Own occupation
You are considered disabled if you can no longer perform the essential duties of your own job, even if you could hold another. It is the most favourable definition, and the most expensive.
Any occupation
You are paid only if you cannot perform any gainful occupation for which you are reasonably qualified. It is the most restrictive definition: many denied claims rest on this wording.
Regular occupation, then any occupation
A common formula in group insurance: the favourable definition applies for an initial period — often two years — then switches to the restrictive one. A long-term disability therefore changes regime partway through.
Partial and residual disability
Some contracts provide a reduced benefit when you return to work part-time or suffer a loss of income without being totally disabled. Without this coverage, a gradual return can end the benefit entirely.
Non-cancellable or guaranteed renewable
A non-cancellable contract guarantees both the premium and the coverage to the stated age. A guaranteed renewable contract maintains the coverage, but the insurer may change the premium for a class of insureds. The difference costs money, and earns it.
What belongs to public plans
A workplace accident, a road accident, or a disability eligible for a public plan pension can give rise to separate benefits, which a private contract sometimes coordinates by reducing its own.
The question to ask your advisor
Ask for the exact definition, the period before any switch, and whether partial disability is covered. Those three answers determine the contract’s real value far more than the monthly amount advertised.
No rate, price, or recommendation on this page. Amounts and limits change: verify them with official sources before deciding.