How Long Does Short-Term Disability Last in Canada?

Short-term disability (STD) benefits provide temporary income support when you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. One of the most common questions Canadians ask is:

How long does short-term disability last?

The answer depends on your employer’s insurance plan, but most short-term disability benefits in Canada last for a limited and clearly defined period.

Typical Length of Short-Term Disability in Canada

In most cases, short-term disability benefits last between:

• 15 weeks
• 26 weeks

Some plans may be shorter or longer, but STD benefits are always temporary.

The exact duration depends on:

• the insurance policy
• your employer’s benefits plan
• how your disability is defined under the policy

What Determines How Long STD Benefits Last?

Several factors affect the length of short-term disability benefits, including:

1. Your Employer’s Insurance Policy

STD is not required by law. If your employer offers it, the policy sets the maximum benefit period.

2. Medical Evidence

Benefits continue only while medical evidence supports that you’re unable to work.

3. Policy Definitions

Some policies require that you be unable to perform your own job, while others focus more broadly on work capacity.

Can Short-Term Disability End Early?

Yes.

STD benefits can end before the maximum period if the insurer decides you no longer meet the definition of disability.

This may happen if:

• the insurer claims you’re able to return to work
• medical evidence is considered insufficient
• surveillance or file reviews are relied on

Early cut-offs are common and are often treated much like denials.

What Happens When Short-Term Disability Runs Out?

When STD reaches its maximum duration, benefits typically end — even if you’re still unable to work.

At that point, you may need to:

• apply for long-term disability (LTD)
• apply for EI sickness benefits
• challenge an insurer’s decision if benefits were cut off early

Do You Have to Return to Work When STD Ends?

No.

An insurer ending STD benefits does not mean:

• your doctor has cleared you to work, or
• you must return to your job immediately.

Medical fitness to work is determined by your healthcare provider, not the insurer.

Does STD Duration Vary by Province?

Short-term disability benefits are usually provided through employer insurance plans, not provincial governments. However, employment standards and job-protected leave rules vary by province.

Key Takeaway

Most short-term disability benefits in Canada last 15 to 26 weeks, depending on your employer’s insurance plan.

Benefits may end earlier if the insurer decides you no longer qualify — and reaching the maximum duration doesn’t mean you must return to work if you’re still medically unable.

Understanding how long STD lasts — and what happens next — can help you plan and avoid income gaps.