If your short-term disability (STD) claim has been denied, delayed, or cut off, you may still be entitled to benefits. Many people in Hamilton run into problems with their insurance company even when they have strong medical support.
A short-term disability lawyer in Hamilton can review your denial, explain your rights, and help you secure the payments you’re owed.
Why STD Claims Are Often Denied or Cut Off
Insurance companies frequently deny or stop STD benefits for reasons such as:
- Limited or incomplete medical documentation
- Your doctor’s notes “don’t support” time off
- Insurer says you can return to work
- Internal policy disagreements
- Surveillance or misinterpreted social media posts
- Administrative or paperwork errors
Most of these decisions are not final — and many Hamilton employees successfully challenge them with legal help.
ℹ️ Learn more about Short Term Disability Ontario and Long Term Disability Ontario benefits and claims.
How a Short-Term Disability Lawyer Helps Hamilton Employees
A lawyer can:
- Review your denial letter and identify the insurer’s errors
- Work with your doctor to strengthen medical support
- Communicate with the insurance company on your behalf
- Pursue a legal claim if the insurer refuses to reverse its decision
- Ensure you aren’t pressured to return to work before you’re medically ready
Most people don’t realize that you don’t need to go through internal appeals. Those processes often delay your claim without improving your chances.
Common Conditions That Affect Hamilton Workers
You qualify for STD benefits if your condition prevents you from performing your essential job duties, including:
- Anxiety, depression, workplace burnout
- Post-concussion syndrome
- Recovery from surgery or major injury
- Back injuries, nerve pain, or chronic pain
- Long COVID or respiratory issues
Even if your symptoms are invisible or fluctuate, you may still be eligible.
Your Rights While on Short-Term Disability in Ontario
While receiving STD benefits, Hamilton employees are protected under Ontario law:
- Your employer can’t penalize you for being off work
- You don’t have to return before your doctor approves it
- You may have access to job-protected medical leave
- Your employer must accommodate medical restrictions
- Pressure to resign or return early can trigger constructive dismissal issues
If your employer is making things difficult, speak to a disability lawyer immediately.
What Happens When STD Ends? (17–week mark)
Many Hamilton employees transition from STD to LTD when their recovery takes longer than expected.
A lawyer can help you:
- Understand what the insurer needs for LTD
- Prepare medical evidence
- Avoid gaps in your benefits
- Respond to early cutoffs or “any occupation” issues
Why People in Hamilton Choose Samfiru Tumarkin LLP
Our Hamilton short-term disability lawyers:
- Have helped over 50,000 Canadians secure disability benefits
- Understand how Ontario insurers assess STD claims
- Charge no upfront fees — you only pay if we succeed
- Handle all communication with the insurer so you can focus on your health
We’re also Canada’s most-reviewed disability law firm, with thousands of positive reviews.
When You Should Contact a Short-Term Disability Lawyer
Speak to an STD lawyer if:
- Your STD claim was denied or terminated
- You’re being pushed to return to work
- Your insurer is ignoring your doctor
- Your benefits are about to shift to LTD
- You want someone to manage the insurance process for you
You don’t need to wait for multiple denials. Early advice can make a major difference.
FAQs About Short-Term Disability in Hamilton
Can I be fired while on short-term disability?
You can’t be fired because you’re on disability leave. If that happens, you may also be owed severance pay in Ontario.
Do I need a doctor’s note?
Yes, you need a doctor’s note. Your doctor’s opinion is the key factor insurers must consider.
Should I appeal or contact a lawyer?
A legal claim is usually more effective than internal appeals. We’ll explain your best route.
Will this affect my employment?
No — you have the right to take medical leave.
Speak to a Short-Term Disability Lawyer in Hamilton Today
If your STD benefits have been denied or cut off, don’t take on the insurance company alone.
✅ At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our team will explain your rights, deal with the insurer, and get the compensation you are legally owed.
📞 Call 1-855-821-5900 or book your free consultation today.