Income Protection FAQ

Exclusive Income Protection Insurance Offer Enquire now and you'll receive a 20% cash rebate on your first year of income protection insurance premiums! This offer is valid for Rate Detective clients only, and can only be be received by applying above. This offer is available for all insurance companies that are on our panel. To take advantage of this offer, mention the offer to Rate Detective at the time you submit an enquiry for a quote. After 12 months we will email you a reminder that your rebate is due, so you can call to confirm your details. To be eligible for this offer, your policy needs to remain in force for the full 12 months. Any rebate to which you are entitled will be paid directly into your bank account or provided on a Gift Card.

How does income protection work? In the event of a claim, the insurer will pay an amount (normally up to 75% of your gross salary in Australia) until you have recovered sufficiently to work again, or up until the maximum benefit period as stated in the policy; 2 years, 5 years or up to age 65.

How much income protection cover do I need? The income protection cover levels offered are determined by your salary, and influenced by things like debts, lifestyle and illness or injury. In Australia, the maximum amount of cover you are eligible for is as follows: If you are employed 75% of your current gross salary (including employer packaged fringe benefits and superannuation contributions).

If you are self employed 75% of the income generated by the business as a result of your personal endeavour, less your share of expenses. This is usually averaged over a period of time, so that a good month or year does not result in a higher level of cover than what are entitled to.

If your income is above certain limits (for example, over $250,000), a lower percentage of income may apply.

Maximums to the monthly benefit sum insured may also apply. Things to consider: Costs of meeting your debts (mortgage, etc.)

Providing sufficient funds for a spouse, children or other dependents

Maintaining your assets & investments

What is income protection insurance? In the event you can’t work due to illness or injury, income protection insurance aims to protect your income by providing you with an income stream.

What should I pay for income protection insurance? Income protection premiums vary greatly depending on the level of protection you are after. As a general rule, income protection in Australia costs approximately one week’s salary per year (approximately 2% of your annual salary). And when it comes to tax time, premiums are generally tax deductible. To find out if this is the case for you, seek out advice from a tax professional. The following factors also influence your income protection premium: Age - the cost of obtaining cover generally increases over time

- the cost of obtaining cover generally increases over time Gender

Health and pre-existing conditions

and pre-existing conditions Whether or not you smoke - If you currently smoke, or have smoked within the last 12 months you will pay more in premiums compared to a non-smoker. If you already have a policy and premium based on smokers’ rates and you have not smoked in the last 12 months, you may be eligible for a non-smoker’s premium.

- If you currently smoke, or have smoked within the last 12 months you will pay more in premiums compared to a non-smoker. If you already have a policy and premium based on smokers’ rates and you have not smoked in the last 12 months, you may be eligible for a non-smoker’s premium. Occupation - If your occupation is hazardous or high risk, you will pay a higher premium compared to someone who works in an office.

- If your occupation is hazardous or high risk, you will pay a higher premium compared to someone who works in an office. Waiting period - how long you can be off work before you require the income to commence. The waiting periods generally range from 2 weeks to 2 years.

- how long you can be off work before you require the income to commence. The waiting periods generally range from 2 weeks to 2 years. Benefit Period - The maximum length of time the policy will provide you with an income stream, following the waiting period. These can either be for a set period (2 years, 5 years) or until a certain age (to age 65). If you have recovered from your sickness or injury and are able to return to work, then the monthly benefit will cease at the time of your return.

- The maximum length of time the policy will provide you with an income stream, following the waiting period. These can either be for a set period (2 years, 5 years) or until a certain age (to age 65). If you have recovered from your sickness or injury and are able to return to work, then the monthly benefit will cease at the time of your return. Additional policy features – comprehensive cover, basic cover or any additional features will also affect the policy premium.

Who offers best Income Protection Insurance in Australia? At Rate Detective, we take your Personal Insurances seriously. We compare up to 9 insurance companies in Australia, rather than just a couple. This service is offered at no cost to you. To find income protection insurance for you, complete our enquiry form, or contact us via email or phone 1300 793 143. This is a free, no-obligation service. If you feel comfortable with the information provided in your initial enquiry, please let our consultants know during your discussions.