FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Policies with true own-occupation definitions are often preferred because they allow doctors to receive benefits if they cannot perform the duties of their specialty.

Yes. Residents should consider disability insurance early to lock in lower premiums and may gain access to guaranteed standard issue programs and discounts.

With true own-occupation coverage, physicians may receive benefits even if they work in another role outside their specialty.

Many physicians purchase disability insurance during residency or fellowship before income increases and while they may qualify discounts and access to guaranteed issue programs.

Own-occupation disability insurance pays benefits if a physician cannot perform the duties of their medical specialty. Any-occupation policies only pay if the individual cannot work in any job they are reasonably qualified for, which provides much less protection.

Most physicians insure 60–70% of their income with disability insurance. Coverage amounts depend on income, specialty, and existing employer benefits.

Benefits are typically tax-free if the premiums are paid with after-tax dollars. If premiums are paid with pre-tax dollars, benefits may be taxable.

Yes. Many insurers classify physicians by specialty when determining premiums and eligibility. Specialties with higher procedural risk may have different pricing.

Employer-provided disability insurance often covers only 40–60% of income (or less with monthly benefits caps, and may be taxable if paid by employer. Many physicians supplement group coverage with an individual disability insurance policy.

With true own-occupation coverage, benefits are based on the specialty practiced at the time disability occurs, protecting physicians even if they later change roles.

Many policies include a future increase option rider, allowing physicians to increase coverage as their income grows without additional medical underwriting.

Partial disability benefits provide income replacement when a physician can still work but experiences a loss of income due to illness or injury.

Benefit periods commonly extend to age 65 or 67, depending on the policy selected.

The elimination period is the waiting period before benefits begin, typically 90 days for physician disability insurance policies.

Yes. Individual disability insurance policies are often ideal for self-employed physicians and private practice owners because coverage is portable and not tied to an employer.