In fact there is a higher probability of a worker requiring disability protection before they retire than there is of them dying.

Unfortunately, this fact is often overlooked when life insurance coverage is being arranged. Those same statistics also provide the astonishing fact that a 40 year old worker has a greater chance of requiring three months or more off work owing to disability than they are of an early death before 65. Of course, when someone is seeking disability insurance cover, it is imperative to find the best rates and plans available.

Premiums are based on many characteristics like age, occupation, health and the calculations of potential lost income. One method of lowering the policy premium is arranging for the plan to 'kick in' only after the incapacity has lasted for a set period of time. with this in place there is less probability of the claimant making a claim. Some people find that by setting the plan to pay for only a set period of time, they can dramatically reduce the premiums they have to pay; with this arrangement the risk is placed squarely on the shoulders of the claimant who will need to find additional income if the incapacity period is long.

Whatever your situation though, common plans usually cover only a specific percentage of your original salary. Short term disability insurance income covers the first few months you are disabled but the benefits of short-term disability income insurance are many. If someone takes out total disability cover, which would provide a reduced financial income for a longer period, they will probably have to show proof that they could no longer perform tasks they could before the incapacitation.

Whatever the situation, a person making a claim owing to incapacitation will be sent a disability benefit check every month until the end of the plan or they return to work. Other key points to consider when looking into health policies are if there are restrictions on:

* Attitude towards pre-existing conditions

* Monthly benefit payment is taxable or tax free

* Time frames before benefits are terminated

* Are you employed in a high risk occupation?

The level of cover provided for your original salary will differ with each insurer's disability insurance policy. These percentages vary and payouts can be anywhere from 40 to 70 percent, so don't neglect this important detail. If maintaining your income is important then this issue, on its own, will determine which company you choose.