How Can I Change My Insurer's Mind Once They Deny My Benefits at the "Change of Definition" Point?
In a long term disability claim, the change of definition usually refers to a change in the definition of what disability means in the insurance policy. This change of definition usually occurs after you have been receiving benefits for 24 months. The change of definition usually refers to a transition from an "own occupation" definition, to an "any occupation" definition. During the initial disability period, benefits are payable if you are unable to work at your "own occupation." After the change, benefits are payable only if you cannot work at "any occupation" for which you have the required education, skill, or experience. There are variations on the wording, but this summarizes the typical "change of definition".
Once you reach the change of definition point, it can be difficult to change your insurer's mind, short of taking formal legal action, unless there is some dramatic medical evidence or change in your condition that makes it clear that you are totally disabled from working in any capacity. Keep in mind that the initial denial is only their interpretation of your case, using the expertise of their team of doctors to review your medical records, none of whom have your best interests in mind. Their concern is the savings they have if they don't pay your claim.
Many insurers believe that very few people can actually qualify for benefits in the "any occupation" period. However, our legal system doesn't look at this the same as an insurance company. At Share Lawyers, we are often successful in winning these claims on behalf of our clients. Our concern is getting you the benefits you deserve in order to live without financial worry while you look after your health. Therefore, the reason for denial needs to be reviewed carefully by reading the insurance policy and by reviewing your individual circumstances. Let us put our years of experience to work for you and help you win back the benefits you deserve!
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A note from our long term disability lawyers
Taking a medical leave from work is not an easy decision to make. Concerns about providing for yourself and your family and keeping your job may cause you to want to push through your pain, but this won’t make your problems go away. Stopping work is often the smartest decision for your long term health and well-being, and your disability benefits are there to provide you with financial support until you can return to work.
If you have made the tough decision to stop working and apply for your short term disability or long term disability benefits, you may feel overwhelmed by the process and have questions that your employer and your insurance company are not able or willing to answer. Share is There to see you through and answer your questions.
Our disability law firm knows what you have been going through
We understand that things have not been easy for you over the last little while. Your health has been suffering, you are unable to work, and now your insurance company, who was supposed to be there in your time of need, has decided they will not pay your disability benefits or respect your disability claim. These benefits exist to provide you with the financial support you need so that you can focus on your health and rebuilding your life. It is unfortunate that your insurance company has not lived up to its promise. If your disability claim has been denied, we will fight to get you the benefits you are entitled to. Our disability lawyers have helped thousands of Canadians get their long term disability benefits over the past 35 years, and we can help you too.
Our experienced disability lawyers can fight back on your behalf
Share Lawyers believes that every client who is dealing with a disability claim deserves superior personal service. To achieve that goal, we have developed our team of experienced, compassionate, and caring long term disability lawyers, law clerks, and administrative staff to meet all of your needs. Our team of experienced long term disability, life insurance, employment, and critical illness insurance lawyers have made successful claims against many insurance companies, third-party administrators and employers.
If you are unable to work, your disability benefits should be there to provide you with the financial support you need. While your insurance company may be focused on finding ways to avoid paying your claim, our focus is on what is in your best interest. When Share Lawyers gets involved, you have an entire team of lawyers that are there to support you and to fight for what is yours.
Our disability claim lawyers fight for your disability insurance claim by relying on our many years of experience to apply the best strategic planning and approach in each case, using the latest technology available. Experience matters, and with Share Lawyers, you are in the best hands with 35 years of success on your side.
In this video, we explain the role of a long term disability lawyer and how we can support you when you have been denied your long term disability benefits.
Denied your long term disability claim?
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. We offer free consultations and there are no fees unless you win your case. Join us on Facebook and become a Top Fan for a chance to win each month.
