Glossary of Terms

A notice sent to the insurance company that notifies them they are being sued for your long-term disability benefits.

A form submitted by your lawyer to notify the insurance company that you are taking legal action for your long-term disability benefits. This form describes who the parties are, what orders they are seeking, the facts, and the law that supports the claim.

A pleading in response or defence to the notice of claim in civil law proceedings.

An assessment to determine whether your condition or illness prevents you from carrying out the duties of your current job.

Many policies have clauses that stipulate if your condition or illness existed before you signed up for coverage, then you will be excluded from collecting benefits. Other conditions that make you more susceptible to certain issues can also exclude you as well.

A timeframe where employers are able to terminate an employee without providing severance or notice. This is usually within the first 3-6 months of employment.

A settlement in a long-term disability may be a lump-sum payment. This would be one dingle payment that would cover the benefits you are entitled to, ending your dealings with the insurance company.

Short-term disability provides coverage for income replacement in case you cannot work due to an unexpected illness or injury. Typically, this will provide benefits for up to 6 months.

Ability to cancel an annuity or long-term disability insurance policy in exchange for its cash value. You end the policy and no longer owe future premium payments. This could result in additional fees plus income tax liabilities.

A test to determine that you meet your insurer’s definition of “totally disabled.” Usually, this involves assessing whether you can perform the vital duties of your current occupation.