All guides

Every disability insurance guide we've published, grouped by topic. Pick the one that fits your situation.

Learn the basics of disability insurance

Disability insurance calculator See what your plan really pays after tax and how big your income gap is, right in your browser.
What is disability insurance? How it works, what it covers, the different types, and how to figure out if you need it.
Short-term disability insurance Coverage for weeks or months. How claims work, what it pays, and who qualifies.
Long-term disability insurance Policies that cover you for years or until retirement. How they work, what they cost, and who needs them.
Short-term vs. long-term disability The differences, when you need one or both, and how they work together.
Short-term disability and pregnancy The real math of what you get paid after elimination periods, concurrent benefits, and taxes.
Is long-term disability worth it? The honest math on when LTD makes sense, when it doesn't, and the claims reality nobody talks about.
Is disability insurance worth it? Real cost math, the ERISA trap, and when to buy, skip, or cancel your policy.
How long does short-term disability last? Real timelines by condition and state, the "60% of pay" lie, and what happens when STD runs out.
How long does long-term disability last? Benefit periods from 2 years to age 65, the anxiety trap, the 24-month cliff, and what actually ends your payments.
Do I need DI if my spouse works? The honest math behind the "my spouse makes enough" excuse. The caregiver income hit, divorce risk, and when you can actually skip it.
SSDI vs. private disability insurance How the two systems compare on eligibility, benefits, and timing. The offset math in real dollars and when you need both.
Disability insurance with pre-existing conditions What underwriters actually look at, the informal inquiry tactic, GSI workarounds, and how to get covered when you have a history.

Own-occupation and how policies differ

Disability insurance for your specific career

Coverage when there is no employer plan

What to do when things go wrong

What disability insurance costs and what your job already covers