Are You Doing Enough to Protect Your Family and Assets?

Dan De La Torre
Jul 25
3 min read

Did You Know?

More than 1 in 4 current 20-year-olds will experience a disability that prevents them from working for at least a year before retirement. Disabilities can result from accidents, chronic illness, or mental health conditions. And without proper coverage, the financial consequences can be devastating.

The Reality: Most Americans Aren’t Prepared

Over 51 million working adults in the U.S. don’t have private disability insurance. Many rely solely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), a program with strict eligibility and limited payouts.

In 2024, the average SSDI benefit is about $1,483/month, significantly lower than most people’s monthly expenses. Plus, SSDI benefits are taxable, and the application process is often slow and frustrating. Only about 35% of initial claims are approved, meaning many are left without income for months.

Here’s another sobering stat: only 54% of U.S. adults have enough savings to cover just three months of living expenses if their primary income stops. That means nearly half of working Americans are financially vulnerable if they become disabled.

Common Myths About Disability Insurance

Despite the risks, many employees still believe they don’t need disability insurance. Why?

“It’s only for physical jobs.”Not true. Most disabilities are caused by illnesses like cancer, heart disease, or mental health issues—not accidents.
“SSDI is enough.”SSDI benefits are often too low and not guaranteed. They rarely cover full expenses, especially if you have dependents, debt, or ongoing obligations.

Why Disability Insurance Matters for Federal Employees

Federal workers, whether they’re in law enforcement, admin, intelligence, or field operation, face unique risks. While the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and SSDI offer some protection, the benefits are often limited, taxable, and not designed for long-term coverage.

Gaps in Federal Disability Coverage:

FERS Disability is temporary and may decrease over time.
SSDI offers low monthly benefits and a difficult approval process.
Neither guarantees enough to maintain your lifestyle.

Federal employees, especially those in agencies like the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals, work in high-risk environments. But even sedentary roles carry risks, from repetitive strain injuries to stress-related illnesses. Disability insurance helps bridge those gaps.

Your Age Impacts Your Risk—And Your Needs

Every generation faces different financial pressure, and a disability could derail everything you’ve worked for:

Millennials (23–40): Often early in careers, with limited savings. A disability now could erase years of progress.
Gen Xers (41–53): In peak earning years, often juggling mortgages, kids, and aging parents. Income protection is crucial.
Boomers (54–72): Approaching or in retirement. A disability could force early retirement and deplete savings fast.

No matter your age, disability insurance helps protect your income and financial stability.

Protect What You’ve Built

Disability insurance isn’t just about coverage—it’s about preserving your future. It protects your lifestyle, your family, and your long-term financial goals from the unpredictability of illness or injury.

At FedAdvantage, we specialize in helping federal employees get affordable, personalized disability insurance solutions. We fill in the gaps left by SSDI and FERS, offering real peace of mind when life doesn’t go according to plan.

Protect Your Future

No matter your age or stage of life, protecting your income in the event of a disability is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Disability insurance helps preserve your lifestyle, your savings, and your long-term goals—even when the unexpected happens.

At FedAdvantage, we help federal employees bridge the gaps that traditional benefit programs often leave behind. Our affordable disability insurance solutions are designed to fit your needs, providing protection when you need it most. Take the next step to secure your future today. Contact us or get a quote to learn more.