How Guardian GSI Works

A straightforward process designed specifically for physicians in training.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Guardian’s GSI program is available at more than 150 residency and fellowship programs across the United States. Your hospital must participate in a Guardian GSI group agreement.

•       You must currently be enrolled in a participating residency or fellowship program

•       You must apply during training or within 90 days of graduation

•       No prior individual disability insurance application or decline can be on record

Step 2: Choose Your Coverage

GSI coverage is customizable. Work with your advisor to select the benefit amount and optional riders that fit your situation.

Benefit Amount

Choose a monthly benefit that protects your income (typically $2,500–$7,500/month during training)

Benefit Period

Coverage continues to age 65 or 67 — protecting your income throughout your career

Elimination Period

The waiting period before benefits begin (90 days is standard)

Future Increase Option (FIO)

Lock in the right to significantly increase coverage as your income grows, without new underwriting

Benefit Purchase Rider (BPR)

A flexible alternative to FIO that lets you buy additional coverage at key life events

Step 3: Apply — No Medical Underwriting

Complete the application during your training window. Unlike traditional disability policies, GSI requires no medical exams, lab work, or health questionnaires. Eligible applicants are guaranteed approval.

Step 4: Your Policy Goes with You

Your GSI policy is an individual policy — it belongs to you, not your hospital. When you complete training and move on, your coverage and your discounted premium rate go with you.

Using optional riders like the FIO or BPR, you can increase your monthly benefit over time as your attending income grows, with no additional medical underwriting required.

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GSI vs. Your Hospital’s Group LTD Plan

Many hospitals offer group long-term disability (LTD) coverage. Group LTD is a valuable benefit — but it’s different from GSI in important ways.

  • Guardian GSI - No

    Group LTD - Sometimes

  • Guardian GSI - True Own Occupation (specialty-specific)

    Group LTD - Often ‘Any Occupation’ after 2 years

  • Guardian GSI - Yes, it’s yours to keep

    Group LTD - No, it’s tied to the employer

  • Guardian GSI - Customizable by you

    Group LTD - Set by employer plan

  • Guardian GSI - Yes (FIO/BPR riders)

    Group LTD - typically no.

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