Own-occupation disability insurance is typically designed for individuals in specialized, highly skilled or high-income professions where an inability to perform specific duties could significantly impact their livelihood.  These roles often require years of training or certification and depend heavily on physical and mental abilities. Some of the occupations that typically qualify for own-occupation coverage include:
Medical professionals: Surgeons, doctors, dentists and optometrists who depend on precise physical skills or specific expertise
Lawyers: Attorneys who might be unable to continue practicing law due to cognitive impairments
Engineers and architects: Roles requiring precise technical abilities, where disabilities could impact job performance
Pilots: Commercial pilots who are required to meet strict physical and medical standards but may still be able to work in administrative roles
Financial advisors and accountants: Professions where cognitive abilities and sharp decision-making are essential
Executives and business owners: High-level corporate roles where the specific demands of leadership might be compromised by illness or injury
The list can vary based on the insurer, but the key is that the job requires unique skills that can’t easily be transferred to another role. If you're in one of these professions in Canada, own-occupation insurance could be a vital safety net.