Best Self Employed Disability Insurance in 2024

Megan Foisch
Isometric blog header with cash and insurance icons.

If you’re self-employed, having disability insurance is crucial to protect your income in case you can’t work due to illness or injury. Many people think it won’t happen to them, but statistics show that a significant number of workers will experience a disability at some point. This article explores the best options for self-employed individuals in 2024, helping you find the right coverage to fit your needs.

Key Takeaways

  • Disability insurance is essential for self-employed workers to safeguard their income.
  • One in four 20-year-olds may face a disability before retirement age.
  • Various insurance providers offer different plans tailored for self-employed individuals.
  • Understanding the differences between short-term and long-term disability is key to making an informed choice.
  • Always compare different policies to find the best coverage and rates.

1. Northwestern Mutual

Northwestern Mutual stands out as a top choice for self-employed disability insurance in 2024. This company is known for its strong financial stability and excellent customer service. Founded in 1859, it has a long history of helping individuals protect their income during tough times.

Key Features:

  • Customizable Plans: Self-employed individuals can tailor their policies to fit their specific needs.
  • Strong Reputation: With an A++ rating from AM Best, Northwestern Mutual is recognized for its reliability.
  • Quick Claims Process: The company has streamlined its claims process, aiming to make decisions within 30 days.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pros:
  • Cons:

Northwestern Mutual is a trusted name in the insurance industry, making it a great option for self-employed individuals looking for reliable disability coverage.

In summary, Northwestern Mutual offers a strong combination of financial security, customizable plans, and a commitment to customer service, making it a top contender for self-employed disability insurance in 2024.

For those seeking income protection, this company is worth considering as part of their insurance strategy.

2. Guardian

Guardian is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. Their disability insurance is designed to provide financial support when you need it most. This company has been around since 1860 and has built a strong reputation over the years.

Key Features of Guardian Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Waiting Periods: You can choose from waiting periods of 30, 60, 90, 180, 360, or even 720 days.
  • Benefit Periods: Options include 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, or until age 65, 67, or 70.
  • Customizable Riders: Guardian offers many riders to enhance your coverage, such as:
    • Automatic increased benefits rider
    • Catastrophic disability rider
    • Cost of living adjustment rider

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Non-cancellable rider included
  • Lifetime extended benefits rider available
  • Many optional riders to choose from

Cons:

  • Not the best choice for those with manual jobs

Guardian’s disability insurance is a solid choice for high-income earners who work in non-physical jobs.

In summary, Guardian provides a comprehensive range of options for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. With its strong financial backing and customizable features, it stands out as a reliable choice in 2024.

Customer Satisfaction

Guardian has a low complaint index, meaning they receive fewer complaints than expected, which reflects their commitment to customer service. They are available in all 50 states, making them accessible to many.

Overall, Guardian is a strong contender for anyone seeking disability insurance, especially for those who want flexibility and customization in their policies.

3. Mutual of Omaha

Mutual of Omaha is a well-known name in the insurance world, founded in 1909. It offers some of the best disability insurance options for self-employed individuals in 2024. With a strong financial rating of A+ from AM Best, this company provides reliable coverage for those who need it.

Key Features

  • Monthly Benefits: Up to $20,000.
  • Waiting Periods: As short as 30 days.
  • Flexible Policies: Options for both short-term and long-term disability.

To qualify for a policy, applicants must be between 18 and 61 years old and work at least 30 hours a week. Here are some pros and cons of choosing Mutual of Omaha:

Pros:

  • Quick online quotes available.
  • Built-in benefits for accidents and illnesses.
  • Discounts for self-employed individuals with two or more years in business.

Cons:

  • Policies must be purchased through an agent.
  • Some options may not be available in all states.

Why Choose Mutual of Omaha?

Mutual of Omaha stands out because it offers a variety of options tailored for self-employed workers. The policies are designed to help replace lost income during tough times.

Mutual of Omaha’s policies are guaranteed renewable until age 67, providing peace of mind for the future.

In summary, if you’re self-employed and looking for solid disability insurance, Mutual of Omaha is a top choice. It combines flexibility, strong benefits, and a reputable history to support its clients effectively.

Summary Table

Feature Details
Maximum Monthly Benefit $20,000
Waiting Periods 30 to 730 days
Benefit Periods 6 months to age 70

4. MassMutual

MassMutual is a well-established insurance company that has been around since 1851. This company is known for its strong financial stability and long history. Self-employed individuals can feel secure knowing that MassMutual has an A++ rating from AM Best, which is the highest rating for financial strength.

Key Benefits of MassMutual

  • High Income Replacement: MassMutual offers up to 65% income replacement, which is higher than many competitors.
  • Customizable Policies: Customers can choose from various riders to tailor their long-term disability insurance to their needs. These options may include automatic benefit increases and catastrophic disability coverage.
  • Reliable Claims Process: The claims process is straightforward. You can start by calling MassMutual, and they will send you a claims packet that can be submitted via email, mail, or fax.

Considerations

  • No Online Quotes: Unfortunately, MassMutual does not provide online quotes. Interested individuals must contact a local agent to get more information.
  • Agent Interaction Required: To learn more about policies, you need to speak with a local agent, which may not be convenient for everyone.

MassMutual stands out as a top choice for self-employed individuals looking for long-term disability insurance due to its strong reputation and customizable options.

In summary, MassMutual is a solid option for those seeking reliable disability insurance. With its high income replacement and customizable policies, it remains a top contender in the market. MassMutual is among the best choices for whole life insurance policies in 2024.

5. Breeze

Breeze stands out as a top choice for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. The company offers a quick and easy online application process that allows users to get quotes and apply from their devices in just a few minutes. This is especially beneficial for freelancers and gig workers who need fast coverage.

Key Features of Breeze:

  • Fast Online Application: Users can complete the entire process online without needing to speak to a sales agent.
  • Transparent Underwriting: Breeze provides clear information about the underwriting process, which is often not available with other companies.
  • No Medical Exam for Some: If you’re applying for a monthly benefit of $5,000 or less, you might not need a medical exam.

Breeze is relatively new, having been founded in 2019, but it partners with Assurity Life Insurance, which has a solid financial rating. This means that even though it’s a younger company, it has a reliable backing.

Pros and Cons:

  • Pros:
  • Cons:

Breeze is ideal for those who prefer handling everything online and want a straightforward application process.

In summary, Breeze is a great option for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance that is easy to navigate and quick to obtain. With its focus on online services and transparency, it meets the needs of modern workers effectively.

6. Assurity

Assurity stands out as a great choice for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. This company is committed to social and environmental causes, making it unique among its competitors. Founded in 1890, Assurity has built a solid reputation over the years and holds an A- rating from AM Best for financial strength.

Key Features of Assurity

  • Social Responsibility: Assurity is a Certified B Corporation, meaning it meets high standards for social and environmental performance.
  • Coverage for High-Risk Professions: They offer policies that cater to high-risk workers, which can be hard to insure.
  • Easy Online Quotes: Users can quickly get quotes by answering a few simple questions about their age, gender, and occupation.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Long-standing reputation and reliability.
  • Quick online quote process.
  • Coverage options for high-risk jobs.

Cons:

  • Policies must be purchased through an agent.
  • Underwriting can take longer compared to some competitors.

Assurity not only provides disability insurance but also aims to make a positive impact on society. This makes it a great option for those who care about more than just their coverage.

In summary, Assurity is a solid choice for self-employed individuals who value both reliable insurance and a commitment to social responsibility. Their focus on high-risk professions and easy online quoting process makes them a noteworthy contender in the disability insurance market.

7. Illinois Mutual

Illinois Mutual is a solid choice for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. Their policies are designed to cater to specialized manual jobs, making them a great fit for construction workers, electricians, and truck drivers.

Key Features

  • Definition of Disability: Illinois Mutual covers both total and own occupation disabilities.
  • Waiting Periods: Options include 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 180 days, 1 year, and 2 years.
  • Benefit Periods: You can choose from 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, or until age 67.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Policies include a partial disability benefit.
  • Comes with a rider that pays for home modifications.
  • Offers coverage for mental health and substance abuse.

Cons:

  • Not available in every state.

Additional Information

Illinois Mutual has an AM Best rating of A-, indicating a strong financial position. They also have a low complaint index, meaning they receive fewer complaints than expected.

Illinois Mutual’s return-of-premium policy is straightforward. If you’re 18 to 60 years old, you can buy up to $500,000 in coverage, and add an optional rider for extra benefits.

In summary, Illinois Mutual provides a comprehensive range of options for self-employed individuals, making it a noteworthy contender in the disability insurance market.

8. Petersen

Petersen disability insurance is a solid choice for those who might be considered high-risk due to their jobs or health history. This insurance offers unique benefits that cater to specific needs.

Key Features:

  • Coverage for higher-risk individuals: Ideal for those in demanding jobs or with certain medical conditions.
  • Non-cancellable coverage: Once you have it, you can keep it without worrying about cancellation.
  • War and terrorism coverage: This policy includes protection against disabilities caused by war or terrorism.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  1. Tailored for high-risk shoppers.
  2. Guaranteed premiums that won’t change.
  3. Comprehensive coverage options.

Cons:

  1. Limited benefit periods available.
  2. Fewer optional riders compared to other insurers.

Coverage Details:

  • Definition of disability: True own occupation.
  • Waiting periods: Options include 30, 60, 90, 180, and 365 days.
  • Benefit periods: Ranges from 1 year to 10 years, or until age 65, 67, or 70 for certain professionals.

Petersen disability insurance is particularly beneficial for those who need specialized coverage due to their unique situations.

In summary, Petersen stands out for its focus on high-risk individuals, making it a noteworthy option in the realm of disability insurance.

9. The Standard

The Standard is a strong choice for those looking for disability insurance. It offers a variety of benefits that cater to different needs. Here are some key features:

  • Definition of Disability: They cover both own and modified own occupation.
  • Waiting Periods: You can choose from 60, 90, 180, or 365 days.
  • Benefit Periods: Options include 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, or until age 65 or 67.

Built-in Riders

The Standard includes several built-in riders that enhance your coverage:

  • Family care benefit for taking care of a sick family member.
  • Presumptive disability coverage.
  • Recurrent disability benefit if you become disabled again within 12 months.
  • Rehabilitative care benefit.
  • Survivor benefit.
  • Policy suspension while on active military duty.

Optional Riders

You can also add optional riders for more protection:

  • Automatically increasing coverage for six years.
  • Catastrophic disability insurance rider.
  • Cost-of-living coverage increases.
  • Student loan protection.

Customer Satisfaction

The Standard has a low complaint index of 0.25, meaning they receive fewer complaints than many competitors. This shows that customers are generally happy with their service.

The Standard is available in all 50 states, making it accessible for many individuals seeking disability insurance: why you need it.

In summary, The Standard provides a comprehensive range of options and benefits, making it a solid choice for those in need of disability insurance.

10. Ameritas

Ameritas stands out as a top choice for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance. They offer a variety of discounts that can significantly lower coverage costs. This makes it a great option for many people, especially those in specific professions or with certain memberships.

Key Features of Ameritas

  • Monthly Benefits: Ameritas provides up to $30,000 per month for eligible earners.
  • Flexible Benefit Periods: You can choose benefits for two years or until age 67.
  • Short Elimination Periods: Policies can have elimination periods as short as 30 days.

Additional Benefits

Ameritas also includes valuable features:

  • Advance Payment: If you get injured but aren’t disabled, they will advance $500 of your monthly benefit.
  • COBRA Premium Support: Up to $1,000 monthly for COBRA health insurance premiums if you lose your job due to disability.

Riders Available

You can customize your policy with various riders:

  1. Automatic Increase: Your benefit increases by 4% each year.
  2. Catastrophic Disability: Extra coverage if you need help with daily tasks.
  3. Student Loan Repayment: Helps cover student loan payments if you become disabled.

Ameritas is known for its commitment to rewarding good health. For every year you don’t file a claim, they shorten your elimination period by two days, up to a maximum of 30 days.

In summary, Ameritas is a strong contender for self-employed individuals looking for comprehensive disability insurance with flexible options and valuable discounts.

11. Principal

Principal Financial Group offers a strong option for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance. Their Principal Income Protector policy is known for its quick approval process. This means that if you’re under 51 years old, you can get up to $10,000 in monthly benefits with just a few questions and a quick phone interview.

Key Features:

  • Maximum Monthly Benefit: Up to $35,000, which is higher than many competitors.
  • Benefit Periods: Options range from 2 years to age 70.
  • Elimination Periods: Choose from 60, 90, 180, or 365 days.

Additional Benefits:

  • Non-Cancelable Policy: As long as you keep paying, your policy cannot be canceled.
  • Riders Available: You can add features like catastrophic disability coverage or a death benefit rider.
  • True Own Occupation Definition: This allows you to receive benefits even if you work in a different job than your original one.

Considerations:

  • No 30-day elimination period is available.
  • The maximum benefit is not available for all occupations.

Principal’s disability insurance is designed to protect your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. It’s a smart choice for self-employed individuals who want peace of mind.

In summary, Principal stands out for its streamlined process and generous benefits, making it a top choice for those looking for reliable disability insurance.

12. Berkshire Hathaway

Berkshire Hathaway is a well-known name in the insurance world. They offer disability insurance that can help self-employed individuals protect their income. This insurance is crucial for anyone who relies on their ability to work.

Key Features of Berkshire Hathaway Disability Insurance:

  • Flexible Coverage Options: Choose the amount of coverage that fits your needs.
  • Customizable Plans: Tailor your policy with various riders to enhance your protection.
  • Strong Financial Backing: Berkshire Hathaway is known for its solid financial standing, ensuring reliability.
Feature Details
Maximum Monthly Benefit Up to $20,000
Elimination Period Choices 30, 60, 90, 180 days
Benefit Period Options 1 year, 2 years, to age 65

Berkshire Hathaway’s disability insurance is designed to give peace of mind. It ensures that if a person becomes unable to work due to illness or injury, they can still meet their financial obligations.

Protecting your income is essential for self-employed individuals. Having the right insurance can make a significant difference in tough times.

In summary, Berkshire Hathaway stands out for its reliable coverage and strong financial support. It’s a solid choice for those looking to secure their income against unexpected events.

13. AIG

AIG is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. Their disability insurance plans are designed to provide financial support when you need it most.

Key Features of AIG Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Coverage Options: AIG allows you to customize your policy to fit your specific needs.
  • Income Protection: You can receive benefits that replace a portion of your income if you become disabled.
  • Renewable Policies: Many of their plans are renewable, ensuring you can keep your coverage as long as you need it.

Why Choose AIG?

  1. Strong Financial Backing: AIG has a solid reputation and financial strength, making it a reliable choice.
  2. Comprehensive Support: They offer various resources to help you understand your policy and benefits.
  3. Customizable Plans: You can tailor your coverage to suit your unique situation.

AIG aims to support self-employed individuals by providing essential financial protection during challenging times.

In summary, AIG stands out for its flexible options and strong support for self-employed workers. With their focus on income protection, they help ensure that you can maintain your lifestyle even if you face unexpected challenges.

Highlights

  • Financial Support: AIG provides essential financial protection.
  • Customizable Plans: Tailor your coverage to fit your needs.
  • Strong Reputation: AIG is known for its reliability and support.

14. State Farm

State Farm is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. They provide solid disability insurance plans that can help protect income if someone becomes unable to work due to illness or injury.

Key Features of State Farm Disability Insurance

  • Wide Coverage: State Farm offers disability insurance for over 300 types of professions, ensuring that many self-employed individuals can find a suitable plan.
  • Flexible Options: They provide customizable policies that can fit different needs and budgets.
  • Strong Financial Ratings: With an A++ rating from AM Best, State Farm is recognized for its financial strength and reliability.

Benefits of Choosing State Farm

  1. Comprehensive Support: They have a strong customer service team to assist clients with their needs.
  2. Easy Claims Process: State Farm aims to make the claims process straightforward, helping clients get the support they need quickly.
  3. Additional Services: Besides disability insurance, they also offer various other insurance products, making it easier for clients to manage all their insurance needs in one place.

State Farm is a trusted choice for many self-employed individuals looking for reliable disability insurance options. Their extensive coverage and strong reputation make them a top contender in the market.

In summary, State Farm stands out for its wide range of options and strong support for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance. With their solid reputation and comprehensive offerings, they are worth considering for anyone in need of this type of coverage.

15. New York Life

New York Life is a well-known name in the insurance industry, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. Their disability insurance plans are designed to provide financial support when it’s needed most. This can be especially important as health-care costs hit post-pandemic high, making it crucial for self-employed workers to have a safety net.

Key Features of New York Life Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Coverage Options: Choose the amount of coverage that fits your needs.
  • Income Protection: Helps replace lost income if you can’t work due to a disability.
  • Customizable Plans: Add riders for extra benefits, like coverage for specific illnesses.

Why Choose New York Life?

  1. Reputation: They have a long history of financial stability and customer satisfaction.
  2. Expertise: Their agents are knowledgeable and can help tailor a plan to individual needs.
  3. Comprehensive Support: Offers resources to help policyholders understand their options.

New York Life stands out for its commitment to helping self-employed individuals secure their financial future.

In summary, New York Life provides solid options for disability insurance, making it a top choice for those who work for themselves. Their plans are designed to offer peace of mind, ensuring that even in tough times, individuals can maintain their financial stability.

16. Transamerica

Transamerica is a well-known name in the insurance world, especially for its disability insurance options. In 2024, Transamerica received a solid rating of 4.7 stars for its life insurance offerings. This company is a great choice for those looking for reliable coverage at competitive rates.

Key Features of Transamerica Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Plans: Transamerica offers various plans that can be tailored to fit individual needs.
  • High Coverage Amounts: They provide substantial coverage, which can be crucial for self-employed individuals.
  • Quick Claims Process: The claims process is designed to be straightforward, making it easier for policyholders to get the help they need when they need it.

Why Choose Transamerica?

  1. Strong Reputation: With years of experience, Transamerica has built a reputation for reliability.
  2. Affordable Rates: They offer competitive pricing, making it accessible for many self-employed individuals.
  3. Comprehensive Coverage: Their plans cover a wide range of disabilities, ensuring that policyholders are well protected.

Transamerica stands out for its commitment to providing quality insurance products that meet the needs of self-employed individuals.

In summary, Transamerica is a strong contender for anyone seeking disability insurance in 2024, thanks to its excellent ratings and comprehensive coverage options.

17. MetLife

MetLife is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. They provide solid disability insurance plans that can help protect your income if you can’t work due to an illness or injury.

Key Features of MetLife Disability Insurance

  • Income Replacement: MetLife can replace a significant portion of your income, helping you stay afloat during tough times.
  • Flexible Plans: They offer different plans to fit various needs, allowing you to choose what works best for you.
  • Riders Available: You can add extra features to your policy, like coverage for specific conditions or benefits that increase over time.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Strong financial stability May require a local agent
Variety of coverage options Online quotes not available
Good customer service

MetLife’s long history in the insurance industry gives many self-employed individuals confidence in their coverage. They have a reputation for reliability and support, making them a strong choice for disability insurance.

In summary, MetLife stands out for its comprehensive coverage and customer support. Self-employed individuals should consider their options carefully to ensure they choose the best plan for their needs. Remember, having the right insurance can make a big difference in your financial security during unexpected events.

Highlight: Group life insurance offered through employers can be affordable and easy to qualify for, but it typically stays behind when you leave the company.

18. Unum

Unum is a well-known name in the disability insurance world. They offer a variety of plans that can help self-employed individuals protect their income if they can’t work due to illness or injury. Here’s what makes Unum stand out:

Key Features of Unum Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Plans: Unum provides options for both short-term and long-term disability insurance.
  • Income Replacement: They can replace a significant portion of your income, helping you stay afloat during tough times.
  • Customizable Options: You can tailor your policy to fit your specific needs, including adding riders for extra benefits.

Benefits of Choosing Unum

  1. Strong Financial Backing: Unum has a solid reputation and financial strength, ensuring they can pay claims when needed.
  2. Quick Claims Process: They have a streamlined process to help you get your benefits faster.
  3. Support for Self-Employed: Unum understands the unique challenges faced by self-employed individuals and offers tailored solutions.

Unum is committed to helping self-employed individuals navigate the complexities of disability insurance, making it easier to find the right coverage.

In summary, Unum is a strong contender for self-employed individuals looking for reliable disability insurance. Their flexible plans and focus on customer support make them a great choice for those wanting to secure their financial future while managing the risks of self-employment.

Self-employed individuals should consider Unum as a viable option for their disability insurance needs, especially given their comprehensive offerings and strong reputation in the industry.

19. Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. They provide flexible plans that can fit different needs.

Key Features of Liberty Mutual Disability Insurance

  • Quick Online Quotes: Getting a quote is easy and can be done online.
  • Customizable Options: Policyholders can tailor their plans to suit their specific situations.
  • Short Waiting Periods: Some plans allow benefits to start in as little as 30 days.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Easy online application Must purchase through an agent
Flexible coverage options Limited availability in some states
Strong financial ratings Higher premiums for some plans

Liberty Mutual aims to support self-employed individuals by offering comprehensive disability insurance options that can help protect their income in case of unexpected events.

In summary, Liberty Mutual stands out for its user-friendly approach and customizable plans, making it a solid choice for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance.

20. Hartford

Hartford is a well-known name in the insurance world, especially for disability insurance. They offer a range of options that can help self-employed individuals protect their income if they can’t work due to illness or injury. Their policies are designed to provide financial support during tough times.

Key Features of Hartford Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Benefit Periods: Choose from options like 2 years, 5 years, or even until age 70.
  • Waiting Periods: You can select waiting periods of 30, 60, or 90 days before benefits kick in.
  • Customizable Riders: Hartford offers various riders to enhance your policy, such as a cost-of-living adjustment rider.

Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
Strong financial stability May not cover all occupations
Good customer service Higher premiums for some riders
Flexible policy options Limited online resources

Hartford’s disability insurance is a solid choice for those looking for reliable coverage. It’s important to compare their offerings with other providers to find the best fit for your needs.

In summary, Hartford stands out for its strong reputation and flexible options, making it a worthy consideration for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance.

21. Cigna

Cigna is a well-known name in the insurance world, especially for disability insurance. They offer a wide range of plans that cater to different needs. Here are some key points about Cigna’s offerings:

  • Large Provider Network: Cigna has a vast network of healthcare providers, making it easier for clients to find the care they need.
  • Low Complaint Level: Customers generally report fewer complaints about Cigna’s individual health plans compared to other providers.
  • Additional Insurance Options: Besides disability insurance, Cigna also provides dental and life insurance, giving clients more choices.

Key Features of Cigna’s Disability Insurance

Feature Description
Coverage Options Various plans tailored for self-employed individuals
Flexibility Customizable policies to fit personal needs
Claims Process Streamlined process for easier claims handling

Cigna stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction and a broad range of services, making it a solid choice for self-employed individuals seeking disability insurance.

22. Nationwide

Nationwide is a well-known provider of disability insurance for self-employed individuals. They offer a range of plans that can help protect income in case of illness or injury. This insurance is crucial for anyone who relies on their own work for financial stability.

Key Features of Nationwide Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Plans: Nationwide provides various options to fit different needs.
  • Income Protection: Their policies can replace a significant portion of lost income.
  • Additional Benefits: Some plans include features like rehabilitation support.

Why Choose Nationwide?

  1. Reputation: Nationwide has a strong history and is trusted by many.
  2. Customer Service: They are known for good customer support.
  3. Customizable Options: Policies can be tailored to meet individual needs.

Nationwide’s disability insurance can be a lifesaver for self-employed individuals, ensuring they have financial support when they need it most.

In summary, Nationwide stands out as a solid choice for self-employed individuals looking for reliable disability insurance. Their flexible plans and strong reputation make them a top contender in 2024.

23. Farmers Insurance

Farmers Insurance is a well-known provider that offers a variety of insurance products, including disability insurance for self-employed individuals. This insurance can be crucial for those who rely on their income to support themselves and their families.

Key Features of Farmers Insurance Disability Coverage

  • Flexible Plans: Farmers provides different plans to fit various needs.
  • Income Protection: It helps replace lost income if you can’t work due to a disability.
  • Customizable Options: You can tailor your policy to include additional benefits.

Why Choose Farmers Insurance?

  1. Reputation: Farmers has a strong reputation in the insurance industry.
  2. Customer Support: They offer excellent customer service to assist policyholders.
  3. Comprehensive Coverage: Their plans cover a wide range of disabilities.

Farmers Insurance aims to provide peace of mind for self-employed individuals by ensuring they have financial support during tough times.

In summary, Farmers Insurance stands out for its flexible and comprehensive disability insurance options, making it a solid choice for self-employed individuals looking to protect their income.

24. Allstate

Allstate is a well-known name in the insurance world, offering a variety of options for self-employed individuals. They provide solid disability insurance plans that can help protect your income if you can’t work due to an injury or illness.

Key Features of Allstate Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Plans: Allstate offers different plans to fit various needs.
  • Easy Application Process: Getting a quote is straightforward and can often be done online.
  • Supportive Resources: They provide helpful tools and resources to understand your options better.

Why Choose Allstate?

  1. Reputation: Allstate has a long-standing reputation in the insurance industry.
  2. Customer Service: They are known for good customer support, which is crucial when dealing with insurance claims.
  3. Comprehensive Coverage: Their plans often cover a wide range of disabilities, ensuring you have the protection you need.

Allstate aims to make insurance accessible and understandable for everyone, especially for those who are self-employed.

In summary, Allstate stands out as a reliable choice for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. Their commitment to customer service and flexible plans makes them a strong contender in the market.

Overall, Allstate is a solid option for those seeking dependable disability insurance.

25. Zurich and more

When it comes to disability insurance, Zurich stands out as a reliable option for self-employed individuals. This insurance helps protect your income if you can’t work due to illness or injury. Here’s what to know about Zurich and other options:

Key Features of Zurich Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Plans: Zurich offers various plans that can be tailored to fit individual needs.
  • Income Protection: The insurance provides a percentage of your income if you become disabled.
  • Additional Benefits: Some plans include features like rehabilitation support and partial disability coverage.

Other Notable Insurers

While Zurich is a strong choice, there are other companies worth considering:

  1. Northwestern Mutual: Known for comprehensive coverage options.
  2. Guardian: Offers customizable plans with strong financial backing.
  3. MassMutual: Provides a variety of riders to enhance your policy.
Company Name Key Features
Zurich Flexible plans, income protection
Northwestern Mutual Comprehensive coverage options
Guardian Customizable plans, strong backing
MassMutual Variety of riders available

Choosing the right disability insurance is crucial for self-employed individuals. It ensures financial stability during tough times.

In summary, Zurich and other companies provide valuable options for self-employed individuals looking for disability insurance. It’s essential to compare features and benefits to find the best fit for your needs. Understanding your options can lead to better financial security.

Final Thoughts on Self-Employed Disability Insurance

In conclusion, securing the right disability insurance is crucial for self-employed individuals. With the risk of becoming unable to work due to illness or injury, having a solid plan can provide peace of mind and financial stability. As we’ve seen, companies like Northwestern Mutual and Guardian offer excellent options tailored for freelancers and gig workers. It’s important to assess your unique needs and compare different policies to find the best fit. Remember, investing in disability insurance today can protect your income tomorrow, ensuring you and your family are covered in times of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is self-employed disability insurance?

Self-employed disability insurance helps protect your income if you can’t work due to an illness or injury. Unlike workplace insurance, you buy this policy on your own.

Do I qualify for disability benefits if I’m self-employed?

Yes, you may qualify for benefits through Social Security, but it’s not easy. You have to prove that you can’t work at all due to your condition.

How much does self-employed disability insurance cost?

The cost varies based on factors like your age, health, and the type of coverage you choose. Generally, more coverage means higher premiums.

What are short-term and long-term disability insurance?

Short-term disability insurance covers you for a few months to a couple of years, while long-term disability insurance can last until retirement.

Can I customize my disability insurance policy?

Yes, many companies allow you to customize your policy to fit your needs, including options for waiting periods and benefit amounts.

Is it worth getting disability insurance if I’m self-employed?

Yes, it’s important to have this protection, especially since self-employed workers often don’t have employer-sponsored coverage.

Hi, I am Megan. I am an expert in self employment insurance. I became a writer for Self Employed in 2024, and looking forward to sharing my expertise with those interested in making that jump. I cover health insurance, auto insurance, home insurance, and more in my byline.