Disabled individuals reside throughout Canada, including the province of Ontario. When a disability makes it impossible for someone to continue to hold a job, he or she may want to apply for disability benefits from the Canada Pension Plan. As is the case with most governmental plans, to succeed there are multiple guidelines that need to be followed. If those rules are not followed, it can be difficult to secure the benefits.
CPP disability benefits are only available to people who are younger than 65, who meet the contribution requirements and have a disability that is prolonged or severe. As is the case with many governmental programs, the timing of the application is important. When benefits will begin is dependent on the date the completed application is received. Because of this, the sooner one files, the better. A written application should be filed as soon as someone is unable to regularly work at a job because of a terminal medical condition or prolonged and severe medical condition.
After an application is submitted the applicant will be contacted to let them know what to expect and provide an opportunity to answer any questions that arise. Generally, after completing an application there is a four month wait before an applicant learns whether he or she will receive benefits.
Recognizing there are situations where someone is dying and needs benefits as soon as possible, the review process is expedited for individuals who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness. There is a special application that individuals in this situation can complete that will be reviewed within two days of receipt. The idea is to get benefits to qualifying applicants with a terminal illness as quickly as possible.
Unfortunately, not all applications will be approved. Other times, the amount awarded may be insufficient. In these situations it is possible to seek to have that decision reconsidered. A lawyer can be of assistance in this.
If you, a friend or a family member are victims of someone’s negligence and suffering from injuries and losses, contact us to speak to one of our lawyers to know your rights and what steps you should be taking in order to protect your rights for the future.
