Florida Dental Association (FDA) members now have access to a short-term disability benefit offered through Allstate Benefits from FDA Services and BuddyIns, specialists in worksite benefits. This benefit offers coverage when many are waiting for long-term disability insurance to kick in.
When we think about insurance, we often focus on protecting our possessions — our homes, cars and personal belongings. But what about the asset that makes all those things possible? Your income is likely your most valuable financial resource, yet it’s frequently unprotected.
Consider this sobering fact: More than one in four of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled before they retire. That’s not a typo — 25% of young professionals will face a situation where they cannot work due to injury or illness.
“It Won’t Happen to Me”
Like most of us, you may think disability is something that happens to other people. The reality is that everyday situations can lead to extended absences from work:
- A fall from a ladder while painting your home
- Back injuries that require surgery
- Pregnancy complications
- Recovery from unexpected illness
Take Sarah’s story as an example. A young professional who considered herself healthy and active, Sarah never expected to be sidelined by an automobile accident. She immediately experienced sharp back pain that led to a diagnosis of a torn disc. Surgery and a six-eight week recovery period followed, a time during which her regular income stopped completely.
Can you absorb that financial loss?
How Disability Insurance Works
Disability insurance provides a monthly benefit when you cannot work due to a covered injury or illness. It’s designed to replace a portion of your income, helping you maintain financial stability during recovery.
Key features to understand:
- You choose your monthly benefit amount based on your needs.
- Benefits begin after a waiting period (elimination period).
- Premiums are typically affordable when obtained through association group plans.
- You can take the coverage with you if you change jobs.
Especially Important for Women
For women professionals, disability insurance deserves special consideration. Women are more likely to experience disability during their working years than men, partly due to pregnancy and related complications. Women often shoulder more financial responsibility for household management and family care, making income disruption particularly challenging.
Taking Action
Review your current financial situation. Could you maintain your standard of living for three to six months without your income? What about longer? If the answer makes you uncomfortable, it’s time to consider disability insurance.
Remember, insurance isn’t about planning for what you know will happen — it’s about protecting yourself from what could happen. Your ability to earn an income is worth protecting.
For more information, visit our Disability Benefit page or call Jamie Idol at 80.350.7142.
Beyond the Bite 