If you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, knowing how to get disability benefits in Canada is essential for your financial security and peace of mind. With the introduction of the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) in June 2025, there’s renewed attention on disability support.

However, for most Canadians, employer-based or private insurance remains the primary way to access long term disability benefits Canada.

This expanded guide covers everything you need to know about the disability benefits application process, eligibility, documentation, common challenges, and how to protect your rights

Understanding Disability Benefits in Canada

Disability benefits provide crucial income replacement when you can’t work due to a medical condition. These benefits help cover living expenses and allow you to focus on your health and recovery. While government programs (like the new CDB) exist, this article focuses on disability insurance Canada through your employer or private plan, which is often the first line of support for most Canadians.

Recent Update: The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) was introduced in June 2025, but if you have employer or private disability insurance, these are your main sources for ongoing income replacement.

Types of Disability Benefits in Canada

Here’s a summary of the main types of disability benefits related to workplace or private insurance:

This article focuses on long term disability benefits Canada through employer or private plans, not government programs.

Step 1: Determine If You’re Eligible

Eligibility is the first step in the disability benefits application process. Here’s how to check if you qualify:

Employer-Based Long Term Disability

• You must be a covered employee (usually full-time).

• Your condition must prevent you from performing the essential duties of your job (the “own occupation” test, usually for the first 24 months).

• After 24 months, most policies require that you be unable to work in any job suited to your training or experience (the “any occupation” test).

Private Disability Insurance

• Similar requirements to employer plans, but check your policy for specific rules.

• Usually purchased as “own occupation” policies, so if you cannot do your own job you are eligible for benefits until the end of the policy. These policies can go to 65, 70 or can be lifetime.

• Self-employed or contract workers often purchase these plans.

What Qualifies?

• Any illness or injury that prevents you from working can qualify.

• The severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work are more important than the specific diagnosis.

• Common qualifying conditions include mental health disorders, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, back injuries, migraines, and long term effects of COVID-19167.

How to Qualify for Long Term Disability

Understanding how to qualify for long term disability is crucial. You must:

• Be covered by an active policy.

• Meet your policy’s definition of disability (usually inability to perform your job, then any equivalent job after 24 months).

• Provide continuous medical proof of your disability.

• Be aware of exclusions for pre-existing conditions or certain illnesses.

If your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working, and your doctor supports your claim, you should qualify for LTD benefits—even if your diagnosis is not yet finalized.

Step 2: Gather Medical and Work History Documents

Strong documentation is the backbone of a successful disability insurance claim process. Insurance companies demand detailed, objective proof that you are unable to work.

Checklist for Document Gathering:

• Medical records from all treating doctors and specialists

• Doctor’s notes stating your diagnosis, symptoms, and work limitations

• Test results (X-rays, MRIs, lab reports)

• Treatment plans and medication lists

• Detailed job description and any attempts at modified work

• A personal journal of daily symptoms and challenges

• Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) reports, if available

Why is this so important?

Many claims are denied due to “insufficient medical evidence.” Ensure your doctor’s reports are detailed and directly address your inability to work. If your doctor is unsure what to write, ask for a narrative report or seek help from a specialist. Keeping a record of all communications with your insurer and healthcare providers is also vital.

Step 3: Apply to the Correct Program

Now it’s time to start your disability benefits application process. Here’s how to apply for long term disability through your employer or private insurance:

For Employer-Based LTD

1. Notify your employer as soon as you know you can’t work.

2. Request LTD claim forms from HR or your insurance provider.

3. Complete your portion of the forms carefully.

4. Have your doctor complete the medical forms—these must be detailed.

5. Submit all documents together and keep copies.

6. Follow up regularly to check on your claim’s progress.

For Private Disability Insurance

1. Contact your insurance company for claim forms.

2. Complete all forms and attach supporting documents.

3. Submit and follow up—private insurers may request more information or assessments.

Tips for Success:

• Double-check all forms for completeness and accuracy before submitting.

• Keep a record of every communication with your employer and insurer, including dates, names, and what was discussed.

• Be persistent—insurance companies may request the same information multiple times or delay processing in hopes you’ll give up.

The Disability Insurance Claim Process: What to Expect

The disability insurance claim process can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps can help you be prepared:

• Initial Application: Gather all required documents and submit your claim as soon as possible. Most policies have strict deadlines—missing them can result in denial.

• Review by Insurer: Your insurance company will review your application and may ask for additional information or clarification.

• Medical Assessments: You may be asked to undergo further assessments, such as a Functional Capacity Evaluation ( FCE) or an Independent Medical Examination (IME), to objectively measure your limitations.

• Surveillance: Insurance companies may conduct surveillance, including monitoring your social media or hiring investigators, to verify your claim. Always be truthful and consistent about your abilities and limitations.

• Decision: The insurer will approve or deny your claim. If denied, you have the right to appeal.

How Long Do Disability Applications Take in Canada?

Processing times vary, but here’s a general guide:

• Short Term Disability: 1–4 weeks

• Long Term Disability: 1–6 months (sometimes longer)

• Private Disability Insurance: 1–3 months

If your claim takes longer than 6 months without a decision, seek legal help immediately.

Common Reasons for Denial and How to Address Them

It’s common for insurance companies to deny or delay claims. Here are the top reasons—and what you can do:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence
  Solution: Get a detailed narrative report from your doctor and consider a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)367.

• Not Meeting the Definition of Disability
  Solution: Review your policy and gather more medical evidence if denied. Understand the difference between “own occupation” and “any occupation” definitions, especially after the 24-month mark.

• Pre-existing Condition Clauses
  Solution: Review your policy. If denied for this reason, consult a disability lawyer to review your medical records and policy wording.

• Surveillance and Social Media
  Solution: Be mindful of what you post online—insurers may use this against you. Surveillance should not intrude on your privacy, but anything public is fair game.

• Pressure to Return to Work
  Solution: Only return when your doctor says it’s safe. If you try and can’t continue, document everything and notify your insurer.

• Repeated Requests for Information
  Solution: Keep detailed records of all communications and promptly provide any requested documents. Persistence is key.

How to Strengthen Your Claim

• Keep Good Records: Maintain a detailed journal of your symptoms, treatments, and how your condition affects your daily life and ability to work.

• Follow Medical Advice: Attend all appointments and follow prescribed treatments. Gaps in care can be used to deny your claim.

• Be Honest and Consistent: Inaccuracies or inconsistencies in your claim or medical records can lead to denial.

• Understand Policy Deadlines: Missing application or appeal deadlines can jeopardize your benefits.

• Seek Expert Opinions: If your claim is denied, consider getting a second medical opinion or a legal review of your case.

Fighting Back Against a Denied Disability Claim

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Many valid claims are initially denied but later approved with additional evidence or legal help. Here’s what to do:

1. Review the Denial Letter: Understand the insurer’s reasons for denial.

2. Gather Additional Evidence: Obtain further medical evaluations, expert opinions, and any other supporting documentation. Remember most appeals fail and delay the process by months.

3. Submit an Appeal: Most insurers have an internal appeal process, but success rates are significantly higher with legal representation. Consider hiring a lawyer before you appeal.

4. Consider Legal Action: If appeals fail, a disability lawyer can help you file a lawsuit to secure your benefits.

Protecting Your Rights: Why Legal Help Matters

Insurance companies are businesses that prioritize their bottom line. They may use technicalities, surveillance, or repeated requests for information to delay or deny your claim. Working with a disability lawyer like Share Lawyers can level the playing field:

• Expertise: Disability law is complex. Lawyers understand policy language, appeal procedures, and what evidence is needed for success.

• No Upfront Fees: Share Lawyers offers free consultations and only charges fees if you win your case.

• Support and Advocacy: Lawyers handle negotiations, paperwork, and communications with the insurer, allowing you to focus on your health.

• Life reBUILDER™: Share Lawyers provides exclusive support services to help you rebuild your life during and after your claim.

Summary: Your Path to Disability Benefits

How to get disability benefits in Canada through employer or private plans boils down to these steps:

1. Check your eligibility by reviewing your policy and understanding how to qualify for long term disability.

2. Gather strong medical and work evidence to support your claim.

3. Apply promptly and follow up—know how to apply for long term disability and what to expect from the disability insurance claim process.

4. Keep detailed records and be persistent with your insurer.

5. Seek legal help if your claim is denied or delayed.

Quick Checklist: Applying for Long Term Disability Benefits Canada

• Review your policy’s eligibility criteria

• Notify your employer or insurer

• Gather all medical records and doctor’s reports

• Complete claim forms (yours and your doctor’s)

• Submit all documents and keep copies

• Follow up regularly

• Keep a journal of symptoms and communications

• Be mindful of social media and surveillance

• Seek legal help if denied or delayed

Remember:
You’ve paid for these benefits—they belong to you. If you’re struggling with how to get disability benefits in Canada, or if your claim is denied, Share Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights and help you get the support you need.

If you need help, reach out for a free consultation. You don’t have to face this alone—expert support is just a call away.