What is Disability Insurance?

Disability (Income Replacement) Insurance at a Glance

Disability insurance (more appropriately called income replacement insurance) provides a monthly benefit payment to individuals when he or she is unable to perform the duties of his or her regular occupation due to an injury or illness and is not working elsewhere*

*assumes non-cancellable individual disability policy with regular occupation coverage. Definitions may be different on group plans and guaranteed renewable or conditionally renewable plans

Why You Need Disability Insurance

Most people recognize the need for home, automobile and even life insurance. But most don't recognize that their ability to work is their most valuable asset. In fact, disability strikes working people far more often than premature death. A disability can interrupt their cash flow, causing financial hardship. Government benefits likely won't pay enough, savings won’t last long, borrowing is likely not an option and liquidating assets should be a last resort. 

How do Disability Insurance Policies work?

Monthly benefit purchased is based on client’s net income

Premiums are calculated based on occupation class (your line of work), with lower risk occupations offered lower premiums

Benefit is paid after the stated elimination or waiting period, based on meeting the definition of disability in the contract

Waiting period can be 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 365 or 730 days

Benefit period can be 2 years, 5 years, 10 years or to age 65

Benefit amount is usually less than the individual’s working income, to provide an incentive to return to work

Definition of disability can be own occupation, regular occupation or any occupation

Regular occupation for 2 years, 5 years or to age 65

Some plans include partial or residual coverage

Waiver of premium is included

Benefits are received tax-free if premiums are paid with after-tax dollars