For most high earners, the capacity to earn remains their most valuable asset, and a serious illness or injury can interrupt it without warning. Group coverage through an association or employer is frequently capped well below a high earner's income, and it may not follow you through a change of role. Disability insurance sustains your income should you be unable to work. Critical illness insurance provides a lump sum on diagnosis of a covered condition, so your attention can remain on recovery rather than finances. Personally owned and properly structured, either benefit is generally received tax-free.