May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month
When we think about insurance, most people focus on health, auto, or life coverage. But what if you couldn’t work for months—or longer—due to an illness or injury? How would you pay your bills?
That’s where disability insurance comes in.
What Is Disability Insurance?
Disability insurance is designed to replace a portion of your income if you become unable to work due to a disability. This can include anything from a serious illness to an unexpected injury. It’s not just for catastrophic accidents — even common medical conditions like back injuries, heart disease, or cancer can keep you out of work for an extended period.
Why It Matters
May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month, a perfect time to shine a light on this often-overlooked coverage.
Here are some quick facts:
1 in 4 people in their 20s today will experience a disabling condition before they retire.
The average long-term disability claim lasts 34.6 months.
Most Americans don’t have enough emergency savings to cover even three months of lost income.
Despite these risks, many working adults don’t have disability insurance—or aren’t sure if they do.
Types of Disability Insurance
There are two main types:
Short-Term Disability Insurance: Covers temporary disabilities and typically lasts 3–6 months.
Long-Term Disability Insurance: Kicks in after a waiting period and can provide coverage for several years or until retirement.
Both are crucial depending on your financial situation and support network.
How to Get Covered
Disability insurance may be available through:
Your employer’s benefits package
A private policy tailored to your profession and income
Professional associations or unions
Now is the time to review your current coverage, understand the fine print, and speak with a licensed insurance advisor if you need help.
Final Thoughts
Your income is your most valuable asset. You insure your car and your home — why not your paycheck?
This May, take a proactive step toward protecting your financial future. Disability insurance isn't just a safety net — it's peace of mind when life takes an unexpected turn.
