Manulife Long-Term Disability: What Happens After 2 Years?

Manulife long-term disability (LTD) benefits don’t automatically end after two years. Many policies change the rules at the 24-month mark, but you can continue receiving payments if you still qualify.

If Manulife has told you that your benefits are ending, or you’re approaching your two-year review, it’s important to understand your rights before accepting the insurance company’s decision.

Manulife Cutting Off Your Disability Benefits?

You’re still dealing with your medical condition, but Manulife says your payments are ending. You don’t have to face the insurance company alone.

The disability lawyers at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP help people across Canada challenge denied and terminated Manulife LTD claims.

Get a free consultation to find out where you stand.

What Happens to Manulife Long-Term Disability After Two Years?

After two years, many Manulife LTD policies change how they define disability. This is known as the change of definition.

There are generally two stages:

• First two years – Own occupation: Manulife looks at whether your medical condition prevents you from performing the duties of your regular occupation.
• After two years – Any occupation: Manulife considers whether you can work in another occupation suited to your education, training and experience, subject to the wording of your policy.

For example, you may be unable to return to a physically demanding job, but Manulife might decide you can perform office work instead.

That doesn’t automatically mean Manulife is right. Your medical restrictions, ability to work consistently and the terms of your policy all matter.

Can Manulife Stop My Benefits Even If I’m Still Disabled?

Yes. Manulife may decide you no longer qualify under the new disability definition, even if your medical condition hasn’t improved.

The insurer may believe you can perform another type of work. But being able to do a few tasks isn’t the same as being able to hold down a job.

For example, someone with chronic pain may be able to sit at a desk for short periods but struggle to work full days. Someone with depression or anxiety may have difficulty concentrating, meeting deadlines or maintaining a regular schedule.

Manulife must assess your claim against the actual requirements of your policy. If its decision overlooks your limitations, you may have grounds to challenge it.

How Does Manulife Review LTD Benefits at the Two-Year Mark?

As you approach the change of definition, Manulife may review your medical condition and ability to work.

The insurer may:

• Request updated medical reports from your doctor or specialists.
• Ask about your education, work experience and previous job duties.
• Arrange medical or functional assessments.
• Review whether you could perform another type of occupation.

A review doesn’t necessarily mean your benefits will stop. However, it’s important that your medical evidence explains how your condition affects your ability to work, not just your diagnosis.

If your doctor has been asked to complete additional paperwork, learn more about the Manulife Attending Physician Statement.

What Should I Do If Manulife Cuts Off My LTD Benefits After Two Years?

Don’t assume Manulife’s decision is final. A benefit cutoff can be challenged, and you may be entitled to payments that the insurer has refused to provide.

If you’ve received a termination letter:

• Keep the letter. It should explain why Manulife believes you no longer qualify.
• Speak with your doctor. Make sure your medical records accurately describe your ongoing restrictions.
• Don’t rush into an appeal. An internal appeal isn’t always the best way to challenge a denial.
• Get legal advice promptly. There are deadlines for pursuing a legal claim.

Learn more about challenging a Manulife disability denial.

How Long Can Manulife LTD Benefits Continue?

Manulife LTD benefits can continue beyond two years if you meet your policy’s disability definition and other requirements.

Some policies provide benefits until age 65, while others have different maximum periods. Your coverage depends on your particular plan.

Even after passing the two-year review, Manulife may continue asking for medical updates to confirm that you remain eligible.

Manulife LTD After Two Years: Frequently Asked Questions

Does Manulife automatically stop paying LTD after 24 months?

No. Many policies change their disability definition after 24 months, but benefits can continue if you meet the new requirements.

Can Manulife cut me off if my doctor says I can’t work?

Yes. Manulife may disagree with your doctor’s assessment. However, a doctor’s opinion and the supporting medical evidence are important when challenging a cutoff.

Do I have to appeal Manulife’s decision before contacting a lawyer?

No. You can speak with a disability lawyer as soon as you receive a termination notice. An internal appeal isn’t always necessary or the best approach.

Can I get a settlement if Manulife terminates my LTD?

Yes. Depending on your claim, a dispute may be resolved through payment of overdue benefits, reinstatement of payments or a lump-sum settlement.

Manulife Stopped Your LTD Benefits? Get What You’re Owed.

If Manulife has cut off your long-term disability benefits after two years, you don’t have to accept its decision without a review.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our disability lawyers review your policy, medical evidence and the reasons Manulife gave for ending your payments. We deal with the insurance company while you focus on your health.

We help people across Canada, except Quebec. Many disability disputes are resolved without going to trial.

Your benefits stopped. Your rights didn’t.

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 Manulife or any other insurance provider.