I Was Denied Long-Term Disability Caused by COVID-19. What Can I Do?

People purchase long-term disability insurance policies specifically for times like these. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has plagued nearly the entire world, and there have been more than 6,000 cases in Canada alone. Unfortunately, many people suffering from the coronavirus and its impact are being denied the benefits they are entitled to. 

You may be able to obtain your long-term disability (LTD) benefits by filing an appeal with your insurer, depending on the circumstances of your case. Continue reading to learn more about who generally qualifies for long-term disability benefits and how to proceed with an appeal. 

Do You Qualify for Long-Term Disability Benefits?

Long-term disability benefits are available to those who have purchased an LTD policy and are unable to work for an extended period of time due to a medical condition. Every long-term disability plan is different, but many will provide up to 70 percent of your lost income for a maximum of two years. In most cases, you will need to have used up any sick time or paid time off before you can collect LTD benefits. 

It is important to note that the coronavirus is still new, and its long-term impact is unknown. Although many people who suffer from the disease will recover within two to six weeks, there are other, more serious cases that require the use of ventilators and will require long-term care and recovery. Furthermore, having been diagnosed with the coronavirus isn’t the only reason you may need to access LTD benefits. 

The coronavirus has had a significant impact on the mental health of many people. With nonessential businesses closed, the anxiety of the unknown, and the fear of what this pandemic may bring, people may need to seek treatment for their mental health during this trying time in their lives. 

How to Appeal a Denied LTD Claim

How we’ll approach your appeal will be largely determined by why your claim was denied in the first place. Did you fail to provide the appropriate supporting documentation? Did the insurance company wrongfully deny your claim? 

Having a lawyer help you with your appeal could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Your lawyer will be able to provide the insurance company with the information needed to expedite the approval of your claim and show the insurance company that you are serious about holding them accountable for the benefits that are rightfully yours. 

You can learn more about how the appeals process will work in your case after discussing your situation with your lawyer. 

Get in Touch with a Toronto Disability Lawyer

If you are interested in learning more about what options may be available to you or how the appeals process works, reach out to an experienced Toronto disability lawyer at Jasmine Daya & Co. You can schedule a free, no-obligation consultation by submitting the online contact form we have provided at the bottom of this page or giving our office a call at 416-967-9100.