Reality
Workers' compensation ONLY covers injuries that occur on the job. It does NOT cover illnesses (cancer, heart disease, mental health) which account for over 90% of long-term disabilities. If you slip on ice in your driveway, workers' comp pays nothing.
Reality
Over 65% of initial SSDI applications are denied. The average monthly SSDI benefit is approximately $1,537 -- far less than most professionals earn. The definition is "total disability" meaning you cannot perform ANY gainful work. The approval process can take 3-24 months.
Reality
Over 90% of long-term disabilities are caused by illness, not accidents. Back problems, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and mental health conditions are the leading causes. These are exactly the conditions workers' comp does not cover.
Reality
The average long-term disability lasts over 2.5 years. At $6,250/month ($75K income), that is over $187,500 in lost income -- not including increased medical costs. Most Americans have less than $10,000 in savings. Even well-funded emergency funds are exhausted in months, not years.
Reality
Employer-paid group DI typically replaces only 60% of base salary (excluding bonuses, commissions), is taxable as income (reducing the net benefit to ~40%), is not portable if you leave the employer, and often has an "any occupation" definition after 24 months. You may need supplemental individual coverage.