While most people don’t think twice about purchasing auto, homeowners’ or even life insurance, they often fail to realize that their most valuable asset is their ability to earn an income. Suffering a disability for any length of time because of a sickness or injury could have devastating financial consequences for clients. Here are some insights into how real the risks are: At least 51 million working adults in the United States are without disability insurance other than the basic coverage available through Social Security. Only 48 percent of American adults indicate they have enough savings to cover three months
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Some consumers may have a disability income policy insurance through their employer, it’s important to ask them about how the policy would pay. Consider whether the policy’s monthly benefits would begin to pay benefits soon enough. Clients need to understand their existing coverage to help solve the protection gap. One solution is to supplement current employer coverage with an individual short-term disability income insurance. Short-term coverage can help pay monthly benefits sooner than an employer’s long-term disability insurance policy. And it can pay up until the time employer-sponsored benefits begin. As a producer, you can provide more complete income protection
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The taxation of disability income insurance is straightforward – especially in individual cases. However, surprises can occur if policies are set up incorrectly as unexpected taxation of a benefit reduces available funds at precisely the wrong time. Individual DI In terms of taxes, individual DI is rather clear cut. Premiums paid by individual policyholders are non-deductible as they are not considered an eligible medical expense on Schedule A. Also, benefits are not included as income and therefore not taxable. Employer-Paid DI In disability income cases where a business entity is involved, the tax implications are varied. Here are some common
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