Change of Definition LTD: What Happens at the Two-Year Review in Canada?

The change of definition is one of the most important — and stressful — stages in a long-term disability (LTD) claim. Around the two-year mark, insurers reassess whether you still qualify for benefits. Many Canadians are denied at this point, even when their medical condition hasn’t improved.

This guide explains what the change of definition means, why insurers often cut off benefits at the 24-month review, and what you can do if it happens to you.

What Is the Change of Definition in LTD?

Most LTD policies use two definitions of disability:

1. “Own Occupation” (first 24 Mmonths)

You must be unable to perform the essential duties of your own job.

2. “Any Occupation” (after 24 months)

After two years, the test becomes stricter. You must show you cannot perform any job you are reasonably suited for based on your education, training, and experience.

This shift is called the LTD change of definition. It is the single most common point where insurers deny or cut off LTD benefits.

Why Benefits Often Get Denied at the Change of Definition

Insurance companies use the 24-month review to decide whether to continue, reduce, or terminate your LTD payments. Common tactics include:

• Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs)

Insurers send claimants to doctors they select. IME reports often conflict with your own doctor’s opinion.
→ Learn more in our Independent Medical Examinations guide.

• Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs)

Used to argue you can do light-duty or part-time work.

• Vocational Assessments

Insurers identify alternative jobs they claim you can do, sometimes ignoring your limitations.

• Surveillance

Video surveillance is common when insurers prepare to deny a claim.
→ Learn more: Surveillance and Long-Term Disability.

• Return-to-Work Pressure

Some insurers push “return to work programs,” even when unsafe.
→ See Return to Work and LTD.

These strategies are why the change of definition is the top reason LTD benefits are denied in Canada.

Signs Your Insurer Is Preparing to Cut Off Your Benefits

Claimants often spot warning signs 3–6 months before the change of definition:

• More frequent requests for medical updates
• Sudden IME or FCE appointments
• New questionnaires about your daily activities
• Pressure to attempt modified duties
• Claims that you’re “capable of suitable employment”
• Reduced payment due to “all source maximum” rules (if applicable)

How the Change of Definition Affects Your LTD Payments

Even if you genuinely can’t work, the insurer may claim:

• You can work in another job
• You can return to modified duties
• You can retrain for a new profession
• You are “not totally disabled” under the Any Occupation test

What To Do If You’re Denied at the Change of Definition

If your LTD benefits are denied, reduced, or placed “under review” at the two-year mark:

1. Get updated medical documentation

Ask your doctor to clarify your functional limitations, not just your diagnosis.

2. Request your claim file

Including IME reports, surveillance, vocational assessments, and internal notes.

3. Avoid internal appeals

They rarely work and can delay your claim beyond strict limitation periods.
→ Learn more in Appeals and LTD Claims.

4. Speak to a disability lawyer immediately

Most LTD denials at the change of definition can be challenged successfully. Contact a long term disability lawyer in Canada to get expert advice and support.

FAQs About the LTD Change of Definition

Is the change of definition always at 24 months?

Most policies switch at the two-year mark, but some have different timelines.

Does the Any Occupation test mean any job at all — even minimum wage?

No. The occupation must be reasonable given your background.

Can mental health conditions qualify after the two-year mark?

Yes. Anxiety, depression, PTSD and other conditions can meet the Any Occupation test.

Do medical conditions matter at the change of definition?

Yes — functional limitations are key. See our page on What Medical Conditions Qualify for Disability in Canada.

Can I return to work part-time without losing LTD benefits?

Sometimes, depending on the policy.

Speak to a Disability Lawyer About the Change of Definition

If your LTD benefits are being reviewed or cut off at the change of definition, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our disability lawyers help Canadians in all provinces (except Quebec) challenge denials, gather medical evidence, negotiate with insurers, and recover the benefits they’re owed.

You don’t pay unless we win.

📞 Call us at 1-855-821-5900, email help@disabilityrights.ca, or use our online form for a FREE consultation.