Access Reliable Legal Advice on Long-Term Disability Claims in Calgary

Life with a long-term disability can be tough not only for the disabled person but also for the family members. Denial of long-term disability benefits can worsen the situation. If your disability insurer imposes unreasonable deadlines or refuses to pay out a disability claim, you must seek legal advice. Our lawyers endeavour to fight for you to get what you are entitled to. All you need is your insurance policy, medical records and any correspondence from your disability insurer in order to start the review process of your claim. Get in touch with our team for more information.

FAQs

Having access to the right information can help you make reasonable decisions regarding long-term disability claims in Calgary. When you come to us, our team will ensure you have access to the right know-how. In the meanwhile, we invite you to read the following frequently asked questions about long-term disability claims in Calgary:

What Is Long-term Disability Insurance?

In general terms, long-term disability insurance is a protection against the financial effects of not being able to work due to an injury, illness or a medical condition.  This illness, injury or medical condition might prevent a person from working and earning a wage to fulfil their basic requirements for an extended period, setting it apart from a short-term disability.

How Are Long-Term Disability Claims Different From Short-term Claims?

Short-term claims provide you with wage coverage for medical conditions and injuries that prevent you from working for a short term. In contrast, long-term disability claims offer financial support for an extended period.

Who Is Responsible for Paying for Disability Coverage?

People can buy long-term disability insurance either through a broker or an insurance company. In many cases, long-term disability insurance might have been received through an employer. In the latter, the employee, both the employer and the employee, or solely the employer, could've paid for the policy.

Do you have any more questions regarding long-term disability coverage in Calgary? We invite you to send them to us, and we will get back to you shortly.

How Long Does Long-term Disability Work in Alberta?

In Alberta, you must be covered for long-term disability under your employer’s group insurance or a private policy. Not every policy includes these benefits, so check yours to be sure.

To file a long-term disability claim in Calgary, you must fill out an application package from your employer or insurer. You’ll have one form to submit, plus medical and employer forms for your physician and employer to submit. A claim representative will also contact you for further information. 

Processing may take several months. Once approved, if you’re no longer on disability, you’ll receive a one-time payment for the benefits you’re owed. If your disability is ongoing, you’ll receive monthly payments.

What Medical Conditions Qualify for Long-term Disability in Canada?

No conditions are automatically approved for long-term disability; you must apply. Common conditions include accident injuries, cancer and psychological, musculoskeletal, circulatory and nervous system disorders. Don’t assume you won’t qualify without applying.

In Canada, long-term disability benefits begin after you’ve exhausted short-term disability insurance and your sick leave and EI benefits. While every policy is different, it’s typical to have coverage for two years if your condition warrants it. You may lose your benefits after that period unless your condition prevents you from working in any job.

Your insurance company may deny your claim if you don’t meet their requirements. Your insurer may investigate your activities or have an independent physician assess you. You may be denied coverage if they see inconsistencies between their findings and the information you provide. Failing to submit sufficient medical documentation or meet deadlines may disqualify you.

Talk to a lawyer if you feel you’ve been unfairly denied coverage.

What Happens When an Employee Goes on Long-term Disability?

Long-term disability coverage can last up to two years. After that period, you may continue to receive benefits if you can’t work in any occupation that pays at least 60% of your pre-disability income. The insurance company may request updates or mandate treatments.

Your employer can’t fire you because of your disability, but they can terminate you for other causes while you are off work on long-term disability. If you believe your disability is the reason you’ve been terminated, you may have a legal claim against your employer for violating your human rights. Contact the team at Stephens Holman Devraj for advice.

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