People diligently insure their homes and cars, then leave the asset that pays for everything — their income — completely exposed. Disability insurance replaces a portion of your paycheck (commonly 50–70%) if a covered illness or injury keeps you from working. Given that a disabling event is more likely during your working years than an early death, it may be the most overlooked coverage in personal finance. Maru helps Washington and Florida professionals and business owners protect their earning power with the right short- and long-term coverage.
Short-term vs. long-term disability
| Short-term disability | Long-term disability | |
|---|---|---|
| When benefits start | Days after the disabling event | After a waiting period (e.g., 90 days) |
| How long benefits last | Weeks to a few months | Years, or to retirement age |
| Typical source | Often employer-provided | Employer or, ideally, an individual policy you own |
| Best for | Bridging a temporary recovery | Protecting against a serious, lasting disability |
The fine print that matters most
Two policy definitions drive real-world value. First, how “disability” is defined: own-occupation coverage pays if you can't perform your profession, while any-occupation only pays if you can't work at all — own-occupation is far stronger for skilled professionals. Second, whether benefits are level or increase with inflation, and whether the policy is non-cancelable with locked-in premiums. We compare these details, not just the price, because they determine whether the policy actually pays when you need it.
Who needs it most
Anyone who depends on their income and doesn't have years of expenses saved — which is most working people. It's especially critical for high earners, professionals (physicians, attorneys, dentists), commissioned salespeople, and self-employed and small-business owners in Washington and Florida who have no employer safety net at all. Since neither state provides a state disability program the way a few states do, private coverage is the primary protection here.
Frequently asked questions
Doesn't my employer's disability coverage cover me?
What's the difference between own-occupation and any-occupation coverage?
How much of my income can disability insurance replace?
Do Washington and Florida have state disability programs?
Licensed independent insurance agent · WA & FL
Written and reviewed by a licensed Maru advisor. Maru Insurance is an independent agency (License #22261820) representing multiple A-rated carriers across Washington and Florida.
Ready for a quote that actually fits?
Talk to a licensed Maru advisor in Washington or Florida. No pressure, no call-center scripts — just clear options and honest pricing.