1. Quantify the monthly income need during disability.
2. Map existing resources: EI sickness (15 weeks, 55% of insurable earnings), employer STD/LTD, CPP disability (if eligible), personal savings.
3. Calculate the gap.
4. Select elimination period the client can fund with savings.
5. Select benefit period appropriate to the client's retirement plan.
6. Choose contract category (non-can vs. guaranteed renewable) by occupation and budget.
7. Document the analysis.