If you can’t work because of an illness or injury, you may qualify for long term disability (LTD) benefits in Ontario. LTD insurance provides monthly income replacement — typically 60-70% of your salary — while you’re unable to work.

In Ontario, LTD benefits may come from:

  • workplace group insurance plan
  • private policy you purchased
  • Government programs such as CPP Disability, WSIB (Workers’ Compensation), ODSP, or the Disability Tax Credit

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our Ontario long-term disability lawyers have helped thousands of employees secure benefits after unfair denials or cut-offs.


Quick Answers: Long Term Disability Ontario

  • What is LTD in Ontario? Insurance that pays 60–70% of your income if illness or injury stops you from working.
  • Who qualifies? Anyone with LTD coverage who can’t perform their job, supported by medical evidence.
  • How long can you stay on LTD? Up to age 65, if you meet the policy’s definition of disability.
  • What happens after 2 years? The definition changes from “own occupation” (your job) to “any occupation” (any job suited to you).
  • Can you be fired on LTD? Your employer can’t terminate you just because of disability — that may be discrimination.

What’s In This Guide


What is Long Term Disability in Ontario?

Long-term disability insurance provides income replacement when you can’t work due to illness or injury.

Key Facts About LTD in Ontario:

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Who Qualifies for LTD in Ontario?

You qualify if:

  • You have active LTD coverage (through your employer or privately)
  • Your condition prevents you from doing your job
  • Your doctor supports your medical leave with documentation

Common conditions that qualify:

Even if your diagnosis isn’t listed, you may still qualify if symptoms stop you from working.

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What Does “Totally Disabled” Mean?

To get LTD, you must be considered “totally disabled” under your policy.

  • Own Occupation (first 2 years): You can’t perform the essential duties of your own job.
  • Any Occupation (after 2 years): You can’t perform the essential duties of any job suited to your education, training, or experience.

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How To Apply for LTD in Ontario

Applying for LTD involves forms, deadlines, and medical evidence.

✔ Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Confirm you have LTD coverage: Check through a workplace plan, union agreement, or private insurance policy.
  2. Get medical support: Speak to your doctor and confirm they support your claim. Medical backing is critical.
  3. Complete the claim package: Your insurer or HR department will provide application forms that you need to answer honestly and clearly. These usually include:
    • Claimant’s Statement (you fill out)
    • Employer’s Statement (your employer fills out)
    • Attending Physician’s Statement (your doctor completes)
  4. Include supporting documents: Attach medical records, test results, and any notes from specialists or therapists.
  5. Submit by the deadline: Many policies require you to apply within a specific time window after stopping work.

Helpful Tips:

  • Double check all dates and contact details before submitting
  • Keep a copy of everything you send to the insurance company
  • Ask your doctor to explain your functional limitations, not just your diagnosis

🚨 Watch out: If your application is missing a detail or your doctor’s form is vague, your claim could be denied.

Need help applying? Our long term disability lawyers Ontario can guide you through every step.

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How Much Does LTD Pay in Ontario?

Most LTD plans cover 60-70% of your gross income, up to a monthly cap.

💡 Example: If you earn $5,000/month and your policy pays covers 66.7%, your LTD payment would be $3,335/month before tax (if applicable).

Your insurer may deduct other benefits such as CPP Disability, WSIB, or EI Sickness.

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How Long Can You Stay on LTD?

You can stay on LTD until age 65 if you remain disabled under your policy’s terms.

  • Up to 2 years: You must prove you can’t perform your own job
  • After 2 years: You must show you can’t do any job you are reasonable suited for

If your benefits are cut off unfairly, contact us for a free consultation with a disability lawyer.

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What Happens After 2 Years on LTD?

The 2-year mark is when many insurers cut people off by claiming they can work in “any occupation.”

⚠️ You don’t need to be bedridden. If your condition stops you from doing a suitable job based on your background, you should still qualify.

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Why LTD Claims Get Denied in Ontario

Insurance companies frequently deny LTD claims — even when your have doctor support.

Common reasons for denial:

⚠️ Claim denied? Don’t Panic. Most denials can be challenged and successfully overturned with our legal help. Before you appeal, contact Samfiru Tumarkin LLP for a free consultation.

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Can You Be Fired While on LTD?

Your employer can’t fire you simply because you’re on long term disability. That may violate the Ontario Human Rights Code.

However, termination may occur if:

  • Medical evidence shows you are permanently unable to return (frustration of contract)
  • Your employer restructures or eliminates your role

Even then, you may still be owed severance pay in Ontario — up to 24 months’ pay — and human rights damages.

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Do LTD Benefits Continue After Termination?

Yes — in most cases, you can continue receiving long term disability (LTD) benefits even if your employer terminates your employment.

Here’s How It Works:

  • If you were already approved for LTD before your termination, your benefits usually continue uninterrupted
  • Most LTD policies are provided through a group insurance plan, and coverage remains in place if you were actively enrolled when you became disabled
  • Your employer typically has no control over whether the insurer stops your payments

What If You’re Fired Before Your LTD Claim is Approved?

If you’ve applied for LTD but haven’t been approved yet, the insurer may still process your application. The key factor is whether you had coverage on the date your disability began.

⚠️ Important: Termination doesn’t “cancel” your LTD eligibility if your claim is based on a disability that began before your last day of work.

Can Your LTD Be Cut Off After Termination?

  • Yes — but only if the insurer decides you no longer meet the definition of disability
  • Your employer can’t unilaterally cancel your LTD payments
  • Even if you’re terminated for cause, you may still qualify for LTD benefits, depending on your policy wording

What To Do If Your LTD Stops After You’re Fired

If your LTD benefits are discontinued after you’re let go, contact our Ontario disability lawyers immediately. You may have a claim for wrongful denial of benefits—and potentially severance or human rights compensation as well.

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Can You Travel While on LTD?

Yes, you can travel while receiving long term disability (LTD) benefits in Ontario — but only if the travel does not interfere with your recovery, treatment, or policy terms.

Many LTD policies do not outright ban travel, but they often include conditions such as:

  • Medical treatment must continue
  • Travel must not contradict your reported limitations
  • You may need insurer approval for extended or international trips

Why Travel Could Affect Your LTD Claim

Insurance companies may view travel as a sign you’re not “totally disabled.” They may use it to:

  • Justify denying your benefits
  • Argue you’re capable of work
  • Question your credibility — especially if you’re seen doing activities that go beyond your claimed restrictions

🎯 Example: If you’re on LTD for anxiety and depression and post vacation photos on social media showing high-energy activities, your insurer may question the legitimacy of your claim.

Before You Travel on LTD

  • Check your policy: Some require written approval.
  • Speak with your doctor: You may need a note saying travel won’t harm your recovery.
  • Limit social media: Posts can be misinterpreted and used against you.
  • Get legal advice if you’re unsure what your policy allows.

Even innocent vacations have led to claims being cut off. If your benefits are denied due to travel, a long term disability lawyer can help you challenge the decision.

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FAQs About LTD in Ontario

👉 Is LTD Taxable in Ontario?
If your employer pays the premiums, yes. If you pay, it’s usually not.
👉 Do You Need to Be Employed to Get LTD?
Yes, you must have active coverage when your disability begins.
👉 Can You Work While On LTD?
Some policies allow part-time or modified work. Always confirm with your insurer.
👉 Is Anxiety or Depression Covered by Long Term Disability in Ontario?
Yes, if your doctor confirms you can’t work.
👉 Can I Switch to CPP Disability if My LTD is Ending?
Yes, you may qualify for Canada Pension Plan Disability. Check with a disability lawyer at our firm first, as you may have been cut off your LTD prematurely and are owed compensation.
👉 Which Insurance Companies Deny LTD in Ontario?
Every major insurer in Ontario denies long-term disability claims, including Canada Life, Manulife, Sun Life, RBC Insurance, Empire Life, and Industrial Alliance:

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Real Legal Victories

Our disability lawyers at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP have helped thousands of people across Ontario challenge unfair LTD denials — and win.

🛡️ Denied doesn’t mean defeated. Our Ontario disability lawyers know how to hold insurers accountable.


Speak to an Ontario Disability Lawyer Today

If your long term disability benefits have been denied, delayed, or cut off, — don’t give up. An experienced Ontario LTD lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can protect your rights and help you recove the compensation you’re owed.

💲 No Upfront Fees

All LTD claims are handled on a contingency fee basis — meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you. We also offer free consultations to help you understand your options.

🛡️ Tip: The earlier you involve a lawyer, the more protected you are — especially if you’re approaching the 2-year mark or facing pressure to return to work.

Don’t give up. That’s exactly was the insurance company is counting on.

Book your FREE consultation with a long-term disability lawyer in Toronto at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP. We’ll deal with the insurer so you can focus on your health.

✅ 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 Ontario. He knows insurers’ strategies, and how to level the playing field in your favour.

Why Canadians Trust Samfiru Tumarkin LLP

  • 👥 Over 50,000 clients helped nationwide
  • 💰 Millions recovered in compensation
  • ⚖️ No win, no fee — you don’t pay unless we succeed
  • 2,311 5-star Google reviews across Ontario (4.8 average)
  • 🏆 Named one of Canada’s Best Law Firms by The Globe and Mail

Call us at 1-855-821-5900, email help@disabilityrights.ca, or request a free consultation today.

Unfortunately, Samfiru Tumarkin LLP does not assist with ODSP or WSIB denials. Please contact Legal Aid Ontario for support.

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