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By KJ Martin
•
September 26, 2025
Imagine suddenly being unable to work due to a serious illness or injury. With no paycheck coming in, how would you cover your rent, groceries, or medical bills? Unfortunately, many Americans haven’t prepared for that possibility—and could face serious financial stress if they need long-term time off but lack income protection. Why This Matters Disability insurance (including short-term and long-term plans) is designed to replace part of your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. Yet coverage remains out of reach for many: According to the latest disability insurance industry analysis , just 40% of working-age adults carry disability coverage. For employer-sponsored plans specifically, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only 34% of private-industry employees had access to long-term disability insurance in 2024. These statistics demonstrate a significant protection gap: even among those with health insurance, a large share lack disability coverage. At the same time, long-term disability can last months or years —not just weeks. The average long-term disability lasts about 35 months , while about 30% of Americans couldn’t handle an unexpected $400 expense without outside help. That combination of low coverage and high risk can spell financial trouble.