Disability Insurance
What is own-occupation disability insurance?
Own-occupation pays benefits if you can't perform the duties of YOUR specific occupation — even if you could work in another field. Any-occupation only pays if you can't work in ANY occupation for which you're reasonably qualified. For professionals — doctors, dentists, lawyers, engineers — own-occupation is the gold standard. Always ask which definition your policy uses.
Key Points
- Own-occupation: pays if you can't do YOUR specific job
- Any-occupation: only pays if you can't do ANY job you're qualified for
- For professionals: own-occupation is non-negotiable
- Own-occupation policies cost more but provide far stronger protection
- Some policies start as own-occupation and switch to any-occupation after 2–5 years
- Always read the definition of disability clause before signing