Dispelling Disability Myths
Disability isn’t often the topic of conversation, but it’s something that changes a person’s life, either temporarily or permanently. You may not think you’ll ever become disabled, but it’s a higher chance than you might think. And disability doesn’t just happen to the elderly—it affects people of all ages.
Keep reading to untangle common myths about disability and how you can help protect your income in the event you are unable to work due to a disabling accident or injury.
Myth #1: I probably won’t become disabled.
Disability might look different than you think. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines disability as any condition that limits one or more major life activity—including the ability to work. Statistics show that one in four of today’s 20-year-olds will become disabled—either temporarily or permanently—before reaching retirement age.1
An injury or accident could leave you unable to work or recovery from an illness could take longer than expected. While you might consider yourself relatively healthy today, it’s a good idea to understand the likelihood of one day being unable to work.
Myth #2: I’ll be able to get by if I’m unable to work.
Other than your typical living expenses, it’s also important to consider other financial constraints if you have a short- or long-term disability. While you may be prepared to support your current standard of living, disabilities can change your financial landscape in unexpected ways. A recent study found that working-age adults with disabilities spent an average of $5,341 annually on disability-related goods and services—equivalent to 20% of household income.2
Extra costs of disability are both direct and indirect. Out-of-pocket costs for healthcare, medical accommodations, specialized diets, and accessible housing can all become concerns if you have a disability, even for a short time. Lost income and family members taking lower-paying but flexible jobs to assist with care can indirectly affect household income. While expenses differ in each situation, it’s important to be realistic when considering extra costs.
Myth #3: I can get trusted coverage from any provider.
A quick Google search will turn up many options for disability insurance, but not all providers are the same. AVMA Insurance Services has been helping protect AVMA members for over 65 years by giving them access to insurance coverage designed by veterinarians for veterinarians. We know that your income is one of your most valuable assets, and something so vital to your quality of life deserves protection. We are always looking out for your best interests.
Consider Your Options
Disability claims happen more frequently than you might think. In 2025, approximately 17.4 million Americans ages 16 to 64 experienced a disability.3
Disability insurance helps protect your finances in the event a covered injury or illness leaves you unable to work. The income that allows you and your loved ones to pay for food and shelter and to enjoy life comfortably is vital, and it deserves protection.
No one can know what the future holds. That’s why the three group disability insurance coverages available through AVMA Insurance Services are intended to help protect your finances in case a disability hits closer to home than expected.
And don’t forget—while your personal life takes the most obvious toll, a disability can also affect your business. Professional Overhead Expense (POE) Insurance can help cover the costs of running your practice when you’re sick or injured and unable to work due to a covered disability.
If you want to learn more about the disability insurance options available through AVMA Insurance Services, including features, costs, eligibility, renewability, exclusions, and limitations, visit our website or give us a call at (800) 228-7548.
1“Disability Benefits.” Social Security Administration, 2025.
2“Musk’s Social Security Administration Cuts: Longer Wait Times, More People Will Die Waiting for Disability Benefits.” United States Senate, Subcommittee on Social Security, Pensions, and Family Policy, 26 March 2025.
3“PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY: LABOR FORCE CHARACTERISTICS—2025.” Bureau of Labor Statistics, 3 March 2026.
Underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company, NY, NY 10010 on group policy form GMR.
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