Long Term Disability & Maternity Leave
Navigating the complexities of long term disability (LTD) can be especially challenging when maternity leave is a factor. When planning to start or grow your family, you need to know how your LTD benefits work during maternity leave.
Our guide explains the relationship between long term disability and maternity leave so you can protect your benefits during this important time in your life.
If you’re seeking counsel on long term disability and maternity leave, Share Lawyers will help you understand your situation and choose the best path forward.
Long Term Disability & Maternity Leave: What You Need to Know
In Canada, LTD insurance does not directly cover maternity leave because maternity leave isn’t considered a disability. While this seems straightforward, people often encounter more questions than answers when wrestling with LTD and maternity leave.
Long Term Disability & Maternity Leave FAQs | |
Can I receive LTD benefits during maternity leave? | No. LTD benefits are unpaid during maternity leave. However, if complications prevent you from returning to work after maternity leave ends, LTD benefits may become applicable. |
What happens if I was on LTD before my maternity leave? | If you were on LTD before starting your maternity leave, you could transition to maternity leave EI benefits and then resume LTD benefits if you remain unable to work due to medical reasons after your maternity leave ends. |
What documentation is needed to qualify for LTD after maternity leave? | Clear and detailed medical documentation from your healthcare provider is essential to qualify for LTD benefits after maternity leave. Ensure your doctor provides comprehensive records to support your claim. |
What should I do if my LTD claim is denied? | If your LTD claim is denied, consider consulting a disability lawyer who specializes in LTD claims, like Share Lawyers. We can help you navigate the complexities of your policy and advocate on your behalf. |
When Does LTD Apply During Maternity Leave?
Although maternity leave is not classified as a disability, long term disability coverage can come into play during or after maternity leave if complications arise that hinder your ability to return to work as expected.
Below are some scenarios where long-term disability benefits might be applicable.
- Pregnancy Complications: If you develop severe pregnancy-related complications, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, that prevent you from working before your due date, LTD benefits may be available if your short term disability benefits are exhausted.
- Postpartum Complications: After childbirth, some women may experience complications that delay their return to work. This could include severe postpartum depression, complications from a C-section, or other health issues. In these cases, if you cannot return to work after your maternity leave due to these conditions, your LTD insurance may provide financial support.
- Transition Between LTD & Maternity Leave: Expert opinions and functional assessments back your claim with professional insights.
- Extended Recovery: LTD benefits may apply after your baby is born if medical complications delay your recovery. It’s essential to have clear medical documentation to support your claim.
Should I Opt Out of Long Term Disability During Maternity Leave?
It’s generally advisable not to opt out of your LTD coverage during maternity leave. If unforeseen events like illness, injury, or complications such as postpartum depression occur while you’re on leave and you’ve opted out of your LTD coverage, you may not be eligible for benefits.
Doing so could leave you unprotected when you need support the most. Keeping your LTD coverage in place ensures you remain covered for any complications that might arise during this critical time.
Safeguard Your Benefits with Share Lawyers
Maternity leave is a transformative time with unexpected challenges. Understanding the relationship between long term disability and maternity leave prepares you to face these potential hurdles.
When you need someone to advocate for you, turn to Share Lawyers. For over 35 years, we’ve represented Canadians like you to defend their rights and protect the long-term disability benefits they depend on.
“The service from Share Lawyers was great; they made sure that every step of the process was not complicated. I am so happy I used Share Lawyers as my case was settled quickly and they take the time to understand what you are going through to get your point across to the insurance company. Everyone I have spoken to at Share Lawyers was great. I highly recommend Share Lawyers and thank them for getting me my settlement.”
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Reach out for a free consultation today. If we take on your case, you won’t owe us anything until you win.
Do you still need more information on the relationship between long term disability and maternity leave? A quick conversation with one of our lawyers can help you understand your situation and provide a path forward.
Contact Share Lawyers today and let our 35+ years of experience work for you. We can help you win your case againstCanada 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.
