When it comes to long term disability (LTD) claims in Canada, many people wonder which health conditions are most likely to be approved. The answer, however, isn’t as straightforward as you might expect. Insurance companies and government agencies rarely release detailed, standardized data about which disabilities are approved most often. This lack of transparency is due to privacy laws, differences in how each insurer defines “disability,” and the individualized nature of claim decisions. Every case depends on unique medical evidence, policy wording, and personal circumstances, making it nearly impossible to pinpoint a definitive list of the most commonly approved disabilities.

Share Lawyers—a long-standing disability law firm in Canada—often hears from clients who are frustrated by this lack of clarity. Their experience shows that the process is far from transparent, and many claimants are left in the dark about what to expect.

What we do know is that disabilities backed by clear, objective medical evidence—like imaging results, lab tests, or specialist reports—are more likely to be approved. Insurers prefer these conditions because they come with concrete proof that can be measured and verified, reducing uncertainty and disputes. In contrast, conditions based mainly on subjective symptoms, such as pain or fatigue or mental health issues, often face more scrutiny and a higher risk of denial. This focus on objectivity helps insurers ensure consistency and fairness in their decision-making, even if it means that some conditions are easier to approve than others.

With this in mind, this guide—supported by insights from Share Lawyers—will break down the most common disabilities submitted for approval in Canada, explain why certain conditions are approved more often, and offer practical tips to help you secure the benefits you deserve.

Disability Approval Rates in Canada

Disability approval rates in Canada can vary widely depending on the type of benefit, the insurer, and the specific circumstances of each claim. For government programs like the Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D), approval rates have historically hovered around 40% for initial applications, with some applicants being approved on appeal. Private long term disability insurance approval rates are less transparent, as insurers do not routinely publish comprehensive statistics. The approval process is influenced by the quality of medical evidence, how well the disability fits the policy’s definition, and the clarity of documentation provided. Ultimately, while some claims are approved quickly—especially those with strong, objective medical support—others may face delays, requests for additional information, or denials, reflecting the complex and case-by-case nature of disability assessments in Canada.

Top 5 Most Submitted Disabilities in Canada

While there is no official, comprehensive list of the most commonly approved disabilities in Canada, several health conditions consistently appear among the most frequently submitted claims for long term disability benefits. These trends are drawn from industry reports, government data, and insights from disability lawyers and advocates, including the team at Share Lawyers. The top five most submitted disabilities typically include:

• Mental Health Disorders: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are among the leading reasons for disability claims. Learn more about mental health disability claims.

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Chronic back pain, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal problems are common causes of disability claims. Read about chronic pain and disability claims.

• Cancer: A cancer diagnosis often leads to extended periods away from work for treatment and recovery, making it one of the most frequently submitted disabilities.

• Cardiovascular Diseases: Heart disease, stroke, and related conditions are major contributors to disability claims, especially as the population ages.

• Chronic Pain and Fatigue Syndromes: Conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are regularly cited in disability applications, though these are sometimes more challenging to prove due to their subjective nature.

These categories reflect the most common types of disabilities that prompt Canadians to seek long term disability benefits, even though the exact ranking may vary by insurer, region, and reporting year. The prevalence of these conditions underscores the importance of both physical and mental health in the workplace and the need for robust support systems for those facing long-term health challenges.

How These Conditions Meet LTD Criteria

To be approved for LTD, your condition must:

• Be severe enough to prevent you from performing the essential duties of your own occupation (or any occupation, after 24 months in most policies).

• Be supported by strong medical documentation: doctor’s notes, specialist reports, diagnostic tests, and treatment history.

• Show consistency of symptoms: regular medical visits and ongoing treatment demonstrate the persistence of your condition.

• Clearly impact your ability to function at work and in daily life.

However, approval isn’t as simple as it sounds. Quite often, these conditions don’t have extensive medical records or clear diagnostic criteria. Doctors may be reluctant to write medical reports supporting these claims and it’s hard to get appointments with psychiatrists or pain specialists who have very long wait periods. Share Lawyers frequently assists clients in overcoming these hurdles by helping them gather the right documentation and medical support.

How Can I Get My Condition Approved?

Insurance companies are more likely to approve claims when the following factors are present:

• Comprehensive medical documentation: Detailed records from your doctor and specialists that outline your diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and how your condition limits your ability to work.

• Consistency of symptoms: Ongoing medical appointments and continuous treatment show your condition is persistent and not improving.

• Clear impairment in daily functioning: Evidence that your disability affects not only your job but also basic daily activities (e.g., cooking, cleaning, self-care).

• Alignment with policy criteria: Most LTD policies require that your disability is “severe and prolonged.”

Even with all this evidence, your claim may still be denied. This is where working with an experienced disability lawyer, such as those at Share Lawyers, can make a significant difference.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Approval

If you’re applying for LTD benefits, here are practical steps to boost your approval odds:

1. Gather Proper Medical Documentation
   Keep copies of all medical records, test results, and treatment notes. Ask your doctor for a detailed narrative report explaining your diagnosis, symptoms, and how they prevent you from working.

2. Secure Your Doctor’s Support
   Your doctor’s opinion is crucial. Make sure they understand the LTD claim process and are willing to provide clear, supportive statements. If your doctor is hesitant or unsupportive, consider seeking a second opinion or a specialist’s assessment.

3. Avoid Common Application Mistakes
   Incomplete forms, missing documentation, or vague descriptions of your symptoms can lead to denial. Be honest and thorough about how your condition affects your ability to work and perform daily tasks. See the top reasons claims are denied.

4. Keep Good Records
   Maintain a diary of your symptoms, medical appointments, and how your disability impacts your daily life. This can be valuable evidence if your claim is challenged.

5. Consider a Functional Capacity Evaluation
   These assessments objectively measure your ability to perform work tasks and daily activities. They can strengthen your claim, especially for conditions like chronic pain or arthritis.

6. Work with a Disability Lawyer
   Insurance companies often deny valid claims. An experienced disability lawyer, like those at Share Lawyers, can help you navigate the process, gather the right evidence, and fight for your benefits. Legal support is especially important if your claim is denied or if you’re facing a “change of definition” after 24 months.

Checklist: Steps to a Strong LTD Claim

• Obtain a copy of your LTD policy and understand the definition of disability.

• Notify your employer and insurer as soon as you know you’ll need to apply.

• Gather all relevant medical records, test results, and treatment notes.

• Ask your doctor for a detailed narrative report.

• Keep a daily diary of symptoms and limitations.

• Avoid social media posts or activities that could be misinterpreted by insurers.

• Consider a functional capacity evaluation if recommended by your doctor.

• Consult a disability lawyer if you have any doubts or if your claim is denied.

Summary

Many people wonder which disabilities are most likely to be approved for long term disability (LTD) benefits in Canada, but there’s no clear answer. Detailed approval statistics by diagnosis are rarely published due to privacy laws, varying definitions of “disability,” and the individualized nature of each claim. However, claims supported by objective medical evidence—like test results or specialist reports—are generally approved more often, as insurers prefer clear, verifiable proof over subjective symptoms. This focus on objectivity shapes how claims are evaluated and why some conditions are easier to approve than others. If you’re struggling with your claim, Share Lawyers can provide the experience and support needed to maximize your chances of success.