Being unable to work for medical reasons is one of the greatest financial threats a person can face. Yet people more frequently have life insurance in place, but not disability insurance.

In many cases, disability insurance is more important than life insurance because, for all but the elderly, the probability of becoming disabled is much greater than the likelihood of premature death.

You may not be prepared for the financial hardships a lengthy illness or injury can bring. If you can't pay bills without your income, you have five options for making ends meet in the event of a long-term disability:

Tap into savings; Sell assets; Count on Social Security; Borrow; Transfer the risk to an insurance company. The last option is the smart choice.

A solid plan of disability income insurance will provide additional income when it's needed most - when your income has stopped due to a qualified illness or injury.

Fortunately, the Illinois State Bar Association has partnered with Marsh Affinity Group Services to offer insurance plans aimed at protecting the incomes of ISBA members and their families. Call (800) 503-9230 to learn about protecting your income.