If you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, short-term disability (STD) benefits through Manulife can provide temporary income support.
But getting approved isn’t always simple.
Delays, requests for additional medical information, and even denied claims are common — especially in the early stages of a claim.
Understanding how Manulife short-term disability works can help you avoid mistakes that could affect your benefits — and your transition to long-term disability.
What Is Manulife Short-Term Disability?
Manulife short-term disability (STD) provides income replacement if you’re temporarily unable to work due to a medical condition.
These benefits are usually part of:
- Employer group benefits plans
- Workplace disability coverage
STD is designed to cover the initial period of disability, before long-term disability begins.
How Much Does Manulife Pay for Short-Term Disability?
Most STD policies provide:
- 60% to 100% of your income
- For a limited period of time
Your exact entitlement depends on:
- Your employer’s benefits plan
- Your salary and coverage level
- Whether your benefits are taxable
How Long Does Manulife Short-Term Disability Last?
Short-term disability benefits typically last:
- Up to 15–26 weeks, depending on your plan
In many cases, STD benefits end when:
- You return to work, or
- You transition to long-term disability
How to Apply for Manulife Short-Term Disability
To apply, you’ll usually need to submit:
- An employee statement
- An employer statement
- Medical documentation from your doctor
Providing clear, detailed medical evidence early on is critical.
Why Manulife May Delay or Deny a Short-Term Disability Claim
Even though STD is meant to be temporary, claims are not automatically approved.
Common issues include:
- Insufficient medical information
- Lack of objective medical evidence
- Questions about your ability to perform your job
- Delays in submitting forms or documentation
- Disputes about whether your condition prevents you from working
What to Do If Your STD Claim Is Denied or Cut Off
If your Manulife short-term disability claim is delayed, denied, or stopped:
- Don’t assume the decision is correct
- Make sure your medical evidence clearly supports your inability to work
- Be cautious about relying only on internal appeals
Early decisions can impact your ability to transition to long-term disability benefits.
Medical Conditions and Short-Term Disability
Manulife may approve STD benefits for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Physical injuries
- Post-surgical recovery
- Chronic illnesses
- Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or burnout
Mental health claims are increasingly common — but they are also more likely to be questioned or reviewed closely.
Can Manulife Monitor or Investigate Your Claim?
Yes — and it’s more common than many people expect.
Manulife may:
- Review your social media activity
- Request updated medical records
- Conduct surveillance
This is often used to assess whether you meet the definition of disability — especially after the two-year mark.
Key Takeaways
- Manulife STD provides temporary income replacement
- Claims can be delayed or denied, even early on
- Strong medical evidence is critical from the start
- STD often leads into long-term disability
Speak to a Disability Lawyer About Your Manulife Claim
If you’re dealing with a Manulife disability issue, getting advice early can make a big difference.
A short-term disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can review your case, help gather the right evidence, and deal directly with the insurer. Our team has helped thousands of Canadians get answers and recover fair compensation.
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Disclaimer: This guide was created by Samfiru Tumarkin LLP. It is an independent resource designed to help individuals understand their insurance rights and the appeals process. It is not produced by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Manulife or any other insurance provider.