Promoted by pilot questions, our host, Certified Financial Planner™ and GA pilot, Tim Pope compares long-term disability (LTD) coverage for FedEx and UPS pilots, examining how each plan works and how they stack up across the industry. He breaks down union and core benefits, highlighting key differences in duration, tax treatment, monthly caps, waiting periods, and income offsets.

The episode also explores where both carriers fall short compared to passenger airlines, and what cargo pilots should keep in mind heading into contract negotiations.

What You'll Learn from This Episode

• UPS Disability Coverage: Core plan pays 66.7% of income for 10 months after a 6-month wait. Union add-ons are tax-free but capped at $7,500/month.
• FedEx Disability Structure: Core pays 60% for 24 months, then 50% via union coverage to age 65, capped by IRS 401(a)(17) limit.
• Lookback Advantage: FedEx uses the highest 12 of the last 36 months’ pay, protecting recent high earners.
• Offset Clauses: Both reduce benefits for worker’s comp or Social Security. FedEx also offsets if LTD plus side income exceeds prior pay.
• Tax Treatment Differences: Core plans are taxable; union benefits are tax-free due to after-tax premiums.
• What Could Improve: UPS could extend coverage and reduce wait times; FedEx could drop income caps and continue NECs during disability.
• Industry Context: Both lag behind major carriers on LTD duration and NEC continuation, as others move toward 17–18% NECs by 2026.
• Planning Note: Union LTDs and side income help, but knowing your offset rules and caps is critical.

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This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more.

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

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