If you are wondering how long you have to file a long-term disability claim, there is no easy way to answer this question. The time limit for filing your claim will vary, depending on the language of your policy.
Time to File a Long-term Disability Claim
Your employee benefits administrator or the human resources person at your company should be able to provide you with a guide that explains how to apply for long-term disability (LTD) benefits. It will include the form you need to fill out to make your claim and will explain what will happen after the insurer it.
- Waiting Period to Receive LTD Benefits
Your policy may specify that there is a waiting period that you need to serve before you can start receiving benefits if your claim is approved. You should start filling out your application for LTD benefits as soon as you feel there is a possibility you may not be returning to work after your short-term disability benefits expire, as forms may need to be submitted several weeks before the end of the waiting period. Your benefits may be delayed if you submit your forms later than this point.
- Attending Physician’s Report Required
The claim for LTD benefits must be accompanied by an attending physician’s report. Your doctor will need to complete a form describing your claimed condition. If you have undergone any tests or seen any medical specialists, copies of the results and/or reports will need to be included with the physician’s report.
It may take some time for your doctor to complete the form, and you will need to allow for this when deciding when to file a long-term disability claim. It’s best to start preparing for this possibility sooner rather than later; get the necessary forms and ask your doctor to fill them out.
- Employer Statement
When you receive a guide explaining how to apply for LTD and the application form, your employer will submit an employer’s statement to the insurance company. It will confirm your effective date of insurance coverage, your monthly earnings, the position you hold and other information that is required to assess your claim.
If you have submitted a claim for long term disability and have been turned down for benefits or have questions or concerns about this process, contact Conte Associates by calling 1-877-614-0008. Based in Whitby, Conte & Associates works with clients in Whitby/Oshawa, and in the following cities in Ontario: Oshawa, Ajax, Pickering, Clarington, Newcastle, Courtice, Bowmanville, Newcastle, Port Perry, Belleville, and Peterborough.
