If your long term disability claim is denied in Canada, don’t panic or give up. There are clear steps you can take to fight back and secure your disability benefits. Acting quickly, reviewing your denial letter, gathering more medical records, and connecting with the right legal team can turn things around, even after your insurance company denies your claim.

Why Long Term Disability Claims Are Denied

Many Canadians are shocked to receive a denial for their long term disability claim, especially after faithfully paying premiums for years. Insurance companies are profit-driven, and denial of legitimate claims is a common tactic to minimize payouts. Here are some of the most common reasons claims are denied:

• Insufficient medical records: Lack of detailed or updated medical documentation, test results, or doctor's notes supporting the disability.

• Not “totally disabled”: The insurance company argues you can still work, even if your doctor disagrees.

• Pre-existing conditions: Claims may be denied if your illness or injury existed before your coverage began.

• Missed deadlines: Submitting your LTD claim or further documents after required timelines.

• Surveillance or social media monitoring: Insurance companies may use private investigators or online posts to build a case against your claim.

• Lack of objective evidence for invisible illnesses: Conditions like chronic pain or mental health struggles are frequently challenged because they lack clear diagnostic tests.

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do After Your LTD Claim Is Denied

Let’s follow the story of Dan—a 50-year-old packaging facility worker. Dan was experiencing severe pain, and after visiting his doctor, he was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. He was advised to stop working and he filed for long term disability insurance. He received a denial letter from the insurance company, turning his world upside down. Frustrated and worried about his future, Dan knew he couldn’t fight back alone. He sought guidance from a disability lawyer at Share Lawyers, who talked him through the simplified process of what comes next.

1. Review the Denial Letter Carefully

• Share Lawyers carefully reviews the denial letter and explains everything in plain language.

• They point out any mistakes the insurance company made and make sure Dan knows all important deadlines.

2. Request the Full Claim File

• Share Lawyers asks the insurance company for Dan’s full claim file. This includes all notes, medical reports, and details used to deny his claim.

• They review everything so nothing important gets missed.

3. Gathering Additional Medical & Supporting Evidence

• Share Lawyers contacts Dan’s doctors to collect updated reports and letters that clearly say why Dan can’t work.

• They help gather other papers, like work absence records, test results, and any proof Dan needs to show how his condition affects his job.

4. Dealing With the Insurance Company

• Once Dan hires Share Lawyers, Dan doesn’t have to talk to the insurance company anymore. They take over all communication.

• This protects Dan from stress and the pressure that insurance companies sometimes create.

5. Filing a Legal Claim (Not Just an Appeal)

• Instead of following the insurance company’s advice to file an internal appeal, Share Lawyers explains that it’s often better to start a legal claim.

• The lawyer works to settle Dan’s case—often by reaching an agreement with the insurance company through mediation, so Dan can get the benefits he deserves without having to go to court.

6. Supporting Every Step

• Dan has the Share Lawyers team on his side, answering questions and giving updates.

• Share Lawyers works on a contingency basis, and they only charge a fee if they win, so there’s no risk to Dan.

How a Long Term Disability Lawyer Can Help

• Take Over All Communication with Your Insurance Company: Once you hire Share Lawyers, you no longer have to deal with stressful phone calls, letters, or emails—they handle every conversation, so you can step back and focus on your health
  

• Read and Explain Your Denial Letter: You don’t have to figure out confusing insurance language or deadlines. Share Lawyers reads your denial letter, explains exactly what it means, and makes sure nothing is missed.
  

• Gather All Medical Evidence for Your Case: They collect all the necessary reports and documents from doctors and your workplace, so you’re not left chasing paperwork on your own

• Build and Settle Your Case: You don’t have to figure out the legal process or negotiate with the insurance company—Share Lawyers works to settle your case, often through mediation, so you can get benefits without having to go to court

With these steps off your plate, you can focus on what matters most: your health and well-being.

Appeal vs Lawsuit: What’s the Best Path?

When your LTD claim is denied, choosing between an internal appeal and a lawsuit can be confusing. We guide you through your options, clearly explaining why filing a lawsuit—with our help—is often the stronger path to getting you the benefits you deserve.

Key point: Unlike appeals, lawsuits are reviewed by independent parties rather than the same people who denied your claim. Lawsuits often lead to faster, fairer compensation for your denied LTD benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Denied LTD Claim

• Ignoring the Denial: Don’t assume it will resolve itself. You must act quickly.

• Missing Deadlines: There are contractual and legal time limits for claims and lawsuits (as little as 1 year depending on your policy, with a maximum of 2 years in most provinces).

• Appealing Without Legal Advice: Direct appeals are rarely effective; seek a legal review first.

• Exaggerating Symptoms: Always be truthful. Insurance companies closely scrutinize descriptions and may conduct surveillance.

• Withdrawing from Treatment: Not following medical advice or skipping appointments can seriously hurt your case.

• Posting on Social Media: Online photos or updates can be misinterpreted and used against your claim.

By following these steps, you can maximize your chances of getting your disability benefits and protect your financial future.

Contact Share Lawyers today and let our 35+ years of experience work for you. We can help you win your case against Canada Life, Desjardins, Manulife, RBC Insurance, Sun Life, and other insurance companies. Our legal team offers a free consultation and works on a contingency basis. There are no fees unless you win your case.

FAQs About Denied Long Term Disability Claims in Canada

How long do I have to appeal an LTD denial in Canada?

Each policy has its own time limits. Denial letters may give you 30, 60, or 90 days to submit an appeal. However, the most important deadline is the right to take legal action, usually 1–2 years after your denial. If you miss this window, you could lose your chance to ever claim your LTD benefits so speak with a disability lawyer immediately.

Can I work while appealing an LTD denial?

In most cases, it’s risky to return to work (even part-time) while fighting for denied disability benefits because insurance companies may argue you’re “not totally disabled.” Always get legal advice before returning to work, as exceptions depend on your policy details.

Will I need to go to court to get my LTD benefits?

Most long term disability insurance disputes are settled out of court, often through mediation. Only a small percentage require you to go in front of a judge. Legal teams handle the stressful parts on your behalf, prioritizing fast, fair resolutions.

What are my chances of winning an LTD appeal or lawsuit?

Direct appeals to the insurance company have low success rates, however, with legal action, the chances are very high.