Return To Work: Group Long Term Disability (LTD)

There are two types of provisions to look for in your policy to find out what happens when you can return to work, but only part time.

The first provision is called a “Partial Disability Provision.” In essence, it provides that you receive a benefit if you are able to do some work, but are unable to work full-time – even if the partial disability is not preceded by a total disability.

Usually the definition of “partial disability” is the same as the definition of total disability but it is changed to read something like “….you can perform one or more but not all material duties of ……… occupation.”

Partial disability is generally a matter of hours. For example, you can work a few hours a day but not a whole shift, or a few days a week, but not five of them. It could also be a question of duties. For example, if you work in a warehouse you may be able to do the paperwork, but no longer lift boxes. Or you may be able to work in the head office, but are unable to travel every week.

The second provision is called a “Residual Disability.” It provides a benefit in the event of a partial disability, but only when it is a continuation after a period of total disability.

NOTE: The key to partial or residual benefits is that your medical record must show that, although you are well enough to work part-time, it is your medical condition that prevents you from working full-time. It can’t be by choice.

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