Are you a
self-employed worker?

Not automatically. Self-employed workers don't contribute to employment insurance by default. They can voluntarily register for EI special benefits for the self-employed, which include sickness benefits for a limited period. The RQAP covers maternity, paternity and parental leave, not illness. For a prolonged disability, no public plan automatically replaces your income: individual disability insurance is often the main protection.

Coverage is generally based on your net income over recent years, according to the insurer's rules. The premium is adjusted accordingly. Some policies let you increase coverage without new medical evidence if your income rises, as set out in the contract. Alexandre generally aims for 60% to 85% of net disposable income and tailors the amount and clauses to your type of income.

The occupation definition (or own-occupation definition) is one of the most important clauses in a disability policy. It provides that you're considered disabled if you can no longer perform YOUR occupation - not just any job. With an "any occupation" definition, the insurer may, under the contract, stop benefits if you can do other work suited to your education or experience.

It depends on your age, health, income, occupation, waiting period and the definition clause. The gap between two profiles can be large: only a quote based on your file gives a reliable price. Alexandre prepares a free estimate for you.

If you pay the premium on an individual policy yourself, it is generally not deductible, and the benefits received in case of disability are generally non-taxable. If your corporation pays the premium (incorporated self-employed), other rules apply: the premium may be a taxable benefit and the benefits may become taxable, depending on the structure. The tax treatment depends on your situation; confirm it with your accountant.