Disability Insurance Basics

The forgotten policy

Most working adults insure their car and their home but leave their paycheck — the engine behind every other plan — completely uninsured.

Short-term vs long-term

• Short-term disability typically covers 3 to 6 months of recovery
• Long-term disability kicks in when an injury or illness keeps you out of work for years

What to look for

• Definition of disability (own-occupation vs any-occupation)
• Benefit period (to age 65 is standard)
• Elimination period (waiting time before benefits begin)

Coverage is most affordable when you are young and healthy. Lock it in early.