How to Apply for Long Term Disability in Canada

You have made the tough decision to stop working and apply for disability benefits. You are currently receiving short term disability benefits or EI Sickness benefits in support. As the time approaches to apply for long term disability benefits, you may be wondering what comes next.

Share is There to guide you through the process and answer your questions every step of the way.

Before you can access LTD benefits, the first step is typically to go through short term disability (STD) or Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits. Short term disability is designed to cover the initial phase of your leave—usually the first three to six months—while long term disability takes over if your condition prevents you from returning to work after that period.

Your LTD coverage doesn't begin automatically. You’ll need to apply for it, often while you’re still receiving short term benefits. The insurance company will then review your application to decide if you meet the eligibility criteria. This process can take several weeks or months, so it's important to plan ahead and begin the application early. Your case manager will assess your medical history, the nature of your condition, and whether you’re able to work in any capacity. Short term disability is a necessary step before you can transition to long term disability.

When you apply for LTD benefits, your application is reviewed by a case manager from the insurance company. This person investigates the validity of your claim, assesses the extent of your disability, and determines if they will approve it or not. It’s important to understand that claims adjusters represent the insurance company, and their goal is to limit payouts whenever possible.

If your claim is denied or delayed, a lawyer who specializes in long term disability claims can help you understand your rights and fight for the benefits you’re entitled to. If you're thinking about leaving work to apply for LTD benefits but aren't ready to speak to someone, the “Stopping Work” page on our website is a good place to start.

The amount you receive from long term disability insurance depends largely on your earnings before you became unable to work, as well as the terms of your specific policy. Most LTD plans—whether through your employer or purchased privately—typically pay between 50% and 75% of your pre-disability income. Some policies provide a set monthly amount, while others calculate your benefit based on your average earnings if your income varies.

If you earn a regular salary, your payments are usually based on that stated amount. For hourly or variable income, the insurer may average your wages over a certain period to determine your benefit. It's important to review your policy closely to understand exactly how your payments will be calculated.

LTD benefits don’t begin right away. Most policies have a waiting period—often three to six months—during which you may receive short term disability benefits through your workplace or Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits from the government. Once that period ends, your LTD benefits can begin and may continue for several years, often up to age 65 or longer with private policies, as long as you remain eligible.

Understanding how much you’ll receive can bring peace of mind during a difficult time. If your claim is denied or delayed, a disability lawyer can help ensure you're receiving the full benefits you're entitled to.