Disability insurance 101

Disability insurance 101: What you need to know

Disability insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection in the event that an individual becomes disabled and is unable to work. Disability insurance is designed to help individuals and their families cope with the financial consequences of a disability, which can include lost income, medical expenses, and other costs associated with living with a disability. 

Here is an overview of what you need to know about disability insurance: 

1. What is disability insurance? Disability insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial benefits to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability. Disability insurance can help individuals and their families cope with the financial consequences of a disability, which can include lost income, medical expenses, and other costs associated with living with a disability. 

2. Who can benefit from disability insurance? Anyone who relies on their ability to work and earn an income can benefit from disability insurance. This includes individuals who are working and earning a salary, as well as self-employed individuals and business owners. 

3. What types of disability insurance are available? There are several different types of disability insurance available, each of which offers different levels of coverage and protection. Some common types of disability insurance include: 

  1. Short-term disability insurance: Short-term disability insurance provides coverage for a limited period of time, typically 3 to 6 months. It is designed to provide financial protection in the event of a short-term disability that prevents an individual from working. It can be called Income Protection, Total and Temporary Disability or Salary Continuance. 
  2. Long-term disability insurance: Long-term disability insurance provides coverage for a longer period of time, typically 2 to 5 years or more. It is designed to provide financial protection in the event of a long-term disability that prevents an individual from working. 
  3. Group disability insurance: Group disability insurance is typically provided by an employer as part of a benefits package. It provides coverage to a group of individuals, such as employees of a company, and is usually less expensive than individual disability insurance policies. This is typically life or total and permanent disability insurance (TPD). 

4. How does disability insurance work? Disability insurance policies typically provide a percentage of an individual’s income in the event of a disability that prevents them from working. The percentage of income covered and the length of time for which benefits are paid can vary depending on the policy. Some disability insurance policies may also provide coverage for medical expenses and other costs associated with a disability. 

5. What factors should I consider when purchasing disability insurance? When purchasing disability insurance, it is important to consider your personal circumstances and financial needs. Some factors to consider may include your age, occupation, income, and overall health. It is also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy, including the exclusions and limitations, to ensure that it meets your needs and provides the right level of protection. 

Can I make a claim?

Know your rights.

If you are yet to make a disability insurance claim like income protection or TPD, you are entitled to legal representation and Littles can help you. 

If you have already lodged a claim and it has been rejected by a superannuation fund or insurer, you may be entitled to have the decision reviewed through an internal resolution procedure. 

If your complaint has been upheld, you may be able to litigate in a court or lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).

There are strict time limits to challenge an insurer’s decision, so it’s important you seek legal advice as soon as possible.

What is the Littles difference?

Put simply, Littles are experts in superannuation and insurance law matters. 

Our insurance team has helped thousands of consumers claim their entitlements, and our Head of TPD and General Insurance has extensive industry knowledge and insight on how to maximise your prospects of success. 

We also speak your language, at sixteen languages and counting.  Forget paying for a translator or for a lawyer who doesn’t understand you and your cultural background. 

All our superannuation and insurance law matters are conducted on a no win, no fee basis, and we don’t charge you upfront for any disbursements necessary to prosecute your claim.  

If you would like superannuation and insurance law advice, reach out to Littles today by using our free Claim Checker

About the author

Littles’ Head of TPD and General Insurance, Rowan McDonald, is an expert in insurance and superannuation law.  Rowan is an experienced litigator and has prosecuted thousands of successful insurance claims for consumers. 

Having worked in the insurance industry for over fifteen years, Rowan has an extensive industry contact list and regularly presents to disability support groups, financial industry professionals and multicultural organisations. 

Rowan has also advised some of Australia’s top insurers, giving him unrivalled insight into the claim process from all perspectives.  Rowan takes a pragmatic and common-sense approach to the advice he provides his clients. 

For your free, personal consultation get in touch with Rowan today.  

Like? Share it with your friends.

Contact the Author

Topics

More Articles