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Group Disability Insurance vs. Individual Disability Insurance: Pros and Cons

Disability insurance is a critical component in an individual’s comprehensive financial plan, especially for those in high-earning careers, such as physicians who require a steady income stream. The intense debate between group disability insurance vs. individual can confuse people on which route to take. By delving into the details of the two types, we aim to inform you of their respective pros and cons and enable you to make an informed decision guided by your unique needs. This blog will provide a detailed comparison and help you assess whether to opt for group disability insurance or individual disability insurance.

An Overview of Group Disability Insurance

Group disability insurance, often provided by employers, plays a crucial role in safeguarding employees from the financial strain that can accompany the loss of income due to illness or injury. This coverage ensures that a portion of the employee’s salary is compensated in the event they’re unable to work due to a disability. In essence, it encompasses both short-term and long-term disability benefits tailored within the policy’s provisions. Characterized by its uniform coverage, group disability insurance simplifies the enrollment process for all eligible employees and is considered an indispensable component of an organization’s benefits package, providing a foundational layer of financial security.

Pros of Group Disability Insurance

  • Often provided by employers, making it easily accessible for many workers, including physicians in various settings.
  • Premiums may be partially or fully covered by the employer, easing the personal financial burden.
  • Offers consistent coverage to all who qualify, streamlining the process.
  • Possible inclusion of pre-existing conditions without lengthy waiting periods.
  • Some policies provide portability, allowing for continued coverage after a job change.

These advantages make group disability insurance an attractive option for many. However, it’s not without its downsides. Understanding these can help employees and employers alike make informed decisions about their disability coverage.

Cons of Group Disability Insurance

  • Lacks the customization that might be necessary for specific needs, such as those of physicians who may require more tailored coverage.
  • Benefits are often taxable if the premiums are paid by the employer, potentially reducing the net benefit received.
  • Dependent on continued employment, posing a risk of loss of coverage with job changes.

At PRS, we strive to provide comprehensive support for physicians on their journey toward robust disability insurance.

Learn More

A Deep Dive Into Individual Disability Insurance

Unlike group disability insurance, individual disability insurance policies are purchased by an individual. This type of coverage is designed to replace a portion of your income if you become unable to work due to injury or illness. Individual disability insurance can offer more flexibility and customization, considering the unique needs and income levels of different professions.

Benefits of Individual Disability Insurance

  • Enables highly tailored coverage to better match personal and professional needs.
  • Options such as ‘own-occupation’ coverage are available, which are crucial for specialists in fields like medicine.
  • Not tied to employment, thus providing consistency through job changes or transitions to self-employment.
  • Benefits received are typically tax-free, providing greater financial support.
  • Guaranteed renewability ensures long-term security as long as premiums are met.

Individual disability insurance keeps you covered regardless of your employment situation, offering a layer of security that group policies may not provide. However, it’s important to look at the whole picture, including potential drawbacks, to make the best decision for your situation.

Drawbacks of Individual Disability Insurance

  • Typically more expensive than group policies, due to the level of customization and benefits provided.
  • Medical underwriting may be required, which could complicate obtaining coverage for those with pre-existing conditions.
  • May require a deeper understanding of various policy options and terms to choose the best coverage.

Individual disability insurance plans offer a unique set of benefits and protections, but they come at a cost. It’s crucial to weigh these factors against your personal and financial plan.

Finding a Comprehensive Insurance Solution

A comprehensive approach often involves supplementing group disability insurance from your employer with an individual policy. This strategy ensures broad coverage that not only protects your income in the present but also secures your financial future. By combining these policies, physicians and other professionals can achieve a balance of affordability and customization, tailoring their disability coverage to meet their specific needs.

Choosing the right mix of group disability insurance and individual disability insurance requires careful consideration of your circumstances, career goals, and financial plan. It’s here that consulting with a specialist in disability insurance for physicians can offer clarity and direction.

Find Your Disability Insurance Solution With Physician’s Resource Services

Physician’s Resource Services helps doctors secure their financial future with the right disability insurance coverage. Our team understands the unique demands and risks of the medical profession, ensuring you find a solution that best fits your needs. Whether you’re weighing group disability insurance vs. individual or looking to find a comprehensive approach, we’re here to help you navigate your options.

Discover how to protect yourself and your career with a tailored disability insurance strategy. Contact our team today to start protecting your income and working toward the future no matter what life throws your way.

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Robin Bales – AGENT

Robin has owned a Commercial Leasing Company providing financing to doctors and other operators for their equipment beginning in 2007. After the global crash of 2008, she went to work for NYL and spent 3 years there working with other entrepreneurs securing their retirement future and safeguarding their personal asset risks. Robin opened her own agency in 2017 Legacy by Design and has run a national firm coast to coast with 50-70 agents. Today the agency is much smaller serving 5 agents who share the same vision and passion for our clients focusing on health insurance, Medicare, and annuities.

Robin is most connected to ethos of PRS mission to improve the lives of doctors and their families. Supporting those who run the leading infrastructure of our country.

Robin has been married for 22 years to her husband Steven. Together they have 3 girls and have built a family with strong values and commitment to each others successes. Robin’s family are home bodies by nature and enjoy their 3 dogs hanging in living room or kitchen.

Karli Allen – HEAD OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Karli is a graduate of The Master’s University in Santa Clarita, CA, and has a business degree with emphases in accounting, finance, and management. Karli has been in the financial services industry since 2014 and joined the PRS team in 2018.

Karli oversees investment and financial planning operations and assists with the onboarding and service of the firm’s advisory clients.  Karli was a key part of our firm’s custodial transition to Fidelity in 2019 as part of our decision to become an independent investment advisory firm.  Before joining PRS, Karli worked in personal financial planning in Orange County, California.  She also holds a FINRA Series 65 license. Karli is grateful to be a part of such an amazing team.

Outside of work, Karli enjoys traveling, playing golf, and spending time with her husband and their goldendoodle.

Gabriela Chavez – ANALYST

At Physicians Resource Service Gabby plays a pivotal role in Paul’s advisory team, staying in close contact with clients, driving business development, and lending a hand in daily operational tasks. Additionally, she collaborates with CPA Erin Anderson to prepare tax returns, conduct withholding reviews and undertake various tasks across the division.

Gabby is currently double-majoring in accounting and finance at the University of the Incarnate World in San Antonio, and she plans to sit for her Certified Financial Planning exam in the fall of 2022. Before transferring to UIW, she attended the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in Edinburg, Texas. Gabby was born in Germany and is Mexican American. She loves to travel and has visited 11 different countries. She has a five-year-old pug named Penny.

Chris Fullbright – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Chris brings experience in financial services and the perspective of a successful entrepreneur who has launched several businesses. With over a decade in the industry, he has served as both an advisor and in a management role coaching new advisors. Chris attended the University of Georgia and Texas State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences.

He currently holds many financial services licenses and designations including FINRA Group One, Series 6, Series 63, Series 65, Series 7, ARPC, and Certification in Long Term Care (CLTC). In his free time he enjoys being involved in the local community through organizations such as Comfort Crew for Military Kids. Chris is also an active member of Austin Christian Fellowship Church, and enjoys spending time there as well as reading, fishing, and going to sporting events. He is happily married to Monique with two wonderful sons. In addition to serving physicians, Chris specializes in working with special needs families.

Kevin Burris – PARAPLANNER

Kevin received his BA and MBA from Indiana University, earned the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation from the University of Georgia, and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) designation from the American College. Kevin is looking forward to helping physicians live their best life. Kevin enjoys spending time on the lake with his wife, playing golf, and watching Indiana University sports.

Michael Kohles – AGENT

Michael attended Lake Michigan College and Siena Heights University, graduating magna cum lade with a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a major in Finance and minor in Marketing. Michael has been in the financial services industry since 2015 and has experience with multiple insurance verticals. Michael is excited to help physicians achieve their financial goals by providing insurance solutions. Michael is married to Erin and has 4 children. Michael also enjoys reading, golfing, playing poker, learning, and traveling.

Erin Kohles – UNDERWRITING PROCESSOR

Erin supports our advisors and clients during the insurance underwriting process in multiple ways. On a given day, she helps by processing applications, tracking and following up on open cases, and answering client questions. She appreciates the part she plays in helping clients prepare for the future, and she strives to make the process as simple and efficient as possible.

Erin has been in the insurance industry for two years and brings with her six and eight years of experience in accounting and quality control, respectively. She graduated from Ball State University and has her life & health and property & casualty insurance licenses. In her free time, she enjoys cheering on her two boys who play basketball, soccer, and baseball; traveling with her husband; and playing with their Yorkie, Mingo.

Erin Anderson – CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT

As a certified public accountant, Erin is a valuable part of our tax division at PRS. She enjoys working with our advisors to develop tax-efficient strategies, and she strives to provide clarity for every client she serves. Erin started her career as an accountant after graduating from Oklahoma State University in 2012 with a master’s degree. She earned her CPA license in 2018. Erin and her husband have two little boys, and they love spending time outdoors as a family and watching OSU football.

Alex Simmons – BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Alex oversees Business Development at Physician’s Resource Services. She works with each department to assist in continually improving PRS so we remain a leading competitor in the industry. Alex graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Energy Commerce. She is a Texas native who loves to spend her free time traveling and taking her pup, Teddi, to the dog park.

Jennifer Khan- UNDERWRITING SPECIALIST

Jennifer is an Underwriting Specialist at Physician’s Resource Services, with an extensive background in customer service and administration. Jennifer grew up in Texas, graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a BFA in Theatre, and spent six years in Chicago performing sketch and improv. She is a graduate of the Conservatory Program at The Second City and iO Chicago. Jennifer and her husband, Qamar, moved to Texas with their dachshund mix, Dobby, to be closer to family, sunshine, and good BBQ.

Cheryl Breeden – OFFICE MANAGER

Cheryl is the Business Manager for the firm and a licensed service assistant. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She has years of experience in the areas of process management, customer service, benefits, and insurance. Cheryl has three girls — Ashley, Hannah, & Olivia. She brings this experience to our firm where she manages the underwriting and service process. She also manages the business operations for the firm.

John C. Jackson IV – ASSOCIATE FINANCIAL CONSULTANT

John is an agent from Austin, TX, a graduate of Westlake High School and The University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and a Minor in Business Administration. While at UT, John was a 2-Time Captain and 4-Time All-Conference performer for the men’s lacrosse team. While away from the office, John coaches with the Westlake Youth Lacrosse program and volunteers with Austin’s Young Men’s Business League, and Austin Sunshine Camps.

Paul Smith, CFP® ChFC® MSFS – FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Paul has helped his clients in financial, business, and estate planning for over 10 years. Paul is a graduate of Texas State University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. He has also completed the extensive studies necessary to earn the Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®) designations. Paul is actively involved in the community through his volunteer work and service on Community Action Board for the Helping Hand Home for Children. Paul is married to Heather and they have two children, Nyla and Hazel.

Richard Cunningham – MANAGING DIRECTOR

For 30 years, Richard has been helping clients reach their financial goals with sincerity and integrity. He works with GME program administrators, individual physicians and their families to help doctors achieve financial security. Richard is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. He studied in Paris at the Sorbonne. Richard supports numerous charitable organizations, is actively involved in Austin Recovery, and he participates in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society as a survivor of CML. Richard is married to Adrienne with two children, Raven and Coates.