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disability insurance denial

Denied LTD in BC

Denied LTD in BC? Here’s What Happens Next

Denied LTD in BC? Here’s What Happens Next

By Long-Term Disability Lawyer Tim Louis


Being denied long-term disability can feel like losing your footing twice: once to illness, and again to disbelief. In British Columbia, you still have rights, and you still have time to act.

When an insurer tells you no, it rarely means the end of the road. Most denials are not final decisions; they’re the company’s interpretation of paperwork, timing, or medical language that can be challenged. Still, the moment you read that letter, fear sets in — How will I pay my bills? Who will believe me? What now?

Take a breath. You do not need to fight this alone. At Tim Louis & Company, we’ve helped British Columbians reclaim denied benefits for over forty years — people with chronic pain, depression, cancer, autoimmune disease, and other conditions that don’t always show on a scan. We know how insurers think, and we know how to make them listen.

If your LTD claim was denied or cut off, this guide will walk you through what that decision really means, what steps to take next, and how to protect your health and income while we challenge the denial together.

Need help now?
Call Tim Louis & Company for a free consultation.

📞 (604) 732-7678 📧 timlouis@timlouislaw.com 🌐 https://timlouislaw.com/contact-us/
English y español disponibles.

What an LTD Denial Really Means in BC

A denial does not mean you are not disabled. It means the insurer says it does not yet have what it needs. The letter is often a template with phrases like “insufficient medical evidence,” “not totally disabled under the policy,” or “pre-existing condition.” That language protects the company, not your health.

Most LTD denials in British Columbia are not final. You usually have a right to an internal appeal, and you can start a legal claim if benefits remain refused. You do not have to finish the insurer’s appeal process before filing a claim. Waiting too long can risk the two-year limitation period.

Internal appeal vs legal claim

  • Internal appeal: The insurer looks at the file again. Timelines are short, often 30 to 90 days. New medical reports can help, but the same people may be reviewing your case.
  • Legal claim: A court action under BC law. This preserves your rights and stops the clock on limitation issues.

Common reasons for denial

  • Records do not show enough “objective” proof.
  • Missing forms, signatures, or late doctor notes.
  • A paper review doctor disagrees with your treating physician.
  • The insurer says the condition is pre-existing.
  • The policy switched from “own occupation” to “any occupation” at 24 months and the insurer says you can work elsewhere.

Each of these can be challenged with the right evidence and timing. At Tim Louis & Company, we translate insurer language into plain terms, collect focused medical and vocational proof, and hold insurers to the policy and the law.

If you received a denial, keep treatment consistent, save every letter and email, and contact us early. A short call can clarify next steps and protect deadlines.

What to Do and Not Do in the First 72 Hours After Denial

Take a breath. You have options, and you have time to use them wisely.

What to do

1) Read the denial letter carefully.
Note the date, the stated reasons, and any deadlines for appeal. Keep the envelope and all pages.

2) Ask for your claim file in writing.
Request the full file from the insurer, including adjuster notes, paper review reports, IME reports, surveillance, and internal emails. Keep a copy of your request.

3) Book medical follow-ups.
See your family doctor and any specialists. Bring the denial letter so they can address the insurer’s concerns directly. Update referrals, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans.

4) Start a simple symptoms and function diary.
Write one page per day. Record pain levels, fatigue, sleep, medication effects, and what you could and could not do. Consistent notes help your case.

5) Organise your records.
Create a folder for medical reports, test results, employer letters, job description, benefits booklet, and all insurer correspondence. Save emails as PDFs.

6) Protect your income.
If you are eligible, apply for EI sickness benefits or CPP-D. These can run alongside an LTD dispute. Note interaction rules so you are not penalised.

7) Call a lawyer early.
An early review helps you avoid missed deadlines and unhelpful appeals. We can map the best path and preserve your limitation period.

What not to do

1) Do not argue by phone only.
If you speak with the insurer, follow up with an email that confirms what was said.

2) Do not stop treatment.
Gaps in care can harm your health and your case.

3) Do not rely on internal appeals alone.
You are not required to finish them, and they do not stop the two-year limitation period.

4) Do not post about your claim online.
Insurers often review social media. Context is easy to lose in a photo or short post.

5) Do not send long, emotional letters.
Keep communication factual and brief until you have advice.

Need help now?
We will review your denial letter and explain your options in plain language.
Tim Louis & Company • (604) 732-7678 • timlouis@timlouislaw.com • https://timlouislaw.com/contact-us/

Denied LTD in BC

Medical Evidence That Moves Claims

When an insurer says there is not enough proof, it can feel personal. Your pain is real, and so is your fatigue. The job here is to help the record reflect your day-to-day reality in a way decision makers understand. We will walk with you through that process.

Start with function.
Describe what life looks like. How long you can sit, stand, or focus. How far you can walk. How often symptoms flare. Note what tasks you need help with and what happens after activity. A short daily diary is more powerful than you think.

Objective tests and clinical notes.
Tests like MRIs, EMGs, sleep studies, or lab work can help. So can regular clinic notes that show patterns over time. A normal test does not cancel real limits. Ask your providers to connect the dots from findings to function. Plain language helps everyone.

Work capacity forms.
Residual Functional Capacity forms turn symptoms into clear restrictions. Safe lifting, posture limits, expected absences, and the need for breaks. Invite your doctor to be specific. Instead of words like moderate, ask for numbers, times, and examples.

Keep stories aligned.
Insurers compare your diary, doctor notes, pharmacy refills, therapy charts, and imaging. Small differences are normal. Large gaps create doubt. Bring the denial letter to appointments so your providers can respond to the concerns that were raised.

Mental health matters.
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and cognitive issues are real and disabling. Useful records include counselling notes, psychiatric opinions, scales that track symptoms, and neuropsychological testing when appropriate. Describe concentration, memory, decision making, and how stress shows up in your body. Safety plans belong in the file if needed.

Medication side effects and combined impact.
Fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, nausea. These can limit safe and reliable work. Write down what you experience and how often it happens. The combined effect of conditions and treatment often explains why steady work is not possible.

Your job, on paper.
Ask for your job description and any notes on duties or attendance. A brief employer letter that confirms essential tasks and productivity expectations can be very helpful.

CPP Disability and LTD.
A CPP D approval can support your LTD claim because both focus on capacity for work. A CPP D denial does not end your case. Share any CPP decisions so we can keep your record consistent.

You are not alone in this. We can help you gather what is needed, speak with your care team, and present your story with dignity and clarity.

 

Insurer Tactics We See and How We Counter

Insurers use patterns. Knowing them helps you stay steady and lets us respond with the right evidence.

Paper reviews.
An insurer doctor may review your file without meeting you and say you can work. We counter with detailed treating physician opinions, work capacity forms, and, when useful, independent specialists who examine you.

Surveillance.
Short clips on a good day can be used to suggest you are fine. We place the footage in context with your diary, medical notes, and the reality of fluctuating conditions. A few minutes of activity does not equal full-time, reliable work.

Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs).
These are arranged by the insurer. We prepare you, clarify the scope in writing, and request the examiner’s notes and test data. If the report is incomplete or unfair, we rebut it with focused medical evidence.

The “any occupation” switch at 24 months.
After two years many policies tighten the test for disability. We gather vocational assessments, job market data, and medical opinions that address stamina, reliability, and cognitive limits, not just job titles.

Pre-existing condition clauses.
Insurers may say your condition existed before coverage. We examine the lookback dates, policy wording, and medical records to show onset, flare, or aggravation within the insured period.

Failure to accommodate.
If your employer could not or would not accommodate safe duties, we collect the emails, schedules, and doctor notes that prove attempts were made. This supports both LTD and, when appropriate, human rights or employment claims.

You do not have to engage in a tug-of-war alone. Our job is to turn scattered records into a clear, credible story that the insurer must answer.

Free Download — Denied LTD in BC: 7 Documents Your Lawyer Needs Today

Before you appeal or respond to your insurer, make sure you’ve gathered the documents that can protect your claim.
Download our free checklist to get started.

Download the PDF

Timelines and Limitation Periods in BC

Deadlines matter. Insurers run internal appeal clocks, often 30 to 90 days from the denial letter. Courts apply limitation periods, most often up to two years for a civil claim in British Columbia. These are separate tracks. Finishing the insurer’s appeal process does not extend a court deadline.

Why this matters: some people use all the internal appeals, then learn they are out of time to sue. Others keep negotiating by phone while the limitation period quietly runs down. Both are avoidable.

What to do:

  • Save the denial letter and note every date in it.
  • Ask the insurer, in writing, for the appeal deadline and for a full copy of your claim file.
  • Speak with a lawyer early about the court limitation period that applies to your policy and denial.
  • If negotiation makes sense, we can keep talking with the insurer while we preserve your rights by filing a claim before any deadline.
  • In some cases, we may secure a tolling or standstill agreement so talks can continue without risk.

You do not need to choose between being reasonable and being protected. We can do both at the same time, in writing, and on your timeline.

 

If You Were Terminated While on LTD

Losing your job while you are ill can feel like the floor giving way. In BC, employers have a duty to accommodate medical limitations up to undue hardship. Ending employment while you are on long-term disability may raise human rights issues as well as employment and insurance claims.

Here is how we look at it:

  • Accommodation record. Emails, schedules, and doctor notes that show modified duties were requested or could have been tried.
  • Benefits and coverage. Whether LTD, life insurance, and health benefits were continued or cut off, and on what date.
  • Severance and notice. Termination without cause while sick can still require fair notice or pay in lieu, including the value of lost benefits.
  • Coordinated strategy. LTD, wrongful dismissal, and human rights claims often overlap. We align the facts, medical evidence, and timelines so your story is consistent and strong.

If you were let go while on LTD or medical leave, keep every document and see your doctor. Then call us. We will explain your options in plain language and build a coordinated plan that protects your income, your health, and your dignity.

 

Real BC Outcomes — LTD Case Snapshot (2019–2025)

Every long-term disability case is different. The court looks at evidence, credibility, and how the insurer handled the claim. The following BC decisions show the range of outcomes over the past few years. They are shared to inform, not to promise any result. Context always matters.

These public cases are drawn directly from CanLII, the Canadian Legal Information Institute, which hosts official court decisions.

Case

Year

Issue

Outcome

Lesson

Okano v. Cathay Pacific Airways Ltd., 2022 BCSC 881

2022

Termination of long-service employee with disability history

24 months’ notice adjusted for mitigation

Courts reaffirm the 24-month ceiling but adjust for efforts to find work.

McKnight v. Sun Life Assurance Co. of Canada, 2023 BCSC 1861

2023

Denial of LTD for chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia

Benefits reinstated; insurer ordered to pay costs

Courts recognise chronic pain and fatigue syndromes when well-documented.

Chand v. Zurich Life Insurance Company Ltd., 2021 BCSC 1428

2021

Denial based on surveillance and “any occupation” change

Plaintiff successful; full benefits and legal costs awarded

Short video clips did not outweigh consistent medical evidence.

Schaefer v. Mutual Life Assurance Co. of Canada, 2020 BCSC 1049

2020

Psychiatric condition; insurer alleged exaggeration

Benefits reinstated

The court stressed compassion and careful consideration for mental-health claims.

Wang v. Industrial Alliance Insurance, 2019 BCSC 1213

2019

Denial for lack of “objective” proof

Insurer ordered to pay arrears

Courts continue to reject the myth that only objective findings count.

How to read this table:
Each decision turns on the facts. The judge looks at how the insurer handled the file, whether medical records were consistent, and whether the claimant was credible and compliant with treatment. Similar facts can lead to different outcomes depending on documentation and timing.

If your LTD claim was denied or cut off, we can explain how your situation fits within this legal landscape and what steps can move your case toward resolution.

FAQ

Many denials are based on missing paperwork, limited medical detail, or an insurer’s “paper review” that downplays symptoms. It often comes down to wording, not truth. Most claims can be challenged with fuller medical and functional evidence.

No. You can start a legal claim without completing the insurer’s internal appeal process. Internal appeals do not pause the two-year limitation period to sue. Speaking with a lawyer early ensures you do not lose that window.

Detailed medical notes that explain how symptoms affect work capacity. Functional forms, daily diaries, and employer letters that describe actual job demands all help. Consistency across records matters more than a single test.

Yes, in some cases. Policies vary, but limited or therapeutic work often supports your case when done under medical advice. Keep a record of hours, symptoms, and your doctor’s guidance.

Most BC LTD claims must be filed in court within two years of the insurer’s final denial letter. This timeline can differ by policy. Always note the date on the letter and get legal advice right away.

Further Reading & Community Support

BC Human Rights Tribunal (BCHRT)
Info on discrimination, the duty to accommodate, how to file a complaint, and timelines.
https://www.bchrt.bc.ca/

CPP Disability (Government of Canada)
Who qualifies, how to apply, required medical reports, and appeal routes for Canada Pension Plan Disability.
https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/cpp-disability-benefit.html

WorkBC
Job-search tools, training programs, wage subsidies, and career services that can support return-to-work plans.
https://www.workbc.ca/

Employment Standards Branch — Termination & Benefits (BC Government)
Minimum standards for termination pay, benefits continuation, and related employment protections.
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/employment-standards-advice/employment-standards/termination-pay

Tim Louis & Company — Long-Term Disability Hub
Plain-language guides on LTD denials, evidence, timelines, and how we challenge insurers.
https://timlouislaw.com/long-term-disability-lawyer-vancouver-bc/

Tim Louis & Company — Blog
Recent BC cases, practical checklists, and step-by-step advice for LTD and employment issues.
https://timlouislaw.com/blog/

Closing Reflection

An LTD denial can make you feel unseen. Your symptoms are real, yet a letter suggests otherwise. Take heart. The law in British Columbia gives you a path forward, and your story can be told in a way that decision makers understand. With clear evidence, steady treatment, and the right guidance, many denials are reversed. You do not have to carry this alone. We are here to listen, to explain the steps in plain language, and to protect your health and income while we challenge the decision together.

Talk to Tim

Tim Louis & Company
2526 West 5th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 1T1
📞 (604) 732-7678
📧 timlouis@timlouislaw.com
🌐 https://timlouislaw.com/contact-us/

Free consultation: Email or call with your denial letter and we will review it. Clear, compassionate advice. No pressure.
English y español disponibles.

You can also download our free checklist, “Denied LTD in BC — 7 Documents Your Lawyer Needs Today,” to help you organize your information before we talk.
Having these documents ready can make your free consultation faster and more effective.

Download the PDF

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LTD for Invisible Illnesses in BC

LTD for Invisible Illnesses in BC: What You Need to Know Before You File

Living with an invisible illness in British Columbia—like fibromyalgia, PTSD, or chronic fatigue—can be overwhelming, especially when your long-term disability (LTD) claim is denied. Many insurers wrongly dismiss these conditions due to a lack of visible proof. But under BC law, your rights matter. Tim Louis, a disability lawyer with 40+ years of experience, helps clients build strong claims with medical evidence, daily journals, and legal strategy. Whether you’re filing or appealing an LTD denial, this guide outlines key steps, legal protections, and why working with an experienced advocate can help you win the benefits you deserve.

LTD for Invisible Illnesses in BC: What You Need to Know Before You File

Understanding Invisible Illnesses and Long-Term Disability

By Tim Louis

Not every disability can be seen—and that’s often where the challenges begin.

If you live with a condition like fibromyalgia, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, or PTSD, you already know how real and life-altering it can be. But because these conditions don’t show up on an X-ray or cast a visible shadow, they’re often misunderstood—not only by the public but, more importantly, by insurance companies.

In the world of long-term disability (LTD) claims, these are called “invisible illnesses.” They can affect every part of your life—your energy, your memory, your ability to concentrate or work—but they often get dismissed as “not serious enough” or “not medically proven.” That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Over the years, I’ve spoken with countless individuals in British Columbia who feel defeated—not only by their illness, but by a system that refuses to recognize it. Many clients come to me after their LTD claim has been denied, often with little explanation beyond a vague statement like “insufficient medical evidence.”

But here’s the reality: invisible illnesses are real—and so is your right to support. With the right legal strategy, you can challenge an unfair denial and get the benefits you’re entitled to.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through what you need to know before filing an LTD claim for an invisible illness in BC—including why these claims are denied, how the law protects you, and how to build a strong case that stands up to scrutiny.

 

Why LTD Claims for Invisible Conditions Are Often Denied

If you’ve already applied for long-term disability and received a denial letter, you’re not alone. In fact, claims involving invisible illnesses are some of the most commonly denied in British Columbia.

Why? The truth is, insurers often look for objective, visible proof of disability—things like scans, blood tests, or physical injuries. When your condition doesn’t show up on a lab result, they may question whether you’re “really” disabled. This bias is not only unfair—it’s out of step with modern medical understanding.

Common Denial Tactics Used by Insurers:

✔ “Lack of objective medical evidence”
✔ “Condition not considered disabling under the policy”
✔ “Insufficient documentation of functional limitations”
✔ “Pre-existing condition exclusion”
✔ “You can still work in some capacity”

One client I worked with suffered from chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). She had been employed full-time in a demanding administrative role but could no longer manage even basic tasks due to relentless exhaustion, pain, and cognitive fog. Despite years of medical appointments, testing, and specialist reports, her LTD claim was denied—twice.

What turned her case around wasn’t just more medical paperwork. It was a strategic legal approach—demonstrating how her symptoms affected her ability to function in daily life and at work and proving that the insurance company had not followed their own duty to fairly assess her claim.

It’s important to understand that insurance providers are not neutral. They are businesses—and denying claims saves them money. That’s why many invisible illness claims are denied not based on merit but based on systemic bias and financial incentive.

The good news? You don’t have to accept that denial. With the right legal advocacy and a personalized strategy, you can fight back—and win.

 

What the Law Says in British Columbia

British Columbia law recognizes that disabilities come in many forms—not all of them visible. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic pain condition, a psychiatric illness, or a neurological disorder, your long-term disability claim deserves a fair, unbiased evaluation.

But fairness isn’t always what happens. That’s where knowing your legal rights—and having a strong advocate—can make all the difference.

Your Rights Under Canadian & BC Law

In BC, most long-term disability claims fall under group insurance policies through an employer. These are governed by your insurance contract, but also shaped by broader legal principles:

The BC Insurance Act requires insurers to act in good faith. They must assess your claim fairly and reasonably—not simply look for reasons to deny it.
The Human Rights Code of British Columbia protects individuals from discrimination based on physical or mental disability, including depression, PTSD, and chronic illnesses.
The common law duty of fairness means insurers can’t unreasonably demand proof that doesn’t exist—such as expecting MRI scans for fibromyalgia, which doesn’t show on imaging.

In my 40+ years of legal practice, I’ve helped many clients reverse unfair denials by showing how their insurer ignored clear medical evidence or misapplied the terms of the policy. Sometimes, all it takes is a letter from a disability lawyer to change the conversation. Other times, we go to court—and win.

If your illness prevents you from doing your job—or any job for which you are reasonably suited—you may qualify for LTD benefits. But proving that isn’t always straightforward, especially with invisible illnesses.

That’s why understanding the legal framework is just the first step. The next is knowing how to build your case.

 

How to Build a Strong LTD Claim for an Invisible Illness

Filing a long-term disability claim when you’re dealing with an invisible illness—like fibromyalgia, major depression, PTSD, or chronic fatigue—can feel like fighting an uphill battle. But with the right approach, you can give your claim the strength it needs to succeed.

At Tim Louis Law, we believe that what doesn’t show up on a scan still matters. And we know how to help you document it effectively.

Key Steps to Strengthen Your LTD Claim:

Comprehensive Medical Evidence
Include detailed medical records, clinical notes, and letters from your family doctor and any specialists (e.g., psychiatrists, rheumatologists, neurologists). These letters should clearly explain how your condition affects your daily function—not just list diagnoses.

Daily Function Journals
Keep a written or digital journal that tracks your symptoms, limitations, and how your condition impacts your ability to work or complete basic tasks. This firsthand account can offer powerful insight that medical charts often miss.

Third-Party Statements
Ask your partner, co-workers, or close friends to write letters describing what they’ve witnessed. Their observations help paint a fuller picture of your limitations.

Support from Therapists or Counsellors
Many invisible illnesses have psychological components. A letter from a licensed therapist, psychologist, or counsellor can be an essential part of your evidence.

Don’t Go It Alone
Unfortunately, even strong claims are often denied on technicalities. That’s why it helps to speak to a disability lawyer before submitting—or appealing—a claim. At our firm, we help clients prepare claims with the goal of avoiding denial in the first place. And if you’ve already been denied, we’ll guide you through the appeal or legal action process step-by-step.

You don’t have to prove you’re “sick enough.” You just need to show how your condition makes you unable to work—and that starts with a strategy tailored to your situation.

 

Why Work with Tim Louis – Disability Lawyer Vancouver

When you’re struggling with an invisible illness, the last thing you need is to feel dismissed—by an insurance company or a lawyer. At Tim Louis Law, we understand that invisible conditions are just as real and life-altering as any visible injury.

For over 40 years, Tim Louis has been standing up to insurance providers who try to downplay or deny legitimate claims. He’s built a reputation across Vancouver and British Columbia for combining legal strength with empathy—because this isn’t just about policies and paperwork. It’s about your health, your future, and your peace of mind.

When you work with Tim, you’re not handed off to a junior associate or left waiting weeks for a callback. You speak with him directly—because that’s the level of care you deserve.

Whether your claim has been denied or you’re preparing to apply, Tim will help you navigate the system with clarity and confidence. His mission is simple: make sure you get the support you’re entitled to—without delay, without confusion, and without giving up.

 

What Clients Say About Tim Louis

“Mr. Tim Louis was on track when he said that appeals for disability tend to be unsuccessful on their own… With a legal career spanning 40 years, Tim knows how to deal with insurance companies and win. He handled my LTD appeal with precision and care. I’m so grateful I didn’t try to do it alone.”
Kimberley L.

This is just one of many stories we’ve heard from clients across British Columbia who turned to us after feeling defeated by the system. We understand how frustrating it is to live with an invisible illness—and how discouraging it can be when your claim is dismissed.

With decades of experience behind us, we’ll guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to carry this alone.

 

Explore More on Long-Term Disability in BC

Living with an invisible illness is difficult enough—fighting with your insurance company shouldn’t be part of the burden. That’s why we’ve created a collection of helpful resources tailored to long-term disability (LTD) claims in British Columbia. Whether you’re just starting the application process or dealing with a denied claim, these trusted articles can guide you forward.

Long-Term Disability Claims in British Columbia: Know Your Rights and Protect Your Interests
Understand the foundations of LTD in BC, including how to protect your legal rights and what insurance companies don’t want you to know.

Denied Long-Term Disability? Vancouver’s Trusted LTD Lawyer Can Help
Learn how Tim Louis helps clients across British Columbia appeal denied or terminated disability claims—with empathy, strategy, and experience.

Long-Term Disability Claims for Mental Health in Canada
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions are legitimate grounds for LTD. Discover how to build a strong claim.

Fibromyalgia and Long-Term Disability Claims
Tim Louis explains how to prove the disabling effects of fibromyalgia and chronic pain, especially when symptoms aren’t visible.

Chronic Pain and Disability Benefits: What You Need to Know
A detailed look at how chronic pain sufferers can access LTD—and how to fight back if your claim is minimized or denied.

Every situation is different, and every claim deserves individual attention. These articles are a great place to begin—because when you know your rights, you’re empowered to stand up for them.

chronic pain and long term disability claims

Key Takeaways – Long-Term Disability for Invisible Illnesses in BC

Invisible illnesses are legally recognized disabilities in BC. Conditions like fibromyalgia, PTSD, depression, and chronic fatigue syndrome can qualify for LTD benefits, even without visible symptoms.

LTD claims for invisible illnesses are frequently denied. Insurance companies often reject them due to “lack of objective medical evidence” or outdated policy interpretations.

You have rights under BC and Canadian law. The BC Insurance Act and Human Rights Code require insurers to act in good faith and treat physical and mental health conditions equally.

Strong documentation is critical. Use detailed medical letters, daily symptom journals, third-party statements, and specialist reports to support your case.

Legal support dramatically improves your chances. A disability lawyer like Tim Louis can help you build a winning claim or appeal an unfair denial—with clarity, strategy, and compassion.

call to action

Can I qualify for long-term disability benefits if I have an invisible illness?

Yes. In British Columbia, many people living with chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, or depression are eligible for LTD benefits—even if their symptoms are not visible. Tim Louis & Company has decades of experience helping individuals like you get approved.

Get Help with Your LTD Claim Today

If you’re struggling with an invisible illness and facing challenges with your long-term disability claim, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Tim Louis has over 40 years of experience helping clients across Vancouver and British Columbia get the benefits they deserve—especially when their conditions are misunderstood or dismissed.

Whether your claim was denied, delayed, or you’re just starting the process, Tim is here to listen, explain your rights, and fight for your future with compassion and clarity.

📞 Call us today at (604) 732-7678 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation, or
✉️ Email timlouis@timlouislaw.com to take the first step.

Let’s make sure your voice is heard—and your health protected.

Frequently Asked Questions – Long-Term Disability for Invisible Illnesses in BC

  1. What qualifies as an invisible illness for long-term disability in Canada?

Invisible illnesses include medical conditions that aren’t outwardly visible but significantly impact daily functioning. These can include:

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME)
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Depression, anxiety, and PTSD
  • Autoimmune diseases like lupus or multiple sclerosis
  • Migraines and chronic pain If your condition prevents you from working full-time, you may qualify for LTD benefits under your policy.
  1. Can you get long-term disability for mental health conditions in BC?

Yes. Under Canadian and BC law, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorder can qualify for LTD benefits if they prevent you from performing the duties of your job. Insurers must treat psychological conditions the same as physical ones.

  1. What should I do if my LTD claim is denied for an invisible illness?

If your claim is denied:

  • Request the denial letter in writing
  • Review the insurer’s reason for denial
  • Speak with a long-term disability lawyer like Tim Louis immediately You have the right to appeal or file a legal claim if the insurer has acted unfairly.
  1. How do I prove my invisible illness to the insurance company?

Documentation is key. Gather:

  • Medical records and diagnoses
  • Specialist reports (e.g., rheumatologist, psychiatrist)
  • Symptom journals or daily logs
  • Statements from employers, family, or caregivers Tim Louis can help you organize this evidence and communicate with your insurer effectively.
  1. How long does long-term disability last in British Columbia?

It depends on your insurance policy. Many LTD policies cover:

  • “Own occupation” coverage for the first 2 years (can’t do your specific job)
  • “Any occupation” coverage after 2 years (can’t do any suitable job) Some policies provide benefits until age 65 if your disability continues.
  1. Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a long-term disability claim?

Yes—especially for invisible illnesses. Insurance companies often dispute claims that lack obvious physical symptoms. A lawyer like Tim Louis:

  • Knows how to handle disability insurers
  • Can guide your appeal or lawsuit
  • Fights for fair compensation while you focus on recovery
  1. How much does it cost to hire a long-term disability lawyer in Vancouver?

At Tim Louis & Company, your initial consultation is free. If you decide to move forward, we may work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay legal fees unless we win your case. This gives you peace of mind during a difficult time.

  1. What are the deadlines to file or appeal a long-term disability claim in BC?

Deadlines vary by policy, but typically:

  • Initial LTD claims must be filed within 90–180 days of your disability
  • Appeals are often due within 30–60 days of a denial
  • Legal action (a lawsuit) must be filed within 2 years of the denial under BC’s Limitation Act
    Always consult a lawyer promptly to protect your rights.

 

Trusted Canadian Resources for Long-Term Disability and Invisible Illnesses in BC

Navigating a long-term disability claim while managing an invisible illness can be challenging. These trusted Canadian and BC-specific resources offer valuable support, benefit information, and condition-specific tools to help you move forward with confidence.

Government and Disability Benefit Information

Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits – Government of Canada
www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-sickness.html
If your illness or condition prevents you from working temporarily, you may be eligible for up to 15 weeks of EI sickness benefits. This is a first step for many before accessing long-term disability coverage.

WorkSafeBC – Chronic Pain & Psychological Conditions
www.worksafebc.com/en/claims/benefits-services/health-care/conditions/chronic-pain
WorkSafeBC offers guidance on how chronic pain, PTSD, and psychological injuries are assessed and treated in the BC workers’ compensation system. Even if your case isn’t work-related, their resources may help you understand your symptoms and documentation requirements.

Canada Life – Disability Insurance Information
www.canadalife.com/insurance/disability-insurance.html
One of the largest LTD insurance providers in Canada, Canada Life outlines what to expect when filing a claim, timelines, and how your condition may be evaluated under a group or individual policy.

Condition-Specific Support in BC

Canadian Mental Health Association – BC Division
www.cmha.bc.ca
CMHA BC offers mental health programs, counselling support, and advocacy for those struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other invisible psychological conditions. Their site includes regional resources and guides for navigating health and disability services.

MS Society of Canada – Disability Benefits for MS Patients
www.mssociety.ca
Designed for Canadians living with multiple sclerosis, this resource explains how MS symptoms may qualify for disability support. You’ll find tools for communicating with your insurer and real-life stories from others navigating the system.

Fibromyalgia and ME/CFS Society of BC
www.fm-cfs.ca
This local BC society offers condition-specific support, peer connections, and legal advocacy tips for those with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome. Learn how to document symptoms and prepare stronger LTD applications.

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