Ameritas review

Ameritas offers more ways to shape a policy than most insurers. DInamic Cornerstone Income Protection pays a traditional monthly benefit and is built in three steps: pick a plan with a rate guarantee or one that saves on cost, choose one of three definitions of total disability, then add riders such as student loan repayment, cost-of-living adjustments or benefits for a limited return to work. You also choose when benefits begin and how long they last. DInamic Fundamental takes a different route and pays a one-time lump sum if a disability stops you earning, is expected to last at least a year and you survive it by at least 30 days. Medical residents and fellows can get a guaranteed standard issue policy. Ameritas publishes no prices and sells through financial professionals, so it scores lower on experience and value than insurers with online quotes or published costs.

Who it is for

workers who want to choose their own definition of disability

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• DInamic Cornerstone Income Protection pays a traditional monthly benefit
• DInamic Fundamental pays a one-time lump-sum benefit
• Choice of three definitions of total disability
• Choice between a rate guarantee plan and a lower-cost plan
• Guaranteed standard issue policies for medical residents and fellows

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Two product designs: monthly income or a single lump sum
• Strength: Riders include student loan repayment, cost-of-living adjustments and partial return to work
• Strength: You pick when benefits start and how long they are payable
• Weakness: No published prices
• Weakness: Bought through a financial professional, not online
• Weakness: DInamic Fundamental only pays if the disability is expected to last at least one year

Key facts

• Products: DInamic Cornerstone, DInamic Fundamental
• Disability definitions: 3 to choose from
• Benefit types: Monthly or lump sum
• How to buy: Through a financial professional

Where it ranks

Ameritas is No. 4 in our Best Disability Insurance Companies verdict.