Empire Life Long-Term Disability: A Complete 2024 Guide

Dealing with long-term disability claims can be challenging, especially when navigating through the specific processes and rules of major insurance providers like Empire Life.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Empire Life’s long-term disability (LTD) benefits, including how to apply, what happens after two years of receiving benefits, the payment schedule, and how to appeal a denied claim. If you’re covered under Empire Life group benefits or hold an individual policy, this guide will provide essential insights to help you secure the financial support you deserve.

Complete Guide to Empire Life Long-Term Disability Claims

About Empire Life and Long-Term Disability

Empire Life is a Canadian insurance company founded in 1923 and based in Kingston, Ontario. It offers a range of financial products, including long-term disability (LTD) insurance, life insurance, and group benefit plans. Empire Life provides insurance solutions for both individuals and businesses across Canada, with policies designed to offer income replacement and financial protection in cases of illness, injury, or death.

In addition to insurance products, Empire Life also offers investment services, aiming to meet the financial planning needs of its clients.

Empire Life Long-term Disability Benefits

Empire Life’s long-term disability insurance is designed to provide financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a serious illness or injury. These benefits help replace a portion of your income while you focus on recovery.

Empire Life offers two primary types of LTD policies:

• Group Insurance Plans: These plans are typically provided by employers as part of workplace benefits packages. Your long-term disability benefits in this plan will depend on the specific terms laid out in the group benefits booklet or certificate of insurance. It’s crucial to review this document, which should be available from your employer or union, to understand the details of your coverage.
• Individual Insurance Plans: This type of plan is tailored for self-employed professionals, business owners, or executives. Individual disability insurance provides customized benefits, and you are responsible for purchasing the policy through an insurance broker. These policies can offer higher coverage amounts and more flexible terms.

Empire Life’s long-term disability benefits typically kick in after short-term disability benefits or other forms of income support, such as employment insurance (EI), have been exhausted. Whether you’re covered under a group or individual plan, understanding your policy is key to ensuring you receive the financial support you need during a disability.

• LEARN MORE: Going from Short-Term Disability to Long-Term Disability FAQ

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How to Apply For Empire Life Long-Term Disability Benefits

Applying for Empire Life long-term disability (LTD) benefits is a critical step if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. Empire Life’s claims process requires specific documentation to demonstrate your medical condition and inability to perform your job. Whether you are covered under an Empire Life group benefits plan or an individual policy, understanding the process is essential to avoid delays or denials. Learn how to obtain your LTD policy here.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Empire Life LTD Benefits

1. Gather the Required Forms

You will need to obtain several forms before submitting your LTD claim. These include:

• Employer Statement: This form is completed by your plan administrator (typically your employer). It outlines the details of your employment and benefits coverage.
• Employee Statement: You, the employee, must fill this form out. It provides information about your health, job responsibilities, and how your condition prevents you from working.
• Initial Attending Physician’s Statement: Your doctor will need to complete this form, which details your diagnosis, treatment, and how your medical condition affects your ability to work.

2. Submit Your Claim

Once you have the necessary forms completed, you can submit them through Empire Life’s group benefits login portal or by mailing the physical documents. While Empire Life allows both methods, submitting online is faster and allows you to track the progress of your claim.

3. The Waiting Period (Elimination Period)

After submitting your LTD claim, you will typically have to wait through an elimination period (also referred to as the qualifying period), which can last between 90 to 180 days depending on your policy. During this time, you may continue to receive STD benefits, or other forms of financial assistance, until your LTD benefits kick in.

4. Approval or Denial of Your Claim

Empire Life usually takes 5 to 20 days to process LTD claims, but it could take longer depending on the complexity of the case or if additional documentation is required. You will be notified by Empire Life if your claim is approved, or if it has been denied, the reasons for denial will be provided in writing.

During this process, you may encounter challenges dealing with adjusters who handle your claim. It’s important to understand how to communicate effectively and handle any difficulties that arise. Learn more about how to manage difficult adjusters here.

5. What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If your LTD claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You have options to appeal the decision, which will be discussed in detail in the Empire Life Appeal Process section of this guide. You may need to submit additional medical evidence or clarify certain aspects of your condition to strengthen your case.

You can also get a free consultation with a disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to understand your options.

Additionally, being on LTD can sometimes raise employment-related concerns, such as how your employer handles your position or benefits during your disability. Find out how employment issues interact with long-term disability claims.

Tips for a Successful LTD Application

• Ensure Complete Medical Documentation: Incomplete or vague medical records are one of the main reasons LTD claims get denied. Make sure your doctor provides detailed documentation that clearly shows why you are unable to work.
• Submit Forms Promptly: Delays in submitting required forms can prolong the approval process. Submit your documents as soon as they are completed to avoid unnecessary waiting periods.
• Track Your Claim: If you submit your claim online through the Empire Life group benefits portal, you can monitor the status of your application and respond quickly to any requests for additional information.

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Empire Life Long-term Disability Payment Schedule

Understanding the Empire Life LTD payment schedule is essential for financial planning while you are unable to work due to illness or injury. Empire Life provides monthly payments to replace a portion of your income, helping you cover essential expenses like housing, medical bills, and daily living costs.

How Much Does Empire Life LTD Pay?

Empire Life typically pays between 60% to 80% of your pre-disability gross income. The exact percentage depends on your specific policy and factors such as your salary, the severity of your condition, and the terms outlined in your group or individual plan.

Important Factors Affecting Payments:

• Policy Maximums: Some policies have a maximum monthly benefit cap. This means that even if 60-80% of your salary would result in a higher payment, your benefit amount will not exceed the policy cap.
• Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Benefits: The tax status of your benefits depends on who pays the premium. If your employer pays for your LTD premiums, your payments are likely taxable. However, if you cover the premiums yourself, your LTD payments are typically tax-free.
• Offsets and Deductions: Empire Life may reduce your LTD payments if you receive other sources of income, such as Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability benefits or severance pay. These are called “offsets” and they can lower the amount you receive from Empire Life.

When Are Payments Made?

Empire Life makes LTD payments on a monthly basis. The payment schedule typically aligns with the approval of your claim. Once your claim is approved, you should expect to receive payments on a regular monthly cycle. The exact payment date may vary based on your policy, but you can confirm this through your Empire Life group benefits login or by contacting your Empire Life disability case manager.

Delayed or Missed Payments

There may be cases where your Empire Life LTD payment is delayed. Common reasons for payment delays include:

• Incomplete Documentation: If additional medical records or forms are required but not provided, this can cause delays.
• Policy Review: In some cases, Empire Life may conduct a policy review after a certain period (such as two years on LTD), which could temporarily halt payments until the review is complete.

If your payment is delayed or you miss a scheduled payment, it’s important to:

• Contact your Empire Life disability case manager to inquire about the status.
• Check the Empire Life group benefits portal for any updates or requests for additional information.

LTD Payment Schedule After Two Years

After receiving LTD benefits for two years, Empire Life reassesses your eligibility, as the criteria for continuing benefits change. The switch from “own occupation” to “any occupation” occurs at this point. This reassessment can affect whether you continue receiving payments, which will be covered in more detail in the section about the two-year mark for LTD.

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Checking Your Empire Life Disability Claim Status

Keeping track of your Empire Life long-term disability claim status is essential to ensure that there are no unnecessary delays or issues with your benefits. Whether you’re waiting for an initial decision or are monitoring your ongoing benefits, there are several ways to check the status of your claim.

Using the Empire Life Group Benefits Portal

The fastest and most convenient way to check your disability claim status is through the Empire Life Group Benefits portal. This secure online platform allows you to track the progress of your claim, view any correspondence from Empire Life, and ensure that your payment schedule remains consistent.

How to Access the Empire Life Portal:

1. Log into your account: Visit the Empire Life website and navigate to the Group Benefits login page. If you don’t have an account, you can easily register using your plan number and member ID, which should be provided by your employer or through your insurance documents.

2. Check claim updates: Once logged in, you can access the “Claims” section to view the status of your LTD application, including whether your claim is being processed, has been approved, or requires additional documentation.

3. Review correspondence: The portal also stores all communications related to your claim, including any requests for additional medical information or updates on the payment process.

Contacting Your Empire Life Disability Case Manager

If you prefer a more direct approach, or if you have specific questions about your claim, you can contact your Empire Life disability case manager. This person is responsible for overseeing your claim and can provide updates on its status.

How to Contact Your Case Manager:

1. Phone: You can reach your case manager by phone. Their contact information should be included in any mail or email communication you’ve received from Empire Life regarding your claim.

2. Email: We recommend you keep a record of your conversations with your insurer through email communication. Use the address provided by Empire Life to reach out to your case manager directly.

When contacting your case manager, be sure to have your claim number and plan details on hand for quicker service.

What to Do If You Can’t Access Your Claim Status

If you are unable to check your claim status through the Empire Life Group Benefits login, or if you are experiencing difficulties with your case manager, you can:

• Check your mail or email: Empire Life typically sends important updates about your claim by mail or email. Ensure that your contact information is up-to-date in their system.
• Contact Empire Life’s customer service team: You can reach out to Empire Life’s general customer service department for assistance with account access or claim status inquiries.

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What Happens After 2 Years of Empire Life LTD?

One of the most significant milestones in your Empire Life long-term disability claim is the two-year mark. At this point, the definition of disability changes, affecting your eligibility for continued benefits. This is often referred to as the “change of definition” and is a crucial factor in whether your payments continue or are terminated.

The Change from “Own Occupation” to “Any Occupation”

For the first two years of receiving Empire Life LTD benefits, the insurer evaluates your ability to perform your own occupation—the specific job or role you held when you became disabled. After two years, however, the definition changes to “any occupation” that you are reasonably suited for based on your education, training, or experience.

This change makes it more difficult to qualify for continued benefits because Empire Life will no longer assess your ability to perform only your original job but will look at whether you are capable of doing any job that matches your qualifications.

SEE MORE:
• Return to Work and Long-term Disability FAQ
• 5 common terms you must know before applying for LTD
• List of disability insurance companies in Canada

Empire Life’s Reassessment Process

As you approach the two-year mark, Empire Life will conduct a thorough reassessment to determine if you are still eligible for LTD benefits. This may involve:

• Medical Reassessments: Empire Life may request updated medical records from your doctor to evaluate whether your condition has improved or if you are still unable to perform any occupation.
• Vocational Rehabilitation Programs: Empire Life may suggest or require participation in a vocational rehabilitation program designed to help you return to the workforce. These programs assess whether you can be trained or retrained for a new job.
• Surveillance or Investigations: In some cases, Empire Life may conduct surveillance or other investigations to verify your condition and ensure you are unable to work.
• Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs): Empire Life may also require you to attend an IME to further assess your disability. Although these are presented as independent evaluations, they are often used by insurers to dispute or deny claims. If Empire Life has requested an IME, it’s crucial to get a free consultation with our team to understand your rights and the potential consequences. Learn more about IMEs and long-term disability.

What to Expect If Your Benefits Are Cut Off

Unfortunately, many legitimate claims are incorrectly denied or benefits cut off after the two-year mark due to the stricter “any occupation” standard. If Empire Life determines that you can perform any type of job, your LTD benefits may be terminated.

Common Reasons for Denial After Two Years:

• You no longer meet the “any occupation” definition of disability.
• Insufficient medical evidence to prove your inability to work in any capacity.
• Surveillance or vocational assessments that suggest you are capable of working.
• Failure to participate in rehabilitation programs if required.

What to Do If Empire Life Cuts Off Your Benefits

If your benefits are cut off after two years, it’s important not to accept the denial as the final decision. You have the right to challenge this through appeals or legal action. The appeal process will be discussed in detail in the next section, but key steps include:

• Gathering additional medical evidence to support your case.
• Seeking free legal advice from a disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your rights are protected.

If Empire Life is wrongfully denying your benefits, you may still qualify for financial support. It’s crucial to act quickly, as waiting too long could affect your ability to appeal or pursue effective legal action.

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Appealing an Empire Life Long-Term Disability Denial

If Empire Life denies your long-term disability claim or cuts off your benefits, it’s important to understand that you have the right to appeal their decision. The appeal process can be complex, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of securing the benefits you deserve.

Why Was Your LTD Claim Denied?

Before starting the appeal process, it’s crucial to understand why your claim was denied or cut off. Common reasons for denial include:

• Insufficient Medical Evidence: Empire Life may claim that your medical documentation does not clearly show that you are “totally disabled.” Here’s what to know about health reports and how they affect your LTD claim.
• Definition Change After Two Years: As discussed earlier, after two years, the definition of disability changes from your ability to perform your “own occupation” to “any occupation.” If Empire Life believes you can perform another job, they may stop your benefits.
• Surveillance or Investigations: If Empire Life conducts surveillance and believes you are capable of working, your benefits may be denied.
• Failure to Comply: In some cases, Empire Life may claim that you didn’t follow their guidelines for rehabilitation programs or medical treatments.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Your claim may be denied if Empire Life determines your disability is related to a pre-existing condition that wasn’t covered by your policy. Learn more about how pre-existing conditions impact LTD claims.
• Policy Age Limit: Most LTD policies have an age limit, often at 65, at which point benefits typically stop regardless of your situation.

The Internal Appeal Process

When Empire Life denies your LTD claim, the first step is to file an internal appeal. This involves requesting a review of your claim by the insurance company. While this may seem like a straightforward process, there are key points to keep in mind:

• Request a Copy of Your Claim File: You should ask for a complete copy of your claim file from Empire Life. This file contains the evidence they used to deny your claim, including medical reports and any other relevant documentation.
• Submit Additional Medical Evidence: If your claim was denied due to insufficient medical evidence, ask your doctor to provide more detailed information. Ensure all documentation clearly explains your condition and its impact on your ability to work.
• Clarify Misunderstandings: In some cases, Empire Life’s internal review may have missed important details or misinterpreted information. You can use your appeal to clarify these misunderstandings.

While internal appeals can be successful in some cases, they are often not the best long-term solution. Since you’re asking the same company that denied your claim to change its decision, many claimants find that their appeal is denied again.

Should You Appeal or File a Legal Claim?

Although Empire Life offers an internal appeal process, it’s important to consider whether this is the best path forward. Internal appeals are often a drawn-out process with limited success. Instead, you may have better results by filing a legal claim against Empire Life.

Filing a Legal Appeal

If your internal appeal fails, or if you choose to bypass it, the next step is to file a claim. This challenges Empire Life’s denial of your benefits. Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Hire a Disability Lawyer

Working with a lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP who specializes in long-term disability claims is critical to your success. We will handle communication with Empire Life and build a strong case based on medical evidence, legal precedents, and your individual circumstances.

2. Empire Life‘s Response

Once we file a claim, Empire Life must respond and may introduce a new claim manager to review your case. In some situations, they may reverse their decision (as in the case of our client, Sandra Bullock) and provide compensation.

3. Negotiations and Resolution

In nearly all cases, these matters are settled before they ever go near a courtroom. This means you may receive your benefits without a lengthy trial. However, in the rare event the case does go to court, a judge will review all the evidence and make a final decision.

How to Strengthen Your Appeal or Lawsuit

• Comprehensive Medical Evidence: Detailed and updated reports from your healthcare provider are crucial to proving your disability. Be sure your doctors provide thorough documentation of your condition and explain why you are unable to perform any occupation.
• Vocational Assessments: If your claim was denied due to the “any occupation” clause, obtaining a vocational assessment that shows why you cannot work in any capacity can be valuable.
• Legal Expertise: Disability claims can be legally complex, especially when dealing with large insurance companies like Empire Life. An experienced disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can handle the complexities and advocate for your rights.

What Not to Do During the Appeal Process

• Do Not Delay: The longer you wait to file an appeal or legal claim, the more difficult it may become to win your case. Be aware of deadlines and start the process as soon as possible. You have two years from the time your claim is denied or cut off to file a claim against the insurance company.
• Do Not Rely Solely on Internal Appeals: While it’s tempting to hope that an internal appeal will resolve the issue, insurers often stand by their initial decision. Get a free consultation with our team before relying entirely on this process.

If your Empire Life long-term disability claim has been denied or cut off, it’s critical to take action quickly. Whether through an internal appeal or by filing a legal claim, we can help you obtain the benefits you are rightfully owed during this difficult time.

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Empire Life LTD Denial: Legal Alternatives

If your Empire Life long-term disability claim has been denied or your benefits have been cut off, you are not out of options. In fact, legal action is often the most effective way to secure compensation you’re entitled to when dealing with a large insurance company like Empire Life. While an internal appeal may seem like the easiest route, a legal claim can provide you with stronger leverage and a more impartial review of your case.

Why Consider Legal Action?

Many people find that their internal appeals with Empire Life are repeatedly denied, even when they submit additional medical documentation. Since Empire Life is reviewing its own decision, it’s in their financial interest to maintain the denial. However, by filing a legal claim, you bring your case before an impartial decision-maker who is not influenced by Empire Life’s internal policies.

Key Reasons to Pursue Legal Action:

• Impartial Judgment: A legal claim means your case is reviewed by an outside party, ensuring fairness and objectivity.
• Stronger Leverage: Insurance companies like Empire Life are more willing to settle or approve your benefits once they realize Samfiru Tumarkin LLP is on your side.
• Potential for a Larger Settlement: In some cases, a legal claim can lead to compensation that goes beyond LTD benefits, especially if the denial was wrongful or in bad faith.

Steps to Filing a Legal Claim

Filing a legal claim against Empire Life can seem daunting, but with legal representation from Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, the process becomes much more manageable. Here’s what to expect:

1. Consult a Disability Lawyer

The first step in pursuing legal action is to speak with a disability lawyer who has experience dealing with Empire Life LTD claims. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our team has successfully handled numerous cases involving Empire Life and other major insurance providers. A lawyer will assess your situation for free and determine if you have a strong case. They will also work with you to try and resolve the matter with Empire Life before taking legal action.

2. File a Statement of Claim

Your lawyer will draft and file a Statement of Claim, which outlines the details of your case and why you are entitled to LTD benefits. This document is served to Empire Life, officially notifying them that you are pursuing legal action.

3. Empire Life’s Response

Once the Statement of Claim is filed, Empire Life will assign their own legal team to review your case. Often, this leads to a reassessment of your claim. In some cases, Empire Life may offer a settlement or approve your benefits to avoid the costs associated with a trial.

4. Discovery Process

If the case proceeds, both parties will engage in discovery, where they exchange evidence and information. During this phase, you will have the opportunity to provide further documentation supporting your disability, and Empire Life will share the reasons for their denial.

5. Negotiation or Settlement

Nearly all LTD legal claims are resolved through negotiation or settlement before they go to trial. Your lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP will negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome. If a settlement is reached, you will typically receive your benefits or a lump-sum payment to resolve the dispute.

6. Trial

In extremely rare cases where a settlement can’t be reached, the claim may go to court. During the trial, a judge will review the evidence from both sides and make a final decision.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

While the legal process can take time, it’s important to remain patient and trust in the strategy laid out by your legal team. Here’s what to expect:

• Ongoing Communication: Your lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP will handle all communication with Empire Life, taking the stress off you so you can focus on your health.
• Medical Documentation: Provide updated medical records throughout the process. The more comprehensive your evidence, the stronger your case will be.
• Potential Delays: Legal claims can take a few months to resolve. However, a successful legal claim often results in much better compensation than an internal appeal.

Common Outcomes of Legal Claims

• Settlement: In most cases, Empire Life will offer a settlement during the negotiation phase. This could involve a reinstatement of your LTD benefits or a lump-sum payment.
• Benefit Approval: Sometimes, Empire Life may approve your benefits after a legal claim is started, especially if they recognize the strength of your case that Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has presented.

Should You File a Legal Claim?

Yes. If your LTD benefits have been denied or cut off, filing a legal claim is often your best option. Empire Life has a track record of denying claims that are later resolved through legal channels. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we have helped thousands of clients recover their LTD benefits and secure settlements from major insurers like Empire Life.

Insurance companies like Empire Life know our track record. They will likely choose to pay you what you are owed instead of getting into a legal dispute, which costs them more money in the long run.

No Win, No Fee

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we work on a contingency fee basis for LTD cases. This means you don’t pay unless we win. Our goal is to make sure that pursuing legal action is accessible, with no upfront costs, allowing you to focus on your health while we focus on winning your case.

Negotiation or Settlement

Most LTD legal claims are resolved through negotiation or settlement before they go to trial. Your lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome. If a settlement is reached, you will typically receive your benefits or a lump-sum payment to resolve the dispute.

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FAQs About Empire Life Long-term Disability Claims

When dealing with Empire Life long-term disability claims, there are often a lot of questions regarding the process, eligibility, and what to do if your claim is denied. Below are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through your claim journey. Find more answers in our full LTD FAQ section.

1. Who qualifies for Empire Life LTD benefits?

To qualify for Empire Life long-term disability benefits, you must:

• Be covered under a group benefits plan provided by your employer or have an individual LTD insurance policy with Empire Life.
• Have a medical condition that prevents you from performing your own occupation for the first two years of your claim. Learn more about common medical conditions that qualify for LTD benefits.
• After two years, the eligibility changes, and you must be unable to perform any occupation for which you are reasonably suited by education, training, or experience.
• You must also meet any other requirements laid out in your specific policy, such as continuous disability for 90-180 days and proper medical documentation.

2. When should you apply for LTD benefits with Empire Life?

You should apply for LTD benefits as soon as it becomes clear that you will not be able to return to work due to illness or injury. Typically, LTD benefits begin after the short-term disability (STD) or any other income support has been exhausted, which is usually around 17 weeks. Make sure to gather all necessary documents, including the Employer Statement, Employee Statement, and Initial Attending Physician’s Statement.

You must wait for a particular period of time before you can switch to LTD. This is called the “elimination period.” If you are still disabled and unable to work after the elimination period, Empire Life should approve you for LTD benefits.

3. How do I submit an Empire Life LTD claim?

To submit an LTD claim, follow these steps:

• Log into the Empire Life Group Benefits portal or submit paper forms via mail.
• Complete the required documents: Employer Statement, Employee Statement, and Initial Attending Physician’s Statement.
• Ensure all medical evidence is complete and accurate.
• Submit the forms online or mail them directly to Empire Life.

4. How long does it take for an Empire Life LTD claim to be approved?

Empire Life typically processes LTD claims within 5 to 20 business days. However, it could take longer if additional medical documentation is required or if the claim is particularly complex. You can check the status of your claim through the Empire Life Group Benefits login or by contacting your Empire Life disability case manager.

5. What Happens if Empire Life Doesn’t Respond to New Medical Documentation?

After submitting additional medical documentation, it’s critical that Empire Life reviews your claim promptly. However, if they fail to respond within a reasonable time frame, this may be treated as an effective denial of your claim. In such cases, you have the right to challenge their inaction and pursue your benefits. Don’t wait too long—if you’re not hearing back, get a free consultation with Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your claim is properly handled.

6. What happens after 2 years on Empire Life LTD?

After two years, Empire Life will reassess your eligibility for benefits. The definition of disability changes from being unable to perform your own occupation to being unable to perform any occupation that you are reasonably suited for by education, training, or experience. This stricter standard often results in benefits being denied or cut off, but you have the right to appeal if your claim is denied at this stage.

7. Can I appeal an Empire Life LTD denial?

Yes, if your Empire Life LTD claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. The internal appeal process involves providing additional medical evidence or addressing the reasons for denial. However, it’s often more effective to work with a disability lawyer to file a legal claim against Empire Life, as internal appeals can be denied repeatedly.

8. How do I check the status of my Empire Life LTD claim?

You can check the status of your claim by logging into the Empire Life Group Benefits portal. If you prefer direct communication, you can also contact your Empire Life disability case manager by phone or email. They can provide updates and let you know if any additional documents are required.

9. What should I do if my LTD benefits are cut off?

If your LTD benefits are cut off, especially after the two-year mark, you should act quickly. Start by getting a free consultation with a disability lawyer. Gather updated medical evidence that supports your inability to work in any occupation. You can file an internal appeal, but working with a disability lawyer is often the best course of action to challenge Empire Life’s decision and secure your benefits.

10. Can Empire Life monitor or investigate my disability claim?

Yes, insurance companies, including Empire Life, may conduct surveillance or investigate your claim to verify your disability. This could involve monitoring your activities or reviewing your social media presence. If Empire Life believes you are capable of working based on this evidence, they may deny your claim or cut off your benefits. It’s important to be honest and consistent in your claim.

For more detailed information on how surveillance works in long-term disability cases, you can explore our guide on LTD surveillance.

Surveillance doesn’t always lead to a denied claim, however. In a notable case, Julie Austin, a teacher whose claim was initially denied, successfully won her LTD benefits after our team demonstrated that the insurer’s surveillance photos didn’t disprove her disability but, in fact, reinforced it. You can read more about Austin’s legal victory here.

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Get Expert Help with Your Empire Life Long-Term Disability Claim

If your Empire Life long-term disability claim has been denied or your benefits have been cut off, don’t face the challenge alone. Our experienced disability lawyers at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP have successfully represented thousands of Canadians, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve when dealing with insurance companies like Empire Life.

We also assist clients with related claims, including life insurance, critical illness and mortgage insurance, providing comprehensive support for various types of insurance coverage disputes.

Whether you’re struggling to get approved for benefits, appealing a denial, or dealing with a claim cut-off after two years, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how we can support you through the process and protect your rights. Our services extend across all Canadian provinces, excluding Quebec.

Don’t wait – Explore how our experts can help secure your disability claim today.