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Disability Claims

For timely processing of Short Term Disability (STD) claims, follow the guidelines below to ensure your benefits are processed correctly.

Disability Claims


Disability claims under the Active Benefits Plan provide income replacement and support for members who are unable to work due to non-work-related illness or injury. This includes both Short-Term Disability (STD) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) coverage. Below is a detailed guide on how to make a disability claim.


How to Make a Short-Term Disability (STD) Claim


1. Notify Your Employer and Union


  • Inform your employer and IATSE Local 891 Benefits Office about your disability as soon as possible.

  • Obtain the Short-Term Disability Application Form from the union office or benefits website.


2. Complete the Claim Form


  • Fill out the Employee Statement section of the STD form.

    • Include details about your condition, your last day worked, and the expected duration of your disability.


3. Obtain a Physician’s Statement


  • Your attending physician must complete the Attending Physician’s Statement section of the form.

    • This should include your diagnosis, treatment plan, and an estimated recovery timeline.


4. Submit the Claim


  • Submit the completed claim form and supporting documents to Canada Life via:

5. Deadline for Submission


  • Submit the claim within 6 months of the disability onset. Delays may result in denial of benefits.


6. Payments


  • Approved claims will provide a flat weekly benefit, as per plan rules.

  • Payments are typically deposited directly into your bank account.


How to Make a Long-Term Disability (LTD) Claim


1. Transition from STD to LTD


  • If your disability extends beyond the 26-week STD coverage, your case will automatically transition to LTD.

  • Your Canada Life Case Manager will guide you through the process without the need for a new application.


2. Additional Medical Documentation


  • Provide updated medical reports or evaluations to confirm the long-term nature of your disability.

  • Canada Life may request further assessments or details about your condition.


3. Ongoing Monitoring


  • LTD claims may require periodic medical updates from your physician to ensure continued eligibility.

  • Canada Life may arrange independent medical evaluations to confirm the status of your disability.


Key Deadlines


  1. STD Claims: Submit within 6 months of disability onset.

  2. LTD Claims: Transition begins after 26 weeks of STD benefits; provide all requested updates promptly.


Required Documents


  • Employee Statement: Your personal details, job information, and disability details.

  • Employer Statement: Verification of your employment and earnings.

  • Physician’s Statement: Medical diagnosis, treatment plan, and expected recovery period.

  • Medical Reports: Additional medical evidence, such as diagnostic test results or specialist evaluations.


Reimbursement and Payments


STD Payments


  • Payments begin after the elimination period (usually 1-2 weeks of unpaid leave).

  • The benefit amount is based on a percentage of your regular income.


LTD Payments


  • Payments continue as long as you meet the plan’s disability definition and provide required updates.

  • The benefit amount may be subject to offsets for other income sources (e.g., CPP Disability).


Additional Information


Contact Information


For guidance or to obtain forms, contact the Benefits Office or visit www.benefitsoffilm.com.


Appeals Process


If your claim is denied, you may appeal to Canada Life by providing additional documentation or a second medical opinion.


Return to Work Support


Rehabilitation or gradual return-to-work programs may be offered for approved LTD claims.

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