How much does Income Protection insurance typically cost?

The cost of Income Protection insurance varies significantly based on multiple factors, making it difficult to quote a standard price. However, as a rough guide, a healthy 35-year-old non-smoker earning $75,000 annually might pay approximately $80-$150 per month for a comprehensive policy covering 75% of income with a 30-day waiting period and benefit period to age 65. Factors that increase premiums include: older age, smoking status, hazardous occupations, pre-existing health conditions, shorter waiting periods, longer benefit periods, and higher coverage amounts. Premiums typically increase each year as you age (stepped premiums) or can be structured to remain level for a period (level premiums). Your occupation is particularly important - office workers in AAA-rated occupations pay significantly less than tradespeople or manual workers in higher-risk categories. Gender also affects pricing, with women often paying more due to higher claim rates, particularly for mental health conditions. Shopping around between insurers can result in price variations of 30-50% for similar coverage. Remember that the cheapest policy isn't always the best value - consider the policy features, exclusions, and the insurer's claims-paying reputation.