When you’re unable to work because of an illness or injury, long-term disability (LTD) benefits are supposed to provide financial security. Unfortunately, many people in British Columbia find themselves in the same situation where their LTD claim is denied or their LTD benefits are cut off, even when their doctors support that they cannot return to work.
If you’ve been denied your LTD benefits, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Insurance companies often use complicated language and strict deadlines that make the process confusing. The good news is that you don’t have to face this alone; an experienced long-term disability lawyer can help you fight back and protect your rights.
Common Reasons Long-Term Disability Claims Are Denied
Insurance companies deny LTD claims for many reasons, including:
- Lack of medical evidence: The insurer may argue that your doctor’s notes are not detailed enough, or that your condition doesn’t meet their definition of disability.
- Surveillance and social media: Some insurers hire private investigators or monitor your online activity to suggest you’re “not as disabled” as you claim.
- Missed deadlines or paperwork errors: Even small mistakes in forms can give the insurer an excuse to deny your claim.
- Pre-existing condition exclusions: If you had symptoms before coverage began, the insurer may rely on a technical exclusion to refuse payment.
Oftentimes times insurance companies will construe the evidence in the context that favours them the most, including their financial interests. An experienced long-term disability lawyer knows ways to challenge the tactics of insurance companies.
How a Long-Term Disability Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a lawyer is not just about filing paperwork. It’s about having an advocate who knows how insurers think and how courts in BC treat disability claims. Here’s what a lawyer can do for you:
- Handle communications with the insurer so you don’t feel pressured or misled by adjusters.
- Gather strong medical evidence by working with your doctors and specialists to present clear proof of your disability.
- Negotiate settlements when insurers try to lowball or drag things out.
- Take your case to court if necessary, to make sure your rights are protected.
Having a lawyer on your side shifts the balance of power. Instead of being outmatched by a billion-dollar insurance company, you have someone in your corner who knows the system.
Deadlines You Need to Know
One of the most important things to understand is that LTD denials come with strict timelines. If you miss the window to appeal or file a lawsuit, you could lose your right to fight the denial entirely.
In British Columbia, lawsuits for denied disability benefits generally must be filed within two years of the denial, but in some cases, the deadline may be shorter. That’s why it’s critical to speak with a lawyer as soon as you receive a denial letter.
Real-World Examples
Here are some common situations we’ve seen:
- A worker with chronic pain had their LTD claim denied because the insurer said there wasn’t enough “objective evidence.” After legal action, the insurer paid a full settlement.
- A postal worker with chronic back pain had her benefits cut off after two years when the insurer claimed she could work in “any occupation.” With legal help, she was able to secure her benefits.
Every case is different, but the pattern is the same. Insurance companies deny claims unfairly, and people are forced to get legal representation to win their benefits back with the help of a long-term disability lawyer.
While the lawyer’s at Taylor & Blair LLP can’t force insurance companies not to deny claims unfairly, they can make sure you get the benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
What To Do If Your LTD Claim Was Denied
If you’ve received a denial letter, don’t panic. Here are the steps you should take right away:
- Read the denial letter carefully to understand the insurer’s reasons.
- Make sure you have a copy of your entire insurance policy. Not just a brochure or summary, but a copy of the actual insurance policy.
- Gather your medical records and make sure your doctors know the insurer is denying your claim.
- Don’t give up or delay, as deadlines can run quickly.
- Contact a long-term disability lawyer for a free consultation.
The earlier you get legal advice, the better your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Disability Claims
Do I need a lawyer to fight a long-term disability denial?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but insurers have their own lawyers and claims teams. Having a disability lawyer gives you the best chance of success.
How much does a long-term disability lawyer cost?
Most disability lawyers in BC work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay unless your lawyer wins your case.
What if my insurer cuts off benefits after paying for years?
Insurers often review claims and cut off benefits after two years, arguing you can work in “any occupation.” If this happens, you may still have a strong case for ongoing benefits.
What if my appeal is denied?
Internal appeals rarely succeed because they are handled by the same insurer that denied your claim. A lawsuit filed by a lawyer is often the only way to get results.
Why Choose Our Disability Lawyers
At Taylor & Blair LLP, we have decades of experience helping people across British Columbia stand up to insurance companies. Our disability lawyers understand how devastating a denied claim can be, and we’re committed to fighting for the benefits you deserve.
We serve clients throughout the Lower Mainland and beyond, including Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Richmond, Langley, North Vancouver, and Port Coquitlam. Whether you’re dealing with Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life, Pacific Blue Cross, or another insurer, we know their tactics and how to counter them.
Being denied LTD benefits doesn’t mean the end of the road. With the help of an experienced long-term disability lawyer, you can fight back and protect your financial security. If your long-term disability claim has been denied or your benefits have been cut off, don’t wait. Contact our team today for a free consultation and let us help you get the benefits you are entitled to.