Henry T., a 44-year-old federal government employe in Ontario, was unable to perform his tasks in August 2021 due to a serious medical condition. His short-term and long-term disability (LTD) claims were first accepted by Manulife.
At the two-year milestone, claims are formally reviewed under the majority of Canadian LTD plans. At this point, the more stringent “Any Occupation” requirement (inability to perform any profitable occupation for which you are fairly equipped by education, training, or experience) replaces the “Own Occupation” standard (inability to execute your unique job).
When Henry reached the two-year mark in August 2023, Manulife terminated his $2,500 monthly benefit—arguing that he no longer met the policy definition of “Totally Disabled.” This decision came despite clear documentation from Henry’s treating physician stating his condition had not improved and that he remained medically unable to work in any capacity.
Unsure how to challenge a major insurer while managing health issues and growing financial pressure, Henry kept the denial letter and sought assistance.
Overwhelmed, facing financial distress, and struggling to navigate complex insurance jargon, Henry held on to his denial letter, unsure of how to fight a multi-billion-dollar insurance giant alone.
When Henry reached out to DisabilityWise, our paralegal-led advocacy team immediately jumped into action to conduct a complete Medical-Legal Clinical Audit of his file.
Our review revealed that Manulife’s assessors had overlooked key clinical progress notes provided by Henry’s physician. These notes contained critical observations that directly supported his ongoing functional limitations.
Working alongside healthcare professionals and advocates, we translated Henry’s medical documentation into a structured profile detailing his concrete functional restrictions. We compiled his treating doctor’s reports, a detailed symptom narrative, and relevant policy terms into a clear, organized file.
With his record prepared, DisabilityWise connected Henry with an experienced LTD lawyer from our partner network. Because the evidence was organized and ready for review, the law firm accepted the case on a contingency fee arrangement (“No Win, No Fee”).
With a thoroughly documented record submitted by trial counsel, negotiations began with Manulife’s legal team.
On December 3, 2025, the matter was resolved out of court for a total lump-sum settlement of $205,000. This payment covered 28 months of retroactive back-pay along with a negotiated settlement for future benefit entitlements.
“When Manulife cut off my income after two years, I thought I had no options left. DisabilityWise audited my file, found the missing doctor notes that Manulife overlooked, and matched me with an incredible trial lawyer who fought for me. They restored my financial security when I needed it most.”
— Henry T., Ontario