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Some insurance policies issue payments for a certain amount of years, while other policies may stop payments after up to a decade. The question, unfortunately, does not have a definitive answer, as every insurance policy is unique.
When you read over your employer’s group benefits package, or even if you purchase your own private insurance, ensure that you read through the policy carefully to ensure that you understand the long-term disability requirements. Understanding the requirements, application deadlines, waiting periods and duration of benefit payouts is important.
While every insurance policy handles long-term disabilitycoverage and benefits differently, there are certain aspects to these policies that are mandated by law – this depends on your ability to return to work before your injury and your ability to work, period. There are certain policies that will stop benefits indefinitely after 2 years if you are able to return to any full-time work (regardless if it pays the same as your pre-injury job), while some insurance policies will continue paying out benefits at a reduced rate if you end up securing a new position that pays less than your previous employer. If however, you are unable to return to work, long-term benefits could last for a number of years.
If you become disabled during employment, Long-term disability insurance coverage pays benefits. Under most LTD policies, in order to qualify for these benefits, you would need to prove that you are unable to continue working as a result of a medical condition. These medical conditions can include physical, psychological, cognitive, and emotional – or a combination of any of the above. If you qualify for LTD coverage, the payout for benefits ranges between 60%-70% of your pre-disability income. There are certain policies that cover less, but most policies will pay benefits for qualified individuals up to age 65.
Long-term disability payments are never available immediately and considered a last resort after short-term disability options have been exhausted. Before you can be approved for LTD payments, you must go through short-term options first – even if following a serious, catastrophic injury. Short-term options may include sick leave and short-term disability benefits.
If you are fortunate enough to have an employer that has provided you with a group medical benefits package, it is likely that you have insurance for Long Term Disability (LTD) coverage, which may also grant you coverage if you have been laid off or terminated from your job. If you do not have group benefits through your employer, you have the option of purchasing a private LTD plan.
There are strict deadlines that go along with long-term disability claims, so it is important to carefully read through your policy to understand the time limits. Failure to submit a claim on time can result in your claim being denied.
If you submitted an LTD application and your claim is denied, you will not receive any payments and will be expected to return to work. Claims can be denied for numerous reasons, such as incomplete information, unclear or improper medical treatment or diagnosis etc. Keep in mind, diagnosing mental health can be complex, but insurers are very specific in their guideline requirements. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision – an appeal process will commence, which is why it is important that you contact a trusted lawyer that specializes in such long-term disability cases.
When understanding the length of your LTD policy, it is important to understand the language and the integral details you should be aware of. At Tim Louis Law, we are experienced with the process of filing long term disability claims and look forward to discussing your unique situation with you. Contact us today for a free consultation by
calling (604) 732-7678 or email timlouis@timlouislaw.com
Source:
https://www.bclaws.ca/civix/document/id/loo69/loo69/13_409_97
(604) 732-7678
www.timlouislaw.com
2526 West 5th Ave,
Vancouver, BC V6K 1T1
 
ABOUT VANCOUVER, BC BASED LAW FIRM SPECIALIZING IN LONG-TERM DISABILITY, PERSONAL INJURY, EMPLOYMENT LAW AND ESTATE LITIGATION.
At the law firm of Tim Louis and Company, we are committed to helping people through difficult times. Starting with a free consultation, we help people who need it most to get the compensation they deserve. Our practice includes Long-Term Disability, Personal Injury, Employment Law and Estate Litigation. With over four decades of experience, Tim Louis has helped people across British Columbia get legal help when they need it most.
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