1. Income Replacement: Plans are designed to replace a portion of your income when you are unable to work. The exact percentage depends on your occupation, plan design, and waiting period.

2. Short-Term vs. Long-Term: Short-term coverage can help with temporary disabilities lasting weeks or months. Long-term coverage is built for extended recovery periods and may last for years or up to retirement age, depending on the policy.

3. Definition of Disability: Policies can use an “own-occupation” or “any-occupation” definition, which affects when benefits start. Understanding this definition is key to choosing the right protection.

4. Public Benefits Coordination: Some Canadians may qualify for programs like EI sickness benefits or CPP disability. Private coverage can complement these benefits and help close potential income gaps.

5. Optional Enhancements: Many policies offer add-ons like cost-of-living adjustments, residual disability benefits, or return-of-premium options to match your long-term goals.