>I'm interested in what kind of disability insurance, if any, some of you might >be using. Is the PTG program the best coverage and rate or are there better >ones out there? I think social security pays some benefits in the event that >you become unable to work. Is it enough to get by? >David Porter >St. Louis, MO Hi David, The Social Security Benefits, IF YOU CAN GET THEM, are absolutely not enough to get by on. It is EXTREMELY difficult to qualify -- many have to apply several times before receiving benefits, and then it usually takes hiring a lawyer to get it through. They give you just enough to live at a very minimum standard. Though the amount is related to your prior salary, I believe there is a cap. Thus, the market for disability insurance. It is designed to be a supplement to Social Security so you can't get more if disabled than before, but at least if you've got the coverage, the government can't decide for you whether or not you're able to work and at what standard of living. I used to be a licensed Life/Health/Accident insurance agent, but the company I represented didn't have a very good/competitive product for disability, so I really didn't push it or get that familiar with the market. However, I did learn that a person is 7 times more likely to become disabled than to die prematurely. Disability insurance, especially in our field, I think, is well worth the investment. Sorry I can't answer your question about which is best, but shop around. Read a couple of policies and see what you're getting. The reading shouldn't be that difficult. I think most states now require simple language in the contract. Just like any other type of insurance, it doesn't take long to learn what you can get. Luckily for me, disability insurance is offered in my package of state benefits. I do have to contribute, but I selected the highest levels of coverage. Best wishes and Happy Holidays, Jeff Jeff Tanner, Piano Technician School of Music University of South Carolina Columbia, SC 29208 (803)-777-4392 (phone) (803)-777-6508 (fax)
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