What factors should I consider before buying private disability insurance?
First of all, we’re talking long-term here. For short-term needs, you are better off funneling pricey premium payments into a liquid emergency fund. That way, if you never need it, it’s your money!
On to long-term… As is the case with life insurance, there are two basic types of disability insurance: group (obtained through work or membership in an organization) and private (purchased on your own). Unlike life insurance, however, private disability insurance is almost always more expensive than group, often significantly so.
So, if you carefully examine your employer’s plan and decide you need more disability coverage, start by looking in your own back yard. Some employer plans allow you to buy additional coverage — often a boost from 60% to 80% of your salary — through the same group plan, at bargain rates. Also, if you are a member of any groups, clubs, or professional associations, check those sources too.