When you purchase a disability policy, you buy it to protect yourself based on where you are at the time of purchase. Where you are living and what you are doing. But what happens if you move or change jobs or professions?  Your needs can shift dramatically with these transitions. Here’s what to know so your policy keeps up with your life.

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1. Your Individual Policy Moves With You

One of the major benefits of owning an individual disability insurance policy is portability. This means:

• You can keep your policy no matter where you move or work.

• Your rates and benefits don’t change just because you relocate or change employers.

• You maintain control of the policy, not your employer.

• You need to notify the company of the address change. However, the company is not going to require you to make any changes based on your new location.

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2. Updating Your Income and Occupation

Insurers base your benefits on your income and job duties at the time of application. If you:

• Get a raise,

• Switch specialties, or

• Become self-employed,

…it may be time to increase your coverage or make adjustments.

Some policies include riders (like a Future Increase Option) that allow you to increase benefits without new medical underwriting, but those windows can expire. If you’ve changed jobs recently, now is the time to review.

If your income has decreased, if you are taking time off or are starting a business, you may continue your policy. The company cannot force you to reduce your benefits. If you are between jobs or are not actively working, the policy would still cover you if you were to become totally disabled and couldn’t work. For example, suppose you were taking a sabbatical for 6 months. During that time you develop cancer and need treatment. You could still file a claim since you are totally disabled and are not able to go back to work.

3. Switching From Group to Individual Coverage

If you leave an employer with group disability insurance, you may lose your benefits overnight. Some plans offer conversion options—but they’re usually limited and costly.

Individual policies are not tied to your employer, so if you anticipate a job change, it’s often wise to secure individual coverage while you’re still employed and insurable.

If you move to a new employer that does not offer a group disability policy, you may be underinsured and eligible to increase your benefits.

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4. Best Practices During Life Transitions

• Notify your insurance broker if you change jobs or move. They’ll help ensure your file is up to date and recommend adjustments.

• Review your benefit amount—your income may have changed.

• Check policy riders—some have deadlines or require action during certain windows.

• Understand what is (and isn’t) covered if your duties or hours change significantly (especially for residents becoming attendings).

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Disability insurance is not “set it and forget it.” It’s a dynamic part of your financial plan that should grow with you. Whether you’re relocating, switching employers, or transitioning to a new phase in your career, make sure your policy still matches your lifestyle and needs.

For more information about disability insurance when you move or change jobs or to request a quote, contact Set for Life Insurance today!