If you’re unable to work due to illness or injury, you may qualify for long term disability (LTD) benefits in British Columbia. These payments can replace a portion of your income when your condition prevents you from doing your job for an extended period of time.

In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn:

  • What LTD insurance is and how it works in BC
  • Who qualifies for benefits and how much you can receive
  • What happens after two years on LTD
  • What to do if your claim is denied
  • Whether you can be fired while on LTD or still get a severance package

Our team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, Canada’s most positively reviewed disability law firm, has helped thousands of people across BC challenge denied claims and protect their income.

What’s In This Guide

What is Long-Term Disability in BC?

Long-term disability (LTD) insurance in British Columbia provides monthly income replacement when a medical condition prevents you from working. If your condition meets the policy’s definition of disability, you may receive payments while you recover — or until retirement age.

Most people access LTD through:

  • A group insurance plan from their employer, union, or association
  • A private disability insurance policy they’ve purchased themselves

These benefits typically begin after a waiting period (called the elimination period) and may last for two years or more, depending on your condition and coverage.

Key Facts About LTD Insurance in BC

  • You must be unable to work in your current job (not permanently disabled)
  • LTD policies vary, but typically cover 60% to 70% of your income
  • Benefits can last until age 65 if your condition continues
  • LTD is different from short-term disability (STD) and government programs like Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Assistance or CPP Disability
  • You must have active coverage when your condition begins

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What Qualifies for Long-Term Disability in BC?

You qualify for long-term disability (LTD) in BC if you have a medical condition that prevents you from working for an extended period of time — and you meet the terms of your LTD insurance policy.

To Qualify, You Must:

  • Have LTD coverage through a group or private insurance plan
  • Be medically unable to perform your job due to illness or injury
  • Have a condition that is expected to last months or longer
  • Provide medical evidence from your doctor
  • Have passed the elimination period (usually 90 to 120 days off work)

Conditions that Often Qualify for LTD

Many different illnesses and injuries can lead to LTD claims, including:

It’s not about the diagnosis — it’s about how your condition prevents you from working.

📋 Not sure if your condition qualifies? Explore our guide on What Medical Conditions Qualify for Disability in Canada.

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What Does “Totally Disabled” Mean for LTD in BC?

In BC, being “totally disabled” under a long-term disability (LTD) policy doesn’t mean you’re permanently incapacitated. It means your medical condition stops you from performing the essential duties of your job — or, later on, any job that fits your background.

Two Definitions of “Total Disability”

1. Own Occupation

For the first two years on LTD, most policies define “total disability” as the inability to do your own occupation — the specific job you had before you became disabled.

2. Any Occupation

After two years, the test becomes stricter. You must be unable to work in any occupation for which you are reasonably suited based on:

  • Your education
  • Your training
  • Your past work experience

This is the point where many LTD claims are cut off.

⚠️ Important: “Any occupation” does not mean any job. In BC, you may still be considered totally disabled if you can’t work in a role that pays at least 60% of your pre-disability income.

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How Much Does Long-Term Disability Pay in BC?

Most long-term disability plans in BC pay between 60% and 70% of your regular income, according to the Canadian government. The exact amount depends on the terms of your policy, your salary before the disability, and whether there’s a cap on benefits.

Key Facts About LTD Payments

  • Income replacement: Usually 60–70% of your gross earnings
  • Payment frequency: Paid monthly, often on the same day each month
  • Maximum benefit: Many policies have a cap (e.g., $3,500/month), regardless of income
  • Tax status:
    • If your employer pays the premiums → benefits are taxable
    • If you pay the premiums → benefits are tax-free

🔎 Example: If you earned $70,000/year and your LTD policy pays 66.7% you would receive about $3,889/month before taxes — assuming no cap or deductions apply.

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What Is an LTD Deduction?

An LTD deduction is a portion of your paycheck used to pay for long-term disability insurance. It appears on your pay stub if you contribute to the cost of your coverage.

  • If you pay the premiums, LTD payments are not taxed
  • If your employer pays, your benefits are taxable
  • Most LTD deductions are taken on a pre-tax basis, but policies vary

🧾 Tip: Review your pay stub and insurance documents to understand who is paying for your LTD coverage — it directly affects whether your benefits will be taxed later.

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How Long Does Long-Term Disability Last in BC?

Long-term disability (LTD) benefits in BC can last for several years, often until age 65, depending on your insurance policy and whether you continue to meet the definition of “totally disabled.” Some policies have a shorter fixed duration (e.g., 5 or 10 years), while others last until retirement.

LTD Coverage Usually Ends When:

  • You are no longer considered “totally disabled”
  • You return to work
  • You reach the policy’s time limit (often age 65)
  • You pass away

For most group policies in BC, LTD ends at age 65, aligning with the Canada Pension Plan retirement age. However, individual or private plans may differ, so it’s crucial to review your policy for:

  • The maximum benefit period
  • Whether you’re covered under an own occupation or any occupation test
  • Ongoing medical documentation requirements

⚠️ If your benefits are cut off early — even before the end of your coverage period — you may have a legal claim. Contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP for a FREE consultation to review your options.

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What is the Elimination Period for LTD in BC?

The elimination period is the waiting period between the date you stop working and the date your long-term disability payments begin. Most LTD policies in BC have an elimination period of 90 to 120 days, but some can be shorter or longer.

You must remain continuously disabled during this time to qualify for benefits.

Key Facts About the Elimination Period

Example: If your LTD policy has a 90-day elimination period and your disability began on January 1, your first LTD payment would likely arrive in early May — after the period ends and claim processing is complete.

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How to Apply for Long-Term Disability Benefits in BC

Applying for long-term disability (LTD) benefits in BC involves submitting detailed medical and personal information to your insurance provider. Most claims require forms from you, your doctor, and sometimes your employer.

Steps to Apply for LTD Benefits

1. Confirm Your Coverage

Make sure you have long-term disability insurance through a workplace group plan or private policy.

2. Speak With Your Doctor

Your physician must support your claim. Don’t stop working without first getting their medical opinion and documentation.

3. Get the Applicant Forms

Most insurers will provide:

  • A notice of claim form (completed by you)
  • An attending physician’s statement (completed by your doctor)
  • An employer’s report (if part of a group plan)

4. Submit All Required Documents

Include:

  • Your completed forms
  • Medical records
  • Any test results or treatment plans
  • A short cover letter listing the enclosed items

5. Prepare for a Call or Interview

Some insurers may contact you directly to discuss your claim. Be honest, concise, and clear — and avoid speculation about your condition.

6. Wait for a Decision

Once submitted, it may take several weeks for the insurance company to assess your application and notify you of approval or denial.

⚠️ Many LTD claims are denied due to incomplete forms or missing medical evidence. Contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP if you’re unsure about your application or face delays from your insurer.

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Why Are Long-Term Disability Claims Denied in BC?

Even if your condition is serious and your doctor supports your claim, insurance companies often deny LTD benefits in BC. Denials are usually based on technicalities, vague definitions, or claims that your evidence doesn’t meet the policy’s standard.

Common Reasons for LTD Claim Denial

🟢 Real Results: Surveillance doesn’t always mean your claim is doomed. When an insurer used photos to deny teacher Julie Austin’s LTD claim, our legal team proved the footage actually supported her disability. Read about her legal victory.

For a more thorough understanding of these reasons, see our FAQ on Common Reasons for Denial in LTD Claims.

⚠️ Even strong claims are denied without warning. If your LTD application is rejected, don’t give up — contact us immediately for a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.

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What Happens After 2 Years on LTD in BC?

At the two-year mark, most long-term disability (LTD) policies in BC shift the definition of “totally disabled.” This is a common point where insurance companies reassess — and often cut off benefits.

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

First 2 Years (Own Occupation Test)

You qualify for LTD if your condition prevents you from performing the essential duties of your own job.

After 2 Years (Any Occupation Test)

You must now prove you’re unable to work in any occupation that you are reasonably suited for, based on:

  • Education
  • Training
  • Experience

This change makes it harder to stay on LTD — especially if your insurer argues that you can return to work in a lower-paying or sedentary role. At this stage, insurers often conduct detailed reassessments, including medical and vocational evaluations. Strong medical documentation and expert reports are crucial to proving that you still meet the definition of total disability.

⚠️ You may still qualify if: You can’t work in a role that pays at least 60% of your pre-disability income or perform substantial duties in a comparable job.

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What to Do If Your Long-Term Disability is Denied or Cut Off in BC

If your long-term disability (LTD) claim is denied in BC or your benefits are suddenly cut off — even after months or years of approval — you’re not alone. Many legitimate claims are rejected, often without clear justification, leaving people confused and overwhelmed.

Insurance companies may argue that you’re no longer “totally disabled,” that your doctor hasn’t provided enough proof, or that you’re fit to return to any occupation. But in many cases, these decisions are flawed, unfair — and legally challengeable.

Steps After a Denial

1. Review the Denial Letter

Your insurance company must explain why they denied your claim. Look for references to:

  • Medical evidence they say is missing or insufficient
  • Surveillance, assessments, or internal definitions
  • The policy’s “total disability” test

2. Be Wary of the Appeal Process

Insurers often offer an internal appeal — but it’s rarely effective. You’re asking the same company to reverse their own decision, with no independent oversight.

🛑 You only have a limited time to act. In BC, you typically have 2 years from the date of denial to start a legal claim. Don’t wait — speak to us now to protect your rights.

3. Contact a Disability Lawyer Right Away

The better path is to start a legal claim, not an appeal. At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our lawyers know how to hold insurers accountable and recover the benefits our clients are rightfully owed.

✋ Why Legal Action Is Better Than Appealing

If your LTD claim was denied or terminated, you have two options:

  • File an internal appeal with the insurance company
  • Start a legal claim for wrongful denial of benefits

⚠️ We strongly recommend legal action. In our decades of experience, insurers rarely reverse their decisions unless you present substantial new medical evidence — and most appeals are denied. A legal claim is often the only way to apply real pressure.

🟢 Real Results: When Sandra Bullock’s long-term disability benefits were wrongly cut off, our team took legal action — and won. The insurance company reinstated her benefits after we challenged their denial and brought national media attention to her case.

If your long-term disability in BC is cut off or denied, don’t give up. Contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP for a FREE consultation — we’ll review your claim and help you get the compensation you deserve.

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Which Insurance Companies Deny LTD in BC?

Every major insurance company in BC denies long-term disability (LTD) claims — even when doctors support the claim and the individual clearly can’t work. These denials are often based on vague policy language, unfair interpretations, or incomplete medical assessments.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we regularly take legal action against Canada’s largest disability insurers, and we know exactly how each one handles LTD claims — Contact us today to find out how we can help.

We help clients challenge LTD denials from:

Denied by a Different Insurance Company!

Even if your insurer isn’t listed here, our disability lawyers may still be able to help. We’ve handled thousands of claims involving group and private LTD policies across BC. [See our full list]

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Can You Be Fired While on Long-Term Disability in BC?

No — your employer can’t fire you just because you’re on long-term disability. That would be illegal, and considered disability discrimination under the BC Human Rights Code, which protects employees who are ill, injured, or unable to work due to a medical condition

What About “Undue Hardship”?

BC law requires employers to accommodate an employee’s disability to the point of undue hardship — but this is a very high standard.

Just because an accommodation is inconvenient or costs money doesn’t mean your employer can legally refuse it or terminate your employment.

In fact, it is extremely difficult for an employer to prove undue hardship. Most companies are expected to make reasonable efforts — such as modifying job duties, approving medical leaves, or waiting for a return-to-work timeline — before even considering termination.

The Only Narrow Exception: Frustration of Contract

In rare cases, if your medical condition makes a return to work nearly impossible in the foreseeable future, your employer may argue that the employment contract has been frustrated.

🔗 For more on this topic, read our Employment Issues and Long-Term Disability FAQ.

⚠️ Don’t assume your termination was legal. If you were fired while on LTD — even if your employer cited frustration of contract — speak with our lawyers for a FREE consultation. You are likely owed significant compensation.

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Do You Get Severance While on LTD in BC?

Yes — in many cases, employees on long-term disability (LTD) are still entitled to severance pay in BC if their employment is terminated. Your employer can’t use your medical leave or disability status as an excuse to avoid paying what you’re legally owed.

Your severance package could be up to 24 months’ pay, and you may also continue to receive LTD benefits from your insurer.

Severance vs. LTD: How They Interact

Receiving LTD benefits does not cancel out your right to severance — but it can affect how the payments are handled. For example:

  • If you receive a severance package, your LTD insurer may try to deduct it from your benefits
  • The structure of the severance agreement matters — it impacts taxability and offsets
  • A Samfiru Tumarkin LLP lawyer can help you maximize both — LTD and severance

🔎 Want the full breakdown? Read our guide on Severance and Long-Term Disability in BC.

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Other Disability Benefits in BC

If you’re unable to work due to a medical condition, long-term disability (LTD) isn’t your only possible source of financial support. Depending on your situation, you may also qualify for one or more of the following programs:

Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP Disability)

A federal disability benefit available to Canadians who have made recent CPP contributions and are considered “severely and prolonged” disabled. Many LTD insurers require you to apply for CPP Disability, and may deduct payments from your monthly LTD benefits.

➡️ Learn more: CPP Disability Benefits in Canada

Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Assistance

Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Assistance is a long-term disability support program in British Columbia, managed by the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. This program helps residents with persistent physical or mental disabilities access essential resources and support..

⛔ PWD or WorkSafeBC Denial? Unfortunately, Samfiru Tumarkin LLP does not assist with PWD or WorkSafeBC claim denials.

Disability Tax Credit (DTC)

The DTC is a non-refundable tax credit that reduces the amount of income tax you may owe. If approved, you can claim it retroactively for up to 10 years — and it can also support eligibility for other programs like the RDSP.

➡️ Learn more: Disability Tax Credit Guide

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Speak to a BC Disability Lawyer Today

If your long-term disability claim in British Columbia has been denied, delayed, or cut off, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face your insurance company on your own.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we are Canada’s leading disability law firm, with a strong track record representing individuals across the province. Our experienced disability lawyers in BC understand how insurers operate — and how to push back when they act unfairly.

Whether you’re applying for benefits, appealing a denial, or dealing with a cut-off after two years, we can help you every step of the way.

✅ Insider Advantage: Sivan Tumarkin, co-founding partner of Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, previously worked for insurance companies. Today, he uses that knowledge to advocate for disabled individuals across BC. He knows insurers’ strategies, and how to level the playing field in your favour.

We also help with related insurance claims:

💲 No Win, No Fee: Our disability lawyers work on a contingency basis — you don’t pay unless we recover compensation.

Free Consultation – Speak With Us Today

Book your FREE consultation with a disability lawyer in Vancouver. We’ll deal with the insurance company so you can focus on your health — not the stress of a denied claim. Don’t give up your rights. That’s exactly what the insurance company is hoping for.

Connect with Canada’s top disability law firm today. Call us at 1-855-821-5900 or email help@disabilityrights.ca to get started. You can also watch our popular Disability Law Show, explore our Free LTD FAQs, or join a Livestream Q&A for real-time answers from the Samfiru Tumarkin LLP team.

Why Canadians Trust Samfiru Tumarkin LLP

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