Don’t give up just because your short-term disability claim has been unfairly denied or terminated. Get in touch and protect your entitlement to income replacement
Insurance companies and employers may deny and terminate legitimate short-term disability claims because they’re trying to minimize their payout.
Trust our short-term disability lawyers:
- Gather medical evidence and prepare a strong claim on your behalf
- Vigorously represent your claim before insurance companies and employers
- Pursue all legal options that maximize your payout and compensation
- Protect your from the unfair insurance appeals process
- Level the playing field with short-term disability lawyers who have represented and won before major insurance providers such as Manulife, Sun Life, RBC, Desjardins, Equitable Life, Empire Life and Canada Life
Get the income replacement you are entitled to and the time you need to recover from your injury with seasoned short-term disability lawyers.
We also represent clients for long-term disability claims.
Let our short-term disability lawyers protect your income and standing within the company
It’s this simple…if your workplace insurance plan provides short-term disability coverage, you can make a claim for a wide range of physical, mental and emotional illnesses, injuries and conditions. Some examples are:
- Depression or anxiety diagnosis by a qualified healthcare professional
- Hearing issues due to an accident
- Physical injuries that prevent you from performing your duties
- Chronic pain that prevents you from performing daily tasks
- Post-surgery rehabilitation, including time in hospital, physical therapy and more
- Other conditions that prevent you from working, such as serious digestion issues and breathing difficulties
Short-term disability benefits compensate you when you are unable to work
If you’re unable to work due to an illness or injury, short-term disability (STD) benefits can provide essential financial support. These benefits are part of a contractual agreement between you and the payor, which could be your employer or an insurer, to ensure you receive income when you’re unable to perform your regular job duties.
The length of short-term disability benefits varies based on your policy but generally covers a period of 12 to 26 weeks. Once the STD period concludes, your next steps will depend on the specific provisions of your policy. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with the terms of your benefits.
To qualify for STD benefits, you need to meet the policy’s definition of being “totally disabled.” This doesn’t mean you have to be completely unable to perform any task. The term “total disability” is defined differently in each policy, so your eligibility will depend on your unique circumstances.
Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny these claims, making it crucial to have a dedicated short-term disability lawyer in Toronto on your side. An experienced lawyer can challenge denials and help you secure the benefits you’re legally entitled to.
If you’re uncertain whether you qualify, we offer free consultations to help clarify your situation. Call us at 416-363-1112 to discuss your case and get the support you need to navigate your short-term disability benefits claim.
5-step process for filing a short-term disability claim (and why you may need a lawyer for a short-term disability claim)
Navigating STD claims can be challenging, but understanding the process will help increase your chances of success. If you run into any issues, reach out to our Toronto short-term disability lawyers near you for guidance.
1. Check If You Qualify
Before applying, confirm you meet your plan’s criteria. Some plans require you to use all paid time off, like sick leave or vacation days, before qualifying for STD benefits. Review your group benefits booklet or talk to your plan administrator for details.
2. Get Your Doctor’s Support
You can’t apply for STD benefits without your doctor’s backing. Schedule an appointment to discuss your condition and confirm they support your leave. Your doctor will also need to fill out a required form for your claim.
3. Collect and Complete the Forms
You’ll need three main forms: the Notice of Claim/Employee Statement, the Employer’s Report, and the Attending Physician’s Statement. You only need to fill out the Employee Statement and have your doctor fill out the Attending Physician’s Statement. Although the names of these forms may vary, the information the forms require are typically similar. Get these forms directly from your employer or insurer and ensure that all forms are properly completed and signed.
4. Submit All Documents Together
It’s best to submit your completed application and doctor’s reports, and any additional documents in one package. This minimizes processing delays and reduces the risk of your claim being rejected.
5. Cooperate with the Insurer
If the insurance company asks for more details, provide the requested information promptly. Working in good faith helps build credibility and supports your claim.
Once submitted, your claim will either be approved or denied. If denied, contact a short-term disability lawyer in Toronto to guide you through the appeals process. A Toronto short-term disability lawyer near you can help build a stronger case and increase your chances of approval.
Whether you’re starting a claim or dealing with a denial, a Toronto short-term disability lawyer near you can provide the expert advice needed to navigate the complexities of your STD benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for a short-term disability claim?
No, you can file and manage your STD claim yourself. However, if your medical diagnosis is not properly evidenced and a strong case for STD benefits is not made, there is a good chance that your claim will be denied. If that happens, you can get mired in the convoluted internal appeals process that insurance companies will put you through.
Having a lawyer for a short-term disability claim means a strong claim is filed on your behalf from the get-go. We help you prepare a strong medical case for your STD claim, and represent you before the insurance company and employer.
If you reach out once your claim has been denied, our short-term disability claim lawyers can explore the full breadth of legal opportunities, including negotiation, settlement, and court trial to assert your rights.
What should I do if my short-term disability claim is denied?
If your short-term disability claim is denied, don’t give up. Insurance companies often reject valid claims to minimize payouts. Start by understanding the reason for denial in the letter you received. You have the right to appeal, but acting quickly is crucial. Gather all the necessary medical evidence, and consult a Toronto short-term disability lawyer. A lawyer can help you build a strong appeal and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
How can a short-term disability lawyer in Toronto help me with my claim?
A short-term disability lawyer in Toronto can guide you through every stage of your claim. They’ll help gather relevant medical records, fill out complex forms, and represent you in negotiations with the insurer. If your claim has been denied or terminated, a lawyer can challenge the decision by presenting a strong case on your behalf. Their expertise helps level the playing field against large insurance companies and increases your chances of securing benefits.
What medical conditions qualify for short-term disability benefits?
Short-term disability benefits cover a wide range of conditions, including both physical and mental health issues. Commonly covered conditions include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic pain, post-surgery recovery, hearing loss, and severe digestive or respiratory problems. To qualify, your condition must prevent you from performing essential components of your job duties. It’s advisable to consult a short-term disability lawyer near you in Toronto to confirm if your specific condition meets the policy’s definition of disability.
How long can I receive short-term disability benefits?
The duration of short-term disability benefits varies depending on your policy. Typically, benefits last between 12 to 26 weeks. Once this period ends, you might be eligible for long-term disability benefits, depending on the policy terms. It’s essential to review your policy and discuss your options with a Toronto short-term disability lawyer to understand what comes next and ensure you continue receiving financial support during your recovery.
Can a Toronto short-term disability lawyer help if my employer is pressuring me to return to work?
Yes, if your employer is pressuring you to return to work before you’re medically ready, a Toronto short-term disability lawyer can intervene. They’ll communicate directly with your employer and the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected. Employers cannot force you back to work if your medical condition prevents it. A lawyer can help you navigate these challenges and make sure you have the time needed to recover fully.
What happens if my short-term disability claim is terminated early?
If your claim is terminated before you’re ready to return to work, you have the right to dispute this decision. Insurance companies sometimes cut off benefits prematurely, citing insufficient medical evidence or improvement in your condition. Reach out to a short-term disability lawyer near you in Toronto as soon as possible. They can review your case, gather additional evidence, and engage with the insurer to reinstate your benefits, ensuring you get the time and financial support needed to recover.
What costs are associated with hiring a short-term disability lawyer in Toronto?
Short-term disability lawyers in Toronto work on a contingency fee basis in many cases, meaning we only get paid if you win your case or reach a settlement. This arrangement eliminates upfront costs and financial risk for you. The exact percentage can vary depending on the complexity, scope, and chances of success.
Our team discusses fees during your initial consultation, and our goal is to help you make an informed decision. We eliminate fee surprises during and after the case, and the contingency fee is clearly written down in the retainer.
Our STD lawyers are transparent about our fee structure, ensuring you understand how costs will be handled before moving forward with your case.
Note that this FAQ provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with Unified’s experienced short-term disability lawyer for personalized guidance regarding your specific situation.
