Private / group long-term disability (LTD) insurance

Forms

• Plan-specific claim kit — Employee statement + attending physician forms from the insurer

Step-by-step

1. 1. Notify the insurer early if you may be off work long term

   Some policies have strict notice clauses.

   Next: Ask for the exact forms your plan administrator requires.

2. 2. Understand how EI or CPP decisions interact with LTD offsets

   Many policies reduce payment when other income replacement is payable.

   Next: Keep copies of all insurer letters and calculation explanations.

Evidence to gather

Check off items as you collect them — progress is saved only on this device (same keys as the main benefits guide).

• Summary plan description or policy booklet for your coverage — Defines own occupation vs. any occupation tests and offsets.
• Objective hand function findings (grip, pinch, sensibility) when available — Insurers often want measurable impairment beyond pain reports.

Common reasons claims get denied

• Definition of disability not met under your policy wording
• Pre-existing condition exclusion
• Surveillance or social media inconsistent with reported limits
• Missing attending physician updates during the elimination period

Sources

• Financial Consumer Agency of Canada — insurance basics · accessed 2026-04-24