Story at-a-glance Cheaper policies often cut key features that doctors need.Group and association plans look cheap but can change, end, or tax your benefit.Some low-cost individual plans cut corners on riders and definitions.Top carriers like Guardian, MassMutual, and Principal focus on
How to Review Your Disability Policy Each January
Story at-a-glance Check your policy each January to make sure it still fits your income and life.Compare your benefit to your income. If it’s under 60 percent, it needs a boost.Look at your riders like COLA, residual, and increase options.Review your job’s group plan and fill the gaps with
What Is Own-Occupation Disability Insurance and Why It Matters
Story at-a-glance Own-occupation coverage protects your specialty. You’re paid if you can’t perform your medical duties, even if you work elsewhere.It defines “disability” correctly. You’re covered based on the job you had when disabled, not any job you could do.Doctors and dentists need it
How to Protect Your Practice (for Self-Employed Doctors)
Story at-a-glance Your practice is your income engine. If you can’t work, both personal and business cash flow stop.Individual disability coverage protects your personal paycheck.Business Overhead Expense insurance keeps rent, staff, and bills paid while you recover.Buy-Sell and Loan
Life Insurance vs. Disability Insurance: What’s the Difference?
Story at-a-glanceBoth protect your income. Life insurance helps your family if you die; disability insurance protects your paycheck if you can’t work. Different payouts. Life pays a tax-free lump sum; disability pays monthly income replacement. Doctors need both. One protects your future, the
What Happens if I Change Specialties, Reduce Clinical Time, or Go Into Non-Clinical Work — Will My Policy Still Protect Me?
Story at-a-glanceYour policy follows you. It’s yours, not your employer’s. Claim = your job at that time. Coverage keys off the work you do when disabled. Going part-time? Benefit you bought stays. Switching specialties or non-clinical? You’re still protected. Look for: non-cancelable,
Should You Increase Your Disability Coverage for the New Year?
Story at-a-glanceYour income likely grew. If your benefit didn’t, you’re underinsured. Disability coverage should grow with your career. Check it annually. Use your Future Increase Rider. Boost benefits without a new exam. Review every January. Raises, kids, or loans change your needs. Protect
Is Disability Insurance Necessary Right Now, or Should I Wait Until I’m an Attending?
Story at-a-glanceWaiting costs you coverage and cash. Rates rise ~3% yearly; one health issue can block eligibility. Your income is your real asset. Disability insurance protects your $10M+ career earnings. Residents get lifetime savings. Lock in discounts and stronger coverage before you