Income Protection When You Cannot Work

Employer sick leave is finite

BCEA sick leave cycles cap paid absence. Extended illness moves to unpaid leave, UIF illness benefit (subject to conditions) or personal cover.

Group disability through employer may be own-occupation for two years then any-occupation — read the definition.

Individual income protection

Pays a monthly benefit after a waiting period (30/90/180 days) until recovery or policy end age. Longer waiting periods reduce premium — match waiting period to employer paid sick leave plus emergency fund.

Benefits are usually taxed as income when premiums were deductible — check your structure.

Size the benefit

Target 75% of net income replacement for essential lifestyle, not gross. Coordinate with group cover to avoid over-insurance that offsets benefits.

Unexpected Financial Shock in MyGenie links income interruption duration to household commitments and buffer depletion.

This article is illustrative and educational. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures are examples only — model your own situation in MyGenie or speak to a licensed financial adviser.