Common Disability Income Insurance Myths and Misconceptions

There are many common myths and misconceptions about disability income insurance (DI) that can make it difficult to understand how coverage works. Learning the facts can help individuals make more informed decisions when evaluating income protection options.

young man having his knee examined by a doctor

Overcoming DI Myths

When you learn the truth about DI myths, you have a better understanding of income protection and how it could fit into your financial future.

MYTH 1
I don’t need DI.

Workers’ compensation typically covers medical bills and some lost wages if you experience a work-related accident or illness. DI covers you 24/7, on or off the job, not just when you’re working.

DI can help you maintain an income if an illness or injury stops you from working to earn a paycheck.

 

MYTH 2
DI is just for high-risk jobs and catastrophic injuries.

 

DI provides a benefit for income-interrupting disabilities due to many types of illnesses or injuries.1

There’s a misconception that you should only have DI if you have a high-risk job, but DI can be a great fit for nurses, truck drivers, farmers, dental hygienists and other hard-working Americans.

MYTH 3
An illness or injury won’t keep me out of work for very long.

The average duration of a long-term disability claim in the U.S. is 34 months.2 You’ll need time to rest and recover if an illness or injury is serious enough to interrupt your income and prevent you from working.

 

MYTH 4
My finances will be fine if an illness or injury keeps me out of work.

 

Nearly 78% of Americans

would experience financial difficulties if their paychecks were delayed for a week.3

Understanding the facts about DI can help you better evaluate your options. Exploring how coverage works and what it may provide can be an important step in planning for income protection.

Sources

1Disability Approval Guide, Most Common Disability Claims Awarded Monthly Benefits: Top 10 Medical Conditions (Claims as of 2022)

2Council for Disability Income Awareness, 2024.

3Survey Reveals Ongoing Financial Strain as Majority of Americans Depend on Timely Paychecks." PayrollOrg survey, 2025.