What to Do if Your Disability Benefits Are Terminated
The sudden termination of your disability benefits can be a devastating blow, especially when you are still dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial impacts of your disability. Unfortunately, this is a reality many individuals in Ontario face, and understanding how to respond is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring you continue to receive the support you need. In this post, we will explore the steps you should take if your disability benefits are terminated.
1. Understand the Reason for Termination
The first step is to understand why your benefits were terminated. Insurance companies are required to provide a reason for the discontinuation of benefits, which is typically outlined in a termination letter. Common reasons include the insurer’s belief that you are no longer disabled, non-compliance with treatment, or an assessment that you can return to work in some capacity.
What to Do: Carefully review the termination letter to determine the insurer’s reasoning. This will help you decide the best course of action for disputing the termination.
2. Request a Copy of Your Insurance Policy
Your disability insurance policy is a key document that outlines your rights and obligations, as well as the insurer’s responsibilities. Understanding the terms and conditions of your policy is essential for determining whether the termination was justified.
What to Do: If you don’t already have a copy, request your full insurance policy from the insurer. Review the sections related to the definition of disability, duration of benefits, and grounds for termination.
3. Gather Medical Evidence
Insurance companies often terminate benefits based on a reassessment of your medical condition, sometimes after an independent medical examination (IME) or a review of your medical records. To contest the termination, you will need strong, up-to-date medical evidence that supports your ongoing disability and inability to work.
What to Do: Schedule appointments with your treating physicians to obtain detailed medical reports that outline the current status of your condition. Make sure these reports clearly explain why you are unable to return to work and how your condition impacts your daily life. If possible, include any new medical evidence that was not previously submitted to the insurer.
4. Consider Filing an Appeal
In Ontario, if your disability benefits are terminated, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process typically involves submitting additional medical evidence and may include a written submission or a formal hearing. The goal is to convince the insurer to reinstate your benefits based on the evidence provided.
What to Do: Carefully follow the insurer’s appeal procedures and be mindful of any deadlines. It’s important to submit a comprehensive appeal that addresses all the reasons for the termination and includes strong medical evidence to support your case.
5. Consult with a Disability Lawyer
Navigating the process of disputing a termination of disability benefits can be complex and overwhelming, particularly when you are already dealing with the challenges of your disability. An experienced disability lawyer can provide invaluable assistance by helping you understand your rights, gathering the necessary evidence, and representing you in negotiations or legal proceedings.
What to Do: Contact a lawyer who specializes in disability benefits claims as soon as possible. They can review your case, advise you on the best course of action, and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Conclusion
If your disability benefits have been terminated, it’s important not to panic. By understanding the reason for termination, gathering strong medical evidence, and consulting with a disability lawyer, you can take the necessary steps to challenge the decision and potentially have your benefits reinstated.
If you are facing the termination of your disability benefits, the experienced lawyers at Hilborn and Konduros in Cambridge, Ontario, are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the appeal process.
