A long term disability lawyer Ottawa here to help

Work with a long-term disability lawyer in Ottawa who has the experience necessary to assist you with your short- or long-term disability claim. We offer a free, no-obligation, confidential consultation to discuss your claim, designed to reduce stress and provide clarity. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, typically taking 33% of any award or settlement only if you win your case. Our commitment is straightforward: you don’t pay unless you succeed.

With extensive experience in long-term disability law in Ottawa, we understand that more than half of valid disability claims are denied each year. We are here to help address this issue and ensure you receive benefits that you’ve earned.

Our long-term disability lawyers in Toronto lead Unified LLP’s Ontario-wide disability practice and, alongside our dedicated team, are available to clients in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

Free consultation. No fees unless we win. Call 416.787.7678.

Our Ottawa disability lawyers can help with:

  • Handling short-term disability benefits applications
  • Assessing short-term disability benefits claims
  • Contesting denied short-term disability benefits
  • Submitting long-term disability benefits applications
  • Analyzing long-term disability benefits claims
  • Challenging denied long-term disability benefits
  • Taking legal action to secure rightfully owed benefits

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Long-Term Disability Claims in Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is Canada’s capital and home to the largest concentration of federal government employees in the country. It is also one of Ontario’s largest cities, with a diverse workforce spanning the public sector, healthcare, education, technology, and construction and trades. Long-term disability claims in Ottawa have a different character from those in most other Ontario cities and the legal process for federal employees involves rules and procedures that do not apply to private-sector claims.

Unified LLP’s disability lawyers serve Ottawa and Eastern Ontario clients with experience in both private insurer LTD disputes and federal government benefit plan claims.

Call now for a free consultation 416.787.7678

Federal Government and Public Sector Employees

Federal public servants in Ottawa are among the most common LTD claimants we advise. Federal employees covered by the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP), the Disability Insurance Plan (DI Plan), or other federal benefit frameworks face a different process than workers under a standard group insurance policy.

Key things Ottawa’s federal workers need to know:

  • The federal Disability Insurance Plan is administered separately from private insurers. Its appeal process and timelines are distinct and must be followed carefully.
  • Unions, including PSAC and PIPSC, represent large numbers of federal employees in Ottawa. When LTD benefits intersect with a collective agreement, both the grievance process and a civil claim may be available and choosing the right path matters.
  • RCMP members, National Defence employees, and correctional officers may have entirely separate benefit structures. Contact our office for advice specific to your plan.
  • Federal employees do not lose their right to independent legal advice by engaging in the internal government appeal process. We can advise you at any stage.

Healthcare, Education, and Private Sector Workers

Ottawa is also home to major healthcare employers, including The Ottawa Hospital, Montfort Hospital, and Bruyère. University of Ottawa and Carleton University together employ thousands of staff with group LTD plans. Private sector workers in the city’s growing technology sector — anchored by companies such as Shopify, Nokia, and Ciena typically hold group benefits plans governed by major national insurers, including Sun Life, Manulife, and Canada Life.

Regardless of your employer or plan type, Unified LLP’s Ottawa disability lawyers will review your policy, assess the denial, and advise on the strongest path forward.

We serve clients across Ottawa, Gatineau (Ontario-side claimants), Nepean, Gloucester, Kanata, and surrounding Eastern Ontario communities. We offer consultations by phone and video — and if your matter proceeds to litigation, it will typically be heard at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Ottawa at 161 Elgin Street.

Short Term Disability Lawyer

Short-term disability (STD) benefit are usually contained within your employee benefits packages, ready to support you during temporary periods of disability.

STD and LTD benefits provide crucial income replacements for employees who are unable to work or perform their usual job functions due to illness or injury. These benefits are part of a contractual agreement between the provider (employer or insurance company) and the beneficiary (you), designed to offer financial assistance during difficult times.

STD benefits typically cover a period ranging from 12 weeks (roughly 3 months) to 24 weeks (around 6 months), depending on the policy’s terms. When needed and if eligible, STD benefits may transition into LTD benefits, which offer extended support for a longer duration.

Qualifying for STD benefits depends on the policy’s definition of being “totally disabled.” It’s important to understand that “totally disabled” does not necessarily mean completely unable to work in any capacity. This definition varies from one policy to another, highlighting the importance of understanding your specific policy’s criteria.

Insurance companies frequently deny these claims, often citing insufficient evidence or misinterpretations of policy terms. However, with the assistance of a skilled short-term disability lawyer, you can contest these denials and secure the benefits you deserve. An experienced disability insurance lawyer plays a vital role in successfully managing your claim, ensuring all necessary documentation is provided, and advocating on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.

At Unified LLP, we specialize in navigating the complexities of disability insurance claims. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to gather comprehensive medical evidence, accurately complete all required paperwork, and effectively communicate with the insurance company. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of the claims process and maximize your chances of approval.

For a no-risk, no-fee evaluation of your eligibility for disability benefits, please contact us at 416.787.7678. Our team is ready to provide the essential guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

How employees receive Short Term Disability benefits:

  • Substance dependency
  • Undergoing surgical operations
  • Recovery after surgery
  • Trauma or accidents (both short-term and long-term)
  • Healing from trauma or an accident
  • Mental health issues (both short-term and long-term), including depression and anxiety
  • Development of a new medical condition
  • Worsening of an existing health condition
  • Coping with grief from the loss of a family member

This list is not exhaustive. If ever in doubt, call our disability law firm at 416.787.7678 for a free consultation.

Long Term Disability Lawyer

Much like short-term disability benefits, long-term disability (LTD) benefits are usually a component of an your benefits package.

LTD benefits provide crucial income replacement for employees who cannot work due to illness or injury.

In cases where an employer does not offer STD benefits, LTD coverage usually begins once any employer-provided sick leave is used up or after the completion of Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits, which can extend up to 15 weeks. Understanding your rights and options under long-term disability insurance is essential, and consulting with a knowledgeable LTD lawyer can provide clarity and guidance.

The amount of LTD benefits generally falls between 60% and 80% of your regular or pre-disability income, based on the terms outlined in your disability insurance policy. Unlike STD benefits, LTD benefits can last until the age of 65, providing long-term financial support.

Eligibility for LTD benefits hinges on the policy’s definition of “totally disabled.” This term does not necessarily mean a complete inability to work in any capacity. The criteria for “totally disabled” or “total disability” can differ significantly from one policy to another, underscoring the importance of thoroughly understanding the specifics of your own policy.

At Unified LLP, our long term disability lawyers are dedicated to obtaining the financial support you need during your recovery or as you adjust to your new normal. As your legal representation, we are dedicated to pursuing all available legal avenues to support your claim, ensuring that you receive the benefits you deserve and are entitled to.

For a free assessment of your eligibility for disability benefits, please contact us at 416.787.7678.

Why employees can receive Long Term Disability benefits:

  • Cancer
  • Addiction
  • Injury/accident (temporary or permanent)
  • Back injuries
  • Arm injuries
  • Shoulder injuries 
  • Leg injuries
  • Knee injuries
  • Hand injuries
  • Head injuries
  • Recovering from injury/accident
  • Mental health illness (temporary or permanent)
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Bi-polar mood disorder
  • Substance abuse disorder
  • Obsessive compulsive disorder
  • Onset of an illness or disease
  • Migraines 
  • Epilepsy 
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Sleep disorders, such as Insomnia, Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Narcolepsy
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Chronic pain
  • Infections
  • Nervous system disorders
  • Diabetes Heart disease 
  • Lyme disease 
  • Multiple sclerosis 
  • Parkinson’s disease 
  • Flaring up of a pre-existing illness or disease 

This list is not exhaustive. If ever in doubt, call our disability lawyers at 416.787.7678 for a free and confidential consultation.

Disability Insurance Lawyer

Insurance companies have notoriously rejected over half of legitimate disability claims in Ontario.

Whether you need help with short-term or long-term disability claims, Unified LLP has a proven track record of helping clients secure the maximum benefits they are entitled to.

Choosing Unified LLP means you will work with a dedicated disability insurance attorney committed to vigorously defending your legal rights and ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.

Experienced in Disability Lawyers

Following an accident, illness, or any event that leads to disability, we understand you’re under significant stress — a reality we have repeatedly observed over the years while helping Ontarians successfully fight for their disability benefits.

We also offer a free consultation with a disability lawyer, allowing you to explore your options without any financial commitment.

By choosing Unified LLP, you gain access to a team committed to utilizing every available resource to challenge the denial of your claims. This includes taking legal action and representing you in court if necessary.

You deserve a long-term disability lawyer who combines empathy and dedication with a deep understanding of Ontario’s disability laws. At Unified LLP, our firm is home to seasoned attorneys specializing in disability claims, ready to assist you throughout the entire process. We understand the importance of minimizing financial stress, which is why we operate on a contingency fee basis, ensuring our fees are contingent upon your success in securing the benefits you deserve.

Reach out to us today to connect with disability lawyers who are dedicated to ensuring you receive every benefit you are legally owed by your employer and/or insurance provider.

Disability Benefits Lawyer

If you’re in need of a reliable long-term disability lawyer in Ontario committed to exhaustively pursuing the full benefits you deserve, consider contacting the team at Unified.

We provide a free consultation with a disability lawyer, offering you the chance to explore your legal options without any financial commitment.

Reach out to us today to engage with disability lawyers dedicated to securing every benefit you are legally entitled to from your employer and/or insurance provider.

Choosing Unified LLP for your legal representation ensures that we will deploy every resource available to overturn the denial of your claims, including, if needed, presenting your case in court before a judge.

Experienced Injury Lawyers You Can Trust

Connect with an experienced disability law firm that will help you secure the full compensation you are legally entitled to from your disability insurer. For legal support with both short-term and long-term disability claims, contact the team at Unified LLP.

Long Term Disability Ottawa FAQs

What is the process for filing a long-term disability claim?

To file a long-term disability claim, you need to gather medical documentation, complete necessary forms, and submit them to your insurance provider. Our team at Unified LLP can assist you throughout this period of time, ensuring all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted promptly.

What should I do if my long-term disability insurance claim has been denied?

If your long-term disability insurance claim has been denied, you should consult with a lawyer immediately. At Unified LLP, we can help you appeal the decision, gather additional evidence, and represent you to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

How do I qualify for long-term disability benefits?

To qualify for long-term disability benefits, you must meet your policy’s definition of “totally disabled,” which generally means you are unable to perform the duties of your job due to a medical condition. Each policy varies, so understanding the specific criteria is crucial. Our lawyers can help you interpret these terms and strengthen your claim.

Can I receive Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPPD) benefits while on long-term disability?

Yes, you can apply for Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPPD) benefits while receiving long-term disability benefits. In some cases, insurance companies require you to apply for CPPD benefits as they may offset the amount they need to pay. We can assist with both your LTD and CPPD claims to maximize your compensation.

What kind of medical conditions qualify for long-term disability?

Various medical conditions can qualify for long-term disability, including physical illnesses, injuries, mental health disorders, and chronic diseases. The key factor is that the condition prevents you from performing your job duties for an extended period of time. We can help you determine if your condition qualifies under your policy.

How long do long-term disability benefits last?

Long-term disability benefits can last until you reach the age of 65, or until you are able to return to work, depending on the terms of your policy. Our lawyers can help you understand the duration of your benefits and what to expect as you recover.

What should I do if my insurance company stops my benefits prematurely?

If your insurance company stops your benefits prematurely, you should contact a long-term disability lawyer immediately. We can review your case, challenge the decision, and work to reinstate your benefits.

What role does medical evidence play in a long-term disability claim?

Medical evidence is crucial in a long-term disability claim. Detailed documentation from your healthcare providers supports your inability to work due to your medical condition. We work with you to ensure all necessary medical evidence is gathered and presented effectively.

Can I work while receiving long-term disability benefits?

Depending on your policy, you may be able to work in a limited capacity while receiving long-term disability benefits. However, this can affect the amount you receive. It’s important to understand your policy’s terms, and we can help you navigate these complexities.

Why should I hire a long-term disability lawyer?

Hiring a long-term disability lawyer increases your chances of a successful claim. Our experienced team at Unified LLP will guide you through the claims process, handle any denials or disputes, and ensure you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to. We provide comprehensive support, from initial filing to potential court representation.

Can I consult a disability lawyer before applying for benefits?

Yes, you may consult with a long term disability lawyer Ottawa before applying for benefits.

What specific expertise does a long term disability lawyer bring to my case?

As your long term disability lawyer, the team at Unified LLP offers extensive knowledge of the federal disability benefits, long term disability insurance, the Ontario Disability Support Program Act, and all other relevant legal statutes that can be leveraged to help you maximize the compensation you’re able to receive.

I am a federal government employee in Ottawa. How does my LTD claim work?

Federal public servants in Ottawa are typically covered under the federal Disability Insurance Plan (DI Plan) administered through the Treasury Board, rather than a private group insurance policy. This plan has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and internal appeal structure. Unified LLP advises federal employees on navigating the DI Plan, understanding their rights under their collective agreement, and, where the internal process has failed, pursuing independent legal action. Whether you are represented by PSAC, PIPSC, or another federal union, contact our office for advice specific to your plan and bargaining unit.

My LTD claim was denied for a mental health condition. Is this common for Ottawa public sector workers?

Yes. Mental health conditions, including occupational burnout, depression, anxiety, and PTSD, are among the most frequently denied LTD claims in the public sector. Ottawa’s federal and provincial government workplaces have high rates of occupational stress claims, and insurers regularly dispute these claims on the grounds that the condition is insufficiently documented or that the claimant can perform modified duties. These denials are legally challengeable. Ontario’s Human Rights Code and federal human rights legislation both protect workers with psychological disabilities. Contact our office for a free review of your denial.

How long do I have to dispute a denied LTD claim in Ottawa?

In Ontario, you generally have two years from the date of the denial to commence a legal action against your insurer. For federal government benefit plan claims, different timelines may apply under the terms of the plan or federal legislation. It is important not to wait until limitation periods are strictly enforced and missing them can permanently extinguish your right to claim. Contact Unified LLP as soon as you receive a denial letter. The consultation is free, and there are no legal fees unless we recover benefits for you.

Do I need to come to Toronto to work with Unified LLP on my Ottawa LTD claim?

No. We represent Ottawa clients remotely by phone and video consultation. We handle all communications with your insurer, obtain your medical and policy records, and manage the full claims process on your behalf. If your matter proceeds to a court hearing, it will typically be held at the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Ottawa, at 161 Elgin Street. We attend all court dates on your behalf. You will not be required to travel to Toronto at any stage of your file.

This FAQ is general information only — not legal advice. Contact Unified LLP’s Ottawa disability lawyers for guidance specific to your situation.

Connect With Our Ottawa LTD Team Today

Reach out to our Ottawa LTD team for a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we recover your benefits.

Ottawa and Eastern Ontario clients are also welcome to consult our long-term disability lawyers in Toronto, who oversee Unified LLP’s Ontario-wide disability practice and are available for phone or video appointments at any time.

Call now for a free consultation 416.787.7678
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