Disability Insurance and Your Family: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Life has a way of throwing curveballs. One day everything is running smoothly, work, family, finances, and the next, an unexpected illness or injury can change it all. At Northern Insuring, we believe in protecting what matters most. That’s why we’re shedding light on an often-overlooked type of coverage: disability insurance.

If you're the primary earner in your household, your income likely plays a crucial role in covering your family’s everyday living expenses and maintaining financial stability. Disability insurance helps replace your income if you become unable to work due to a covered medical condition, making it an essential layer of protection for your family’s financial well-being.

What Is Disability Insurance?

Disability insurance is designed to provide income replacement when you’re unable to work due to injury or illness. It can be short-term (typically covering 3 to 6 months) or long-term (covering several years or even until retirement age). The idea is simple: if your body can’t work, your policy can.

This type of coverage helps you stay on top of everyday expenses—so your family can maintain stability during an uncertain time.

Why It’s Important for Families

Your Income Supports More Than Just You

If your family relies on your paycheck to stay afloat, a temporary or long-term disability could quickly lead to financial stress. Disability insurance can act as a safety net, ensuring your household can continue to pay for essentials like:

• Rent or mortgage

• Childcare and school expenses

• Groceries and utilities

• Medical bills and ongoing care

Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Lost Income

Many people assume if they’re covered by health insurance, they’re financially protected. But while health insurance helps pay medical bills, it won’t cover your monthly expenses if you're unable to work. Disability insurance is able to help fill that gap.

It’s More Common Than You Think

According to the Social Security Administration, 1 in 4 of today’s 20 year-olds will experience a disabling condition before reaching retirement age. It’s not just high-risk jobs, either—disabilities can result from back injuries, cancer, heart disease, or even mental health conditions.

What to Consider When Choosing a Policy

Not all disability insurance policies are the same. Here are a few things to look at:

• How much income does it replace? Most policies cover about 50% to 70% of your income.

• How long is the waiting period? This is the time between when you’re injured and when benefits begin.

• How long does it pay out? Some policies offer short-term coverage, while others may extend until retirement.

"Almost all employers in New York State are required to offer short-term disability benefits (NYS DBL) which pays $170/week for 26 weeks. This may not be enough income in the event of a disability. Let us help to see if an additional short-term or long-term disability policy is right for you!" - Kristi Johnson, REBC

However, that benefit cap—unchanged since 1989—doesn’t come close to meeting today’s cost of living. When you factor in rent or mortgage payments, groceries, utilities, and medical expenses, $170 per week is often not enough to sustain a household. Many workers are left facing difficult financial choices during an already stressful time of recovery.

This is where private disability insurance becomes essential. Whether it’s short-term or long-term, these policies can replace a larger percentage of your income—typically ~60–70%— giving you greater financial security and peace of mind when you’re unable to work.

Let’s Protect Your Most Valuable Asset: Your Ability to Earn

Your ability to earn an income is one of your greatest assets. Disability insurance helps protect that asset—so your family can stay financially stable, even when life doesn’t go according to plan.

We understand insurance can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it clear, understandable, and valuable. When you work with Northern Insuring, you’re not just buying a policy—you’re gaining a partner who puts your family's future first.

Get Help When You Need It

Need help? Contact the team at Northern Insuring Agency. Our professionals are eager to assist you. They can help you identify which personal insurance policy is the best option.

In today's ever-changing world, having the right coverage is more important than ever.

Get in touch today for a quote! Northern Insuring will simplify the complicated world of insurance.