Disability Insurance in Ontario
If you could not work for six months, how would you pay the bills? We connect Ontario residents and business owners with licensed advisors who find disability coverage that protects your income.
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Disability Insurance in Ontario
Your ability to earn an income is usually your most valuable asset. Disability insurance replaces part of that income if an illness or injury stops you from working, so you can keep paying your mortgage and bills while you recover.
It matters most for people without an employer plan, including the self-employed, business owners, trades and professionals. Government programs help, but they are limited, so most people need private coverage to protect their lifestyle.
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We are not an insurer or an advisor. We find you the right one.
Matched by need
We connect you with an advisor who works with businesses and families like yours.
Licensed life and health advisors
Life and health insurance advisors in Ontario are licensed by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA).
Fast follow up
Once we receive your information, a professional in our network will connect with you within 24 hours.
No cost to be matched
Our referral service is free. You deal directly with the advisor for quotes and coverage.
How disability insurance works
The basics
A disability policy pays a monthly benefit after a waiting period if you cannot work because of a covered illness or injury.
Monthly benefit, often up to a set share of your income
Waiting period before benefits start, commonly 30, 60, 90 or 120 days
Benefit period, from two years to age 65
Benefits are generally tax free when you pay the premiums personally
Own occupation or any occupation
The definition of disability is the most important part of the policy. Own occupation coverage pays if you cannot do your own job. Any occupation coverage pays only if you cannot do any job you are reasonably suited for. Professionals and skilled trades usually benefit from stronger own occupation wording.
What government programs cover
Employment Insurance sickness benefits can pay up to 26 weeks, but self-employed people only qualify if they have opted into the EI special benefits program in advance. CPP disability benefits have a strict definition for severe and prolonged disabilities. Neither is designed to replace a full income.
Who needs disability insurance most
Self-employed and business owners
If you stop working, your income stops. Business overhead expense coverage can also keep paying rent and staff while you recover. See our self-employed health insurance guide.
Trades and physical work
WSIB covers workplace injuries for covered workers, but not illness or injuries away from work. Disability insurance fills that gap.
Professionals and high earners
Group plans often cap benefits at a maximum that falls well short of higher incomes. An individual policy can top up group coverage.
Disability Insurance FAQs
Are disability insurance benefits taxable?
Benefits from a policy you pay for personally are generally not taxable. Benefits from an employer paid group plan are usually taxable.
How much does disability insurance cost?
Premiums depend on your age, occupation, health, income, the waiting period and the benefit period. Longer waiting periods lower the cost.
Does WSIB replace disability insurance?
No. WSIB covers work related injuries and illnesses for covered workers. It does not cover illness or injuries unrelated to work.
Can self-employed people get EI sickness benefits?
Only if they have registered for the EI special benefits program for self-employed people and met the requirements before they claim.
What is a waiting period?
The time between becoming disabled and when benefits start. Choosing a longer waiting period lowers premiums but means relying on savings for longer.
What to expect from a benefits advisor
A licensed advisor handles the details so you can make a clear decision.
1Discovery call
Share who needs coverage, what matters most and your budget. For businesses, bring your current plan and renewal if you have one.
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2Plan design
Your advisor recommends coverage levels and cost sharing that fit your needs, and explains the trade offs in plain language.
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3Compare insurers
Your advisor gathers quotes from multiple insurers and compares price, coverage and service side by side.
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4Enrol and support
Once you choose, your advisor handles the application and enrolment, and stays available for claims questions and renewals.
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