Disability Insurance in Florida
Your income is your most valuable asset. If illness or injury keeps you from working, disability insurance replaces a portion of your paycheck — so your family stays financially secure while you recover.
The risk is real — and most people are unprepared
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Disability: What's the Difference?
The two types of disability insurance serve different purposes and work best together. Here's how they compare side by side.
| Feature | Short-Term Disability | Long-Term Disability |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage duration | Typically 3–6 months (up to 2 years) | Typically 2 years to age 65 (or lifetime) |
| Elimination period | 0–14 days | 30, 60, 90, or 180 days |
| Benefit amount | 60–70% of gross income | 50–70% of gross income |
| Best for | Short illnesses, recovery from surgery, pregnancy | Serious illness, chronic conditions, severe injury |
| Premium cost | Lower | Higher (longer protection period) |
| Works with | Bridges gap until LTD kicks in | Picks up where STD leaves off |
Pro tip: Pairing a short-term policy with a 90-day elimination period long-term policy is one of the most cost-effective disability strategies available.
Key Policy Features to Look For
Own-Occupation Coverage
The gold standard — pays benefits if you cannot perform the specific duties of your own occupation, even if you could work in a different field. Critical for professionals such as physicians, attorneys, and tradespeople.
Income Replacement
Most policies replace 50–70% of your pre-disability income, paid tax-free if you pay premiums with after-tax dollars. Enough to cover your mortgage, utilities, groceries, and other essentials.
Non-Cancelable & Guaranteed Renewable
The best individual policies cannot be cancelled and premiums cannot be raised as long as you pay on time — locking in your coverage and rate regardless of future health changes.
Residual / Partial Disability
If you can return to work part-time or in a reduced capacity, residual disability riders pay a proportional benefit based on your income loss — so you are not penalized for trying to work.
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
An optional rider that increases your monthly benefit each year during a claim to keep pace with inflation — especially important for long-term claims that could last decades.
Future Increase Option
Lets you purchase additional coverage as your income grows — without new medical underwriting. Ideal for early-career professionals whose earnings will rise significantly over time.
Who Needs Disability Insurance?
If you couldn't work for 3 months, could your family cover the bills?
Frequently Asked Questions
Client Reviews
Clients Who Protected Their Income with Disability Coverage
Real feedback from Florida families and individuals we've helped find the right coverage.
“I'm a nurse and worried about what would happen if I couldn't work. Lloyd set me up with a disability income policy that actually covers my occupation. He really knows his stuff.”
Sandra L.
Jupiter, FL
All Horizon Financial Services · Licensed Insurance Broker · West Palm Beach, FL · Since 2013
Protect Your Income — Get a Free Disability Insurance Review
Our licensed Florida advisors will compare short-term and long-term disability options from top-rated carriers and find the right coverage for your income, occupation, and budget — at no cost to you.