Manulife Disability Investigations: Can They Monitor or Surveil You?

If you’re receiving disability benefits through Manulife, you may be wondering whether the insurance company can monitor your activities.

The answer is yes — in some cases, Manulife may investigate or conduct surveillance to assess your claim.

This can be surprising and stressful, especially if you’re not sure what they’re looking for or how it could affect your benefits.

Understanding how Manulife investigations work can help you avoid mistakes and protect your claim.

Can Manulife Investigate Your Disability Claim?

Yes. Like other insurers, Manulife may investigate disability claims to verify whether you meet the definition of disability under your policy.

This can happen:

• When your claim is first submitted
• During ongoing reviews
• Around key points — such as the 2-year mark

What Does a Manulife Investigation Involve?

An investigation can take several forms, including:

Surveillance

Manulife may hire investigators to observe your activities in public.

This can include:

• Video surveillance
• Photographs
• Monitoring your daily routines

Social Media Monitoring

Your public social media activity may be reviewed.

This includes:

• Posts
• Photos
• Check-ins or activity updates

Medical Reviews

Manulife may:

• Request updated medical records
• Arrange independent medical assessments
• Consult internal medical professionals

Why Does Manulife Investigate Claims?

Investigations are typically used to determine whether:

• You meet the definition of disability
• Your reported limitations match your activities
• Your condition has changed

In some cases, investigations are triggered by inconsistencies or concerns in your file.

How Surveillance Is Used Against You

Surveillance doesn’t always tell the full story — but it can still be used to challenge your claim.

For example:

• A short clip of activity may be used to suggest you’re capable of working
• Normal daily tasks may be taken out of context
• Occasional activity may be interpreted as ongoing ability

What to Do If You’re Being Investigated

If you suspect your claim is being monitored:

• Continue following your doctor’s advice
• Be consistent in what you report about your condition
• Avoid activities that contradict your stated limitations
• Be cautious about what you share publicly

You don’t need to assume the worst — but it’s important to be aware.

Can Manulife Deny Your Claim Based on Surveillance?

Yes — in some cases.

Manulife may use surveillance or investigation findings to:

• Deny a new claim
• Cut off ongoing benefits
• Question your credibility

However, these decisions can be challenged — especially if the evidence is incomplete or taken out of context.

Key Takeaways

• Manulife may investigate or monitor disability claims
• Surveillance and social media can be used as evidence
• Activity may be taken out of context
• Denials based on investigations may still be challenged

Speak With a Disability Lawyer

If you’re dealing with ongoing issues with your Manulife disability claim — including delays, reassessments, or concerns about an investigation — it helps to get clear answers about your situation.

A short consultation with a disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help you understand:

• Whether your claim is being handled fairly
• How an investigation could affect your benefits
• What options you have moving forward
• What steps you can take to protect your claim