If your Desjardins long-term disability benefits are delayed, cut off, or denied, you still have options.
Long-term disability (LTD) benefits through Desjardins are meant to replace your income if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury.
But many Canadians quickly discover that getting approved — and staying approved — isn’t always easy.
This guide explains how Desjardins long-term disability works, including:
- How claims are assessed
- When payments are made
- Why benefits get denied or stopped
- What you can do to protect your claim
What Is Desjardins Long-Term Disability Insurance?
Desjardins long-term disability (LTD) insurance is typically provided through a group benefits plan offered by your employer.
If you’re unable to work due to a medical condition, LTD benefits can replace a portion of your income — often between 60% and 70% of your salary.
To qualify, you must:
- Have a medical condition that prevents you from working
- Be under ongoing care from a doctor
- Meet the definition of disability in your policy
How Do You Apply for Desjardins LTD Benefits?
Applying for LTD benefits involves submitting several forms and supporting documents.
This usually includes:
- An employee statement describing your condition
- An attending physician statement completed by your doctor
- An employer statement confirming your job details
- Medical records and supporting documentation
Even if your doctor supports your claim, approval is not guaranteed.
Desjardins may:
- Request additional medical information
- Ask for updates throughout your claim
- Conduct ongoing reviews of your condition
Desjardins Long-Term Disability Payment Dates
Once approved, LTD benefits are typically paid on a monthly basis.
However, payment timing can vary depending on:
- Your policy terms
- The date your claim is approved
- Administrative processing timelines
What To Expect:
- Payments are usually issued once per month
- Delays can occur if documentation is missing
- Payments may be paused if your claim is under review
If Your Payments Are Late or Stop:
- Contact the insurer for clarification
- Confirm all required medical updates have been submitted
- Consider getting legal advice if delays continue
Why Do Desjardins LTD Claims Get Denied?
Many valid disability claims are denied — even when supported by medical evidence.
Common reasons include:
- “Insufficient medical documentation”
- Disagreement about your ability to work
- Missed deadlines or incomplete forms
- Surveillance or claim investigations
- Changes to your eligibility after a reassessment
The 2-Year Rule: Why Benefits Often Get Cut Off
Most Desjardins LTD policies change after two years.
You go from:
- Being unable to do your own job
to - Being unable to do any job
This shift is one of the most common reasons benefits are cut off.
Even if your condition hasn’t improved, the insurer may argue that you’re able to work in another role.
What to Do if Your Desjardins Disability Claim Is Denied
If your claim is denied or your benefits are cut off, you still have options.
You may be able to:
- Request an internal appeal
- Submit additional medical evidence
- File a complaint with Desjardins
- Escalate your case to the ombudsman
- Take legal action to recover your benefits
The right strategy depends on your situation — and acting quickly is important.
How the Desjardins Appeal Process Works
If your claim is denied, Desjardins may allow you to appeal the decision internally.
This usually involves:
- Submitting new or updated medical information
- Requesting a review of the decision
- Waiting for a reassessment by the insurer
However, internal appeals can be challenging — especially if your claim has already been denied once.
Common Issues With Desjardins LTD Claims
Even after approval, problems can arise at any time.
These include:
- Delays in benefit payments
- Repeated requests for medical updates
- Sudden claim reassessments
- Pressure to return to work
- Benefits being cut off without clear explanation
Key Takeaways
- Desjardins long-term disability benefits provide income support if you can’t work
- Claims require strong medical evidence and ongoing updates
- Payment delays and interruptions are common
- Many claims are denied or cut off after reassessment
- You have options if your claim is denied or mishandled
Speak to a Disability Lawyer About Your Desjardins Claim
If you’re dealing with issues related to your Desjardins long-term disability claim — including delays, denials, or ongoing reassessments — it may help to get clear answers about your situation.
A disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help you understand:
- Whether your claim is being handled fairly
- What your options are moving forward
- What steps you can take to protect your benefits
There’s no cost to speak with our team.
FAQ
How long does Desjardins take to approve a long-term disability claim?
Most claims take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on how quickly medical documentation is provided.
Can Desjardins stop my disability payments?
Yes. Benefits can be stopped if the insurer believes you no longer meet the definition of disability under your policy.
Do I have to appeal a denied Desjardins LTD claim?
Not always. In some cases, other options may be available depending on your situation.
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 Desjardins or any other insurance provider.