability insurance is designed to provide financial support to employees who are unable to work for an extended period due to illness or injury. The correct characterization is that it pays a percentage of an employee's salary after a waiting period. This waiting period is often defined as the time between when a disability occurs and when benefits begin; this delay helps ensure that the insurance serves its intended purpose of providing support during longer-term incapacities rather than short-term issues.

The typical structure of long-term disability policies involves a commitment to provide ongoing financial assistance, usually set at a specified percentage of the employee's pre-disability income, which helps to replace lost earnings over time. This arrangement supports employees in maintaining their financial obligations while they recover or adjust to their situation.

In contrast, other options do not align with the fundamental aspects of long-term disability insurance. For instance, coverage for only temporary layoffs or restrictions based on age do not reflect the broader applicability of these policies, which are intended for anyone who qualifies under the terms of the insurance regardless of age, employment situation, or an immediate need for aid. Also, most policies do include an initial waiting period, contradicting the idea that payments can start immediately. Thus, the characteristics of long-term disability insurance clearly fit the