You’re in residency. You’re working crazy hours. You’re living on a tight budget. So it’s fair to ask:
“Do I really need disability insurance right now?”
The answer is simple: Yes. And the earlier, the better.
Here’s why.
1. Your Future Income Is Worth Protecting
Right now, you may not be earning much. But once you finish training, you’ll likely be making $200K–$500K+ per year depending on your specialty.
Over a 30-year career, that adds up to millions of dollars.
Disability insurance protects your ability to earn that income. If an illness or injury ever prevents you from working, your policy can pay you a monthly benefit to replace your lost income.
Bottom line: You’re not protecting your resident income. You’re protecting your future attending income.
2. You’re Young and Healthy—That’s When Rates Are Lowest
Disability insurance is based on two big things:
- Your age
- Your health
As a young resident, you can lock in low rates now that stay fixed for life. If you wait, you risk:
- Higher premiums as you age
- Being declined or limited if your health changes
- Missing out on discounts only offered in training
Many residents qualify for special training discounts that are not available once you’re out of residency.
3. Injury or Illness Can Happen to Anyone
You may feel invincible now, but disability doesn’t care how smart or driven you are. Illness, injury, or mental health issues can strike anyone.
Common reasons doctors file claims include:
- Accidents
- Back injuries
- Cancer
- Neurological issues
- Depression and burnout
And if you don’t already have coverage in place when something happens? It’s too late to get it.
4. You Get Special Rules That Favor You in Training
Many top insurance companies offer “guaranteed standard issue” (GSI) plans at certain hospitals and training programs. If GSI is available at your program, it means:
- No medical exam
- No bloodwork
- No health questions
- Guaranteed approval (even if you’ve had medical issues in the past)
But these plans are only available while you’re in training. Once you graduate, the window closes.
5. You Can Increase Your Coverage Later—Without Reapplying
When you get a policy as a resident, you can often add a future increase rider.
That lets you raise your benefit as your income grows—without having to reapply or prove you’re healthy.
It’s like locking the door behind you while the house is safe.
Final Thought
You’ve worked too hard to leave your future unprotected. Disability insurance may not feel urgent today—but if something goes wrong tomorrow, it could be the one thing that keeps your finances secure.
At DoctorDisability, we’ve helped thousands of residents find the right coverage—simple, affordable, and built to grow with your career.
Get your free quote today and protect the future you’ve worked so hard for.
Ready to protect your future?
Get a personalized side-by-side policy comparison of the leading disability insurance companies from an independent insurance broker.
