Can I receive partial benefits if I return to work part-time or in a reduced capacity?

Yes, most Income Protection policies include partial disability or partial benefit provisions that allow you to receive reduced benefits if you return to work in a limited capacity while still recovering. This is sometimes called 'rehabilitation benefits' or 'proportionate disability benefits'. Typically, if you're working reduced hours or in a lower-paid role due to your disability and earning less than before, the insurer will pay a percentage of your full benefit to make up some of the income shortfall. The calculation often works like this: if you're earning 40% of your pre-disability income, you might receive 60% of your monthly benefit. These provisions encourage and support graduated return to work programs, which research shows improve recovery outcomes. Some policies have minimum work requirements, such as needing to work at least 10 hours per week to qualify for partial benefits. The partial benefit period may be limited to a specific timeframe (like 12 months) or may continue for the full benefit period. This feature is particularly valuable for conditions requiring gradual recovery, such as after surgery, cancer treatment, or mental health conditions. It allows you to ease back into work without losing all your insurance benefits immediately.