Understanding Disability Benefits
Long term disability insurance pays recipients an ongoing income – at a specific percentage of their prior earnings – if an injury or illness keeps them off the job for an extended period. This helps to ensure economic stability at times when recipients are unable to work.
Any kind of serious injury, illness, or disability that interferes with your ability to work for a significant amount of time can qualify as a long term disability. Whether you are entitled to LTD benefits will be considered in relation to your functional impairment – or your ability to continue performing the essential tasks of your job – the severity of your condition, and the policy language.
LTD benefits are often included in employee plans, but those who are self-employed can purchase private coverage. Further, working Canadians who meet the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) eligibility requirements may qualify for disability income if they are totally disabled and have their doctor’s support.
What to Do if Your Disability Claim Was Denied
If your disability claim is denied, don’t simply accept the insurance company’s decision. The most important first step that you can take is reaching out to an experienced LTD lawyer who has the compassion and legal insight to help. While a denial can be devastating in light of everything you’re going through and in relation to the amount of effort you put into filing the claim, it’s important to forge ahead with professional legal representation on your side.
When you work with the skilled Kitchener disability lawyers at Burn Tucker and Lachaîne, you can expect clear guidance that is based on your unique circumstances. We will advocate fiercely for your legal rights and for the benefits that are rightfully yours.
Navigating the Disability Claims Process
The path forward after an LTD claim denial is challenging, but your experienced disability lawyer in Kitchener can make a significant difference in how the matter is resolved. It’s important to hire a lawyer with a proven track record and knowledge of disability law to persuade the insurance company to pay your claim. Common reasons that an insurer will deny your application for long term disability are:
- The insurer says you have provided inadequate medical evidence.
- The insurance provider claims that your illness is not so severe to be a total disability.
- The insurance company suggests that your illness results from a pre-existing condition and you are disqualified from coverage.
- The insurer claims that you failed to adequately follow its preferred treatment plan.
- The insurance provider cites filling errors.
Regardless of the reason your claim was denied, your capable LTD lawyer will develop a strategy that is tailored to your specific case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Disability Claims
The disability claims process is complex. It’s important to avoid making your claim more challenging by making any of these common errors:
- Missing policy deadlines
- Failing to follow your medical team’s advice
- Failing to provide adequate medical evidence
- Attempting to handle complex disputes with the insurer without the assistance and advice of a knowledgeable lawyer
You will have a better chance of achieving a successful appeal if you work closely with a resourceful long term disability lawyer from the start.
Why You Need a Disability Lawyer in Kitchener
If you are unable to work for an extended period – or permanently – the financial stakes are too high to fight the insurer without a lawyer working on your behalf. Your ability to continue supporting yourself and your family can hinge on the outcome of your LTD claim. A savvy Kitchener disability lawyer has the legal education to ensure that your claim is timely, complies with the policy and is supported by solid medical evidence. A thorough application long term disability claim is far less likely to be denied in the first place. If, however, your claim is ultimately denied, a lawyer with a solid understanding of disability law will take the legal steps necessary to help you obtain payment of your disability benefits.
Turn to an Expert LTD Benefits Lawyer in Kitchener for Your Disability Claim
The reliable long term disability benefit lawyers at Burn Tucker Lachaîne in Kitchener are committed to tirelessly advocating for a resolution that respects your legal rights and that pays you the income replacement you need to continue providing for your family. We are on your side and here to help, so please don’t wait to contact or call us at 519-340-0816 to schedule a free consultation and learn more today.
March 6, 2025 
