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Short-Term Disability in Ontario: Guide to STD Benefits, Pay & Denials)
Short-term disability benefits replace part of your income when a medical condition prevents you from doing your job. In Ontario, STD is typically provided through your employer's group insurance plan, a private disability insurance policy, or in some cases a union agreement. There is no government-mandated short-term disability program in Ontario, which means your entitlements depend entirely on what your plan provides and how your insurer interprets it.
Was your short-term disability claim denied or are you worried about the transition to LTD?
STD denials are common and often successfully challenged on appeal. Timing matters — most insurers set strict appeal deadlines. Get legal advice before that window closes.
Call: 1-800-771-7882 Speak With a Disability LawyerShort-term disability in Ontario at a glance
What short-term disability covers
Short-term disability replaces a portion of your income when a medical condition prevents you from performing the essential duties of your job. It is designed for temporary conditions rather than permanent disability. Common situations covered include recovery from surgery, serious illness, mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression, workplace or non-workplace injuries, and pregnancy-related complications that prevent you from working before delivery.
Your plan's definition of disability matters significantly. Most plans require that you be unable to perform the essential duties of your own occupation during the STD period. Review your benefits booklet carefully, as the exact wording of this definition affects your eligibility.
How much does short-term disability pay in Ontario?
STD payment amounts vary by plan. Most employer group plans pay between 60 and 70 percent of your regular gross income. Some plans provide 100 percent income replacement for a limited initial period before stepping down. Payments are typically made weekly or bi-weekly. Some plans have a waiting or elimination period of several days before benefits begin.
| Feature | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Benefit amount | 60% to 70% of gross salary | Some plans pay up to 100% for a limited initial period |
| Duration | 15 to 26 weeks | Some plans extend to 52 weeks |
| Waiting period | 0 to 14 days | Check your plan — some require a waiting period before benefits start |
| Payment frequency | Weekly or bi-weekly | Varies by plan |
| After STD ends | Transition to LTD if eligible | EI sickness benefits or ODSP may also apply |
How to apply for short-term disability in Ontario
Review your policy or benefits booklet
Before applying, understand your plan's definition of disability, the elimination period, the payment amount, and the duration. Your HR department or benefits administrator can provide your benefits booklet if you do not have it.
Get medical documentation from your doctor
Your attending physician must complete the medical section of the application form, outlining your diagnosis, functional limitations, current treatment, and expected duration. The more specifically the form links your symptoms to your inability to perform your job duties, the stronger your application.
Complete your employee statement and notify your employer
You must complete the employee portion of the claim form and your employer completes a separate section confirming your job duties and earnings. Notify your employer and submit all forms together within the deadline set by your plan.
Respond to insurer requests promptly
Your insurer may request additional information, updated medical reports, or schedule an independent medical examination. Respond to these requests promptly. Delays in responding can be used as grounds to deny or suspend benefits.
Did your insurer request an independent medical examination or dispute your doctor's findings?
Insurers sometimes use IMEs and paper reviews to challenge valid claims. Understanding your rights before agreeing to any insurer-requested examination can protect your claim. Get legal advice before participating.
Get Advice Before Your IME Or call us: 1-800-771-7882Why STD claims are denied in Ontario
What to do if your STD claim is denied
Short-term vs. long-term disability: the key differences
Short-term disability covers temporary inability to work, typically for 15 to 26 weeks. Long-term disability applies when your condition continues beyond the STD period. Many disputes arise during the transition from STD to LTD, as the definition of disability in the LTD policy may be different and the application process starts fresh. If your condition is expected to continue beyond your STD period, begin planning the LTD application process before your STD benefits end to avoid a gap in coverage.
Frequently asked questions about short-term disability in Ontario
How long does short-term disability last in Ontario?
Short-term disability typically lasts between 15 and 26 weeks in most Ontario employer group plans. Some plans extend to 52 weeks. The exact duration depends entirely on your insurance policy. After STD benefits end, you may be eligible to transition to long-term disability benefits if your condition continues.
How much does short-term disability pay in Ontario?
Most plans pay between 60 and 70 percent of your regular gross income. Some plans provide 100 percent income replacement for a limited initial period before stepping down. Some plans also have an elimination period of several days before payments begin. Review your benefits booklet for your specific plan details.
What qualifies for short-term disability in Ontario?
You generally qualify if you have coverage under a disability insurance plan and you are unable to perform the essential duties of your occupation due to illness, injury, or a medical condition. Your treating physician must provide medical documentation supporting your inability to work. Eligibility rules vary between plans and you should review your benefits booklet for the specific definition of disability in your policy.
Can I be fired while on short-term disability in Ontario?
Being on STD does not provide automatic protection from termination. Your employer cannot terminate you for discriminatory reasons connected to your disability under the Ontario Human Rights Code. However, termination for other reasons may still occur with proper notice or severance. If you are terminated while on STD, speak with an employment lawyer before signing any documents or accepting any offer.
What happens if my short-term disability claim is denied?
A denial is not final. You can file an internal appeal, typically within 30 to 90 days of the denial. You should submit additional medical evidence and clarification from your treating doctor addressing the insurer's stated concerns. If the internal appeal is unsuccessful, legal action to recover benefits is available. Getting legal advice early in the process significantly improves your chances of a successful outcome.
What happens when short-term disability ends in Ontario?
When STD benefits expire, you may be eligible to transition to long-term disability benefits through your plan if your condition continues. You may also be eligible for Employment Insurance sickness benefits if you have not already exhausted them. If you remain unable to work and do not have LTD coverage, the Ontario Disability Support Program may be available depending on your circumstances.
Speak with an Ontario disability lawyer
Whether your STD claim was denied, your benefits were terminated early, or you are navigating the transition to long-term disability, our team can help. We advise employees across Ontario on disability claims, insurer disputes, and wrongful termination during disability leave. Contact us for a confidential consultation.
Call us at 1-800-771-7882 or fill out the form below and we will be in touch.