(Client names and details have been changed for privacy).

As the founder and CEO of a thriving tech startup, Aisha had always prided herself on her foresight. She had secured funding, built a brilliant team, and created a product that was changing the market. She was the driving force, the visionary. Her calendar was a carefully orchestrated symphony of meetings, pitches, and strategic planning sessions. She had a plan for everything—except for the day her body told her to stop.

The diagnosis was sudden and shocking. A severe, chronic illness that would require extensive treatment and months away from work. For Aisha, the physical pain was matched by a deep, gnawing financial anxiety. She wasn't just a founder; she was a major breadwinner for her family. Her personal income was tied to the success of her company, and her company’s short-term future was tied to her. Her mind raced with what-ifs: How would she pay the mortgage? What about the daily living expenses? Could her savings really stretch that far?

It was in this moment of overwhelming uncertainty that she remembered her meeting with Richard Hadley from Goodniss. Months prior, as part of their broader financial planning, Richard had discussed something called Executive Income Protection. At the time, Aisha had been focused on business growth and hadn't fully grasped its importance.

"Aisha," Richard had said, "Your most valuable asset isn't your company's intellectual property or its market cap. It's you. It's your ability to earn an income."

He had explained that a standard personal income protection policy might not fully cover a high-earner like her. An Executive Income Protection policy, on the other hand, is owned and paid for by the business, with the benefits paid directly to the company. This money could then be used to pay her a salary, cover her sick pay, or even fund a locum to keep her role covered. The premiums were also a tax-deductible business expense.

Aisha, now facing a daunting reality, called Richard. There was no "I told you so" from him, only a calm, reassuring voice. "This is exactly why we put that plan in place," he said. "Your business is your shield."

As with all insurance policies, terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Individual outcomes may vary depending on your circumstances and the insurer’s criteria.

What followed was a smooth and stress-free process. Richard worked with her company’s accounts team to handle all the paperwork, acting as the liaison with the insurer. He ensured that the claim was submitted accurately and efficiently, allowing Aisha to focus entirely on her recovery.

Within weeks, the first payment arrived. It was a lifeline. It allowed her to receive her regular income, ensuring her family’s financial stability. Her company used the funds to cover her salary, ensuring no disruption to their cash flow, and providing Aisha with the peace of mind to truly step back and heal.

The tax treatment of the benefits will depend on how they are used within the business and should be discussed with an accountant.

Months later, when she was able to return to work, she sat down with Richard. "You didn't just sell me a policy," she said, her voice filled with gratitude. "You gave me the greatest gift of all: the freedom to get better without the constant worry about money. You protected not just my income, but you also helped to secure my future."

For Richard, it was a profound moment. His work, he knew, was about more than just transactions. It was about empowering individuals like Aisha to pursue their dreams, knowing they had a safety net in place for life's unexpected turns.

Don't Leave Your Most Valuable Asset Unprotected.

Just like Aisha's story, a sudden illness or injury can threaten your financial stability and the health of your business. Executive Income Protection isn't a luxury; it's a strategic necessity for high-earning executives and business owners. It safeguards your income, your family, and the business you've worked so hard to build.

Policy features, exclusions, and eligibility criteria apply; outcomes depend on individual circumstances. Income Protection definitions, deferred periods, and coverage can vary significantly by insurer.

Are you confident your most valuable asset is protected if the unexpected happens?

Contact Richard Hadley at Goodniss Specialist Protection & Insurance Advisors today for a confidential, no-obligation discussion. Let us help you put the right plan in place to protect your future.