Applying for long-term disability (LTD) benefits? Boost the chances you’ll get approved on your first application!

1. Meet all deadlines in your LTD policy. If you don’t know the deadlines, ask your HR department or check with the insurance company.
2. Don’t assume your doctors know the details of your disability test. Share the exact wording of your test with anyone completing forms on your behalf.
3. Don’t complain to healthcare providers about paying for them to fill out forms or letters. It’s a professional service that takes their time and focus, so they deserve payment.
4. Return the insurance company’s calls and requests. If they say they need something, take action right away. Don’t wait for your employer or healthcare team to do it. Take initiative and respond yourself.
5. Meet all deadlines in other legislation if your initial application is denied. There are limitation periods that apply. Don’t miss the
   time frame during which you can take action.
6. Apply for Canada Pension Plan-Disability (CPP-D). If you have contributed to CPP-D while working, you may be eligible for a federally funded disability pension even if you are not retirement age. Getting CPP-D can help support your LTD claim.
7. You may be able to apply for Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). This is a provincial disability pension that is available to disable people of limited financial means.

If you are confused or experience any obstacles, call an experienced LTD lawyer. At Auger Hollingsworth, we’ve had great success getting early approval for denied or ignored LTD claims. We offer free initial consultations. There’s no benefit in putting off something as important as applying for LTD benefits!