Some disability plans include a Pre-Existing Condition clause which limits or excludes benefits if a claim is filed within a specified number of months after coverage starts and the claim is for a disability that is related to an illness or injury that the member had and was treated for before coverage began.

Most Pre-Existing Condition clauses expire after the member has been covered by the plan for 12 (or in some cases 24) months. The specific number of months for the Pre-Existing Condition clause is noted in the policy scheduled of benefits.