Disability Insurance can help protect a portion of your income should you experience an illness or have an accident and are unable to work. Disability Insurance can help to make your car payment, cover daily living expenses, as well as pay your mortgage or rent. Disability Insurance is often divided into 2 categories, Long Term Disability and Short Term Disability. Short Term Disability may provide benefits for a period of 6-24 months, and Long Term Disability will typically provide benefits for a 2 year to age 65 time period.