
Disability & Employment Lawyers in Canada
How to Apply for Disability in Canada
Managing a disabling injury or illness can negatively impact your ability to work, and in some cases, it may render you unable to work at all. This situation poses a unique challenge, as our survival hinges on our income to cover expenses, manage bills, and sustain our daily lives.
The added burden of being unable to work due to medical issues may increase the stress associated with your circumstances. Luckily, long term and short term disability insurance provide a way to fill in the gaps when you cannot work.
However, knowing the available options and how to access them is essential—though not always straightforward. If you’re wondering how to apply for disability in Canada, Share Lawyers can help.
Need more information on how to apply for disability in Canada? Share Lawyers’ experienced and dedicated team can help.
How to Apply for Disability in Canada
Disability insurance acts as a safety net that offers financial protection when an injury or illness impacts your ability to work for extended periods. Despite the crucial role disability insurance plays, many Canadians may be unfamiliar with the application process.
At Share Lawyers, we’re dedicated to supporting you, so we’ve compiled these steps to guide you as you apply for disability benefits.
How to Apply for Disability in Canada | |
1. Review Your Policy | Get a hold of your disability insurance policy. This paperwork will detail the terms, conditions, and prerequisites for initiating a claim. Ensure you understand the eligibility standards and any waiting periods involved. |
2. Notify Your Employer | Notify your employer as soon as you decide to apply for disability insurance. Your employer can give you the necessary forms and may be able to offer guidance throughout the process. |
3. Complete the Initial Forms | Usually, your employer or insurance provider will provide you with claim forms to complete. Ensure you fill out these forms accurately. They may require details about your medical condition, treatment, and its impact on your capacity to work. |
4. Medical Documentation | Collect supporting documentation from your healthcare providers, such as:
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5. Submit Your Claim | Submit the completed forms and supporting documents to the specified address provided by your employer or insurance company. Remember to retain copies of all documents for your personal records. |
6. Follow Up | After submitting your claim, follow up with your employer or the insurance company to ensure they have received it. Stay informed about the progress of your claim and inquire about any additional information required. |
7. Insurance Company’s Assessments | The insurance company will review your claim, evaluate your medical records, and possibly consult healthcare professionals. This process can take some time. |
8. Decision & Appeal | Once a decision is reached, you will receive notification of the outcome. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. However, we advise you to consider seeking legal advice beforehand. |
9. Consult Legal Advice | Experiencing challenges in the application process is common. If your claim is denied, it's crucial to seek legal advice from a lawyer specializing in disability law. The lawyers at Share Lawyers can offer guidance on your rights and explore your options moving forward. |
Each policy varies depending on your employer and your policy, making it essential to thoroughly review your policy details, including definitions, waiting periods, benefit amounts, and any possible exclusions or limitations.
The process of applying for disability can be confusing and overwhelming for many, especially during a time when you're likely experiencing increased stress due to your disability.
That's why it's advisable to seek guidance from an experienced disability lawyer like those at Share Lawyers. We can assist you in understanding your policy and exploring your options, particularly since insurance companies often aim to deny claims to avoid payouts.
Share Lawyers Helps Canadians Acquire Their Disability Benefits
Insurance companies often deny legitimate claims, hoping policyholders won't challenge the denial. Even if you haven’t faced a denial yet, working with a disability lawyer offers a smoother path and improves the chances of receiving your disability benefits sooner.
For over 35 years, Share Lawyers has been assisting Canadians in obtaining the disability benefits they're entitled to. We recognize the stress and frustration of being unable to work and are dedicated to guiding you and ensuring you're on the right track.
We handle all communication with your insurance company, allowing you to focus on your well-being during this challenging time. And the best part? Our consultations are free, so you won't pay anything until you receive your disability benefits.
Still wondering how to apply for disability in Canada? Share Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights.
Contact Share Lawyers today and put our experience to work for you. Our 35+ years of experience 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.