1. Individual policies can never be canceled and the premiums can never be raised. The only person who can cancel a policy is the insured. On the other hand, group disability can be:

   • canceled at any time by the insurance company
   • rates may go up substantially
   • benefits can be reduced

2. Benefits in group policies are paid up till age 65. However, lifetime benefits are available through individual policies.

3. Should you become disabled and have only group disability, you will need to be examined by a panel of doctors before any benefits are payable by the insurance company. However, with an individual policy, you may see your own physician. Claims will then be payable based on his diagnosis.

4. In a group policy, you must be disabled in ALL occupations before benefits are payable to you. Whereas with an individual policy, benefits will be payable if you were disabled in your specific occupation.
   

5. In most cases, if you leave your company, your group disability policy cannot be taken with you. Whereas, an individual policy is owned by you and can be taken anywhere you go.

6. Group rate premiums are lower than individual plans. However, group rates can be increased at any time. Currently, the trend is a 15-20% increase annually for group rates. Depending on your preference, individual policies can either be fixed or graded in its premiums.

7. The benefits of a group policy are taxable, depending on your tax bracket. Whereas, individual policy benefits are tax free.

The best scenario would be to puchase an individual coverage, with a group policy added on later. This is so that your benefits can be maximized. If you obtain a group disability policy first, it would be next to impossible to add an individual policy.