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Lesson 5: Income Protection Math (The 10x Rule)

Welcome to Lesson 5! In this lesson, we cover the exact math required to protect your family’s financial future. While many people guess how much life insurance or income protection they need, the 10x Rule provides a solid, foundational baseline to ensure your loved ones are never left financially vulnerable.


📌 What is Income Protection?

Income protection is a financial strategy designed to replace your earning power if you are no longer able to provide for your family due to an unexpected tragedy or premature death.

Your most valuable asset isn’t your house or your car—it is your ability to earn an income. If that income drops to zero tomorrow, your family’s living expenses, debts, and future goals still remain.


🧮 The 10x Rule Formula

The 10x Rule is an industry-standard benchmark used to calculate your baseline income protection requirement. It states that you should carry a total coverage amount equal to at least 10 times your current annual income.

\[Required\ Coverage = Annual\ Income \times 10\]

Why 10 Times? (The Capital Preservation Theory)

If your family receives a lump-sum payout equal to 10 times your annual income, they can invest that money conservatively.


📊 Income Protection Examples

Current Monthly Income Current Annual Income Recommended 10x Protection
₱25,000 ₱300,000 ₱3,000,000
₱41,600 ₱500,000 ₱5,000,000
₱83,300 ₱1,000,000 ₱10,000,000

🔍 Factors That May Increase Your 10x Baseline

While 10x is a great starting point, you may need more protection if you have:

  1. Large Outstanding Debts: Mortgages, car loans, or personal loans should be added to your 10x total so they can be wiped out immediately.
  2. Dependent Children: Consider adding the projected cost of tuition and university education for each child.
  3. Special Needs Care: Long-term care costs for dependents who rely entirely on your income.

🤝 Take Action

  1. Calculate Your Number: Multiply your exact annual income by 10.
  2. Review Your Current Setup: Do you currently have enough coverage to meet this 10x baseline?
  3. Share the Math: Teach this simple formula to a family member or teammate to help them evaluate their own financial foundation.

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