Disability Insurance
Your earning power is your greatest asset on the path to FI. Disability insurance protects it if illness or injury keeps you from working.
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Short-Term vs Long-Term Disability
Short-Term Disability
- Covers first 3-6 months of disability
- Short waiting period (0-14 days typically)
- Often provided free by employers
- Replaces 60-70% of income only
- Doesn't protect against long-term career disruption
Best for: bridging the gap before long-term kicks in
Long-Term Disability
- Covers years of lost income (often to age 65)
- Critical protection for your FI timeline
- Own-occupation policies protect your specific career
- Individual policies are portable if you change jobs
- 90-180 day elimination period before benefits start
Best for: anyone whose income powers their FI journey
The ChooseFI take
Long-term disability insurance is arguably more important than life insurance — you're far more likely to become disabled during your working years than to die. If your income is fueling your FI journey, protect it. Look for own-occupation coverage with a benefit period to age 65. Your employer plan is a start, but it often only covers 60% of base salary and may not include bonuses.
Disability Insurance Guides
Guides on disability insurance, income protection, and how to keep your FI journey on track if you can't work.
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