Living with a disability can be challenging for a vast number of reasons, a couple of them being employment and finances. In some cases, a disability can prevent someone from working full time hours or from working at all. Many individuals lose the ability to do “activities of daily living”, like getting dressed, preparing and eating food, or keeping on top of personal hygiene. These scenarios can cause financial stress, which can consequently lead to issues with both mental and physical wellness.
Eric Girard (RSW) is a qualified Person’s with Disability (PWD) Assessor and has helped hundreds of individuals navigate the process of applying for private and public disability applications. Eric shares his insights on the disability process, types of disability assistance and tips on how to avoid scams.
How does someone arrive at the conclusion they may need to access disability?
Typically, the topic of pursuing disability starts with a conversation between you and your family physician or primary care provider. Having a conversation with a credible medical professional is crucial, as in most cases, they may need to be involved in filling out applications for disability services.
What are the different kinds of disability in BC?
There are four common disability streams that a person can access – three are government-provided and the other is through private insurance. Below is a very brief breakdown of all three, including a link to a website that has more details:
Persons With Disabilities (PWD). PWD is funded through the Provincial Government. A PWD application requires a PCP (Doctor or Nurse Practitioner) to fill out a section of the application, as well as an “assessor”. More info about PWD here: https://askanadvocate.ca/assistance-programs/disability-assistance/person-with-disabilities-pwd
Persons with Persistent and Multiple Barriers (PPMB). PPMB is similar in many ways to PWD. It is funded through the Provincial Government and requires a medical professional to fill out the application, which includes a Registered Social Worker. A PCP is not required to complete a PPMB application; however, having as much medical documentation about your disability as possible is very important. More info about PPMB here: https://askanadvocate.ca/assistance-programs/disability-assistance/people-with-persistent-multiple-barriers-to-employment-ppmb/
Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D). CPP-D is funded through the Federal Government. A CPP-D application requires a self-reported section to be completed by the applicant, and a medical report section to be filled out by a PCP. More info about CPP-D here: https://askanadvocate.ca/assistance-programs/disability-assistance/canada-pension-plan-disability-benefit-cppd/
Private Insurance Coverage. There are a multitude of jobs that come with employee group benefits, which sometimes includes coverage for both short and long-term disability. There are also private insurance plans that can be paid for by the individual, independent of an employer. Each plan can be quite different from the next, and it can be a confusing endeavor to make sense of the information. I also have experience in helping people decode, simplify, and understand what exactly they’re entitled to when it comes to disability plans through private insurance.
Gather the Necessary Documentation
When applying for disability benefits, you will need to provide comprehensive documentation. This can include:
- Medical records: Your doctor’s notes, diagnostic test results, and any other relevant medical documentation will be key in proving the severity of your disability.
- Proof of income and assets: For BC Disability Assistance, you’ll need to show proof of income (such as tax returns or pay stubs) and assets (like bank statements).
- Work history: For CPP-D, you’ll need a detailed record of your employment history and contributions to the Canada Pension Plan.
Being thorough and organized with these documents can significantly speed up the process.
Be Detailed and Clear About Your Disability
When describing your disability, be as detailed and clear as possible. Avoid being vague and instead, focus on how your condition affects your day-to-day life.
- Explain limitations: Describe how your disability affects your ability to perform everyday activities such as eating, dressing, working, and socializing.
- Document the progression: If your condition is progressive, explain how it has worsened over time.
The more specific you are, the more compelling your application will be.
Consider Legal or Advocacy Support
Navigating the disability benefits system can be complex, and many applicants find it helpful to consult with an advocate, lawyer, social worker or support organization. Its crucial to liaise with a credible professional, a simple mistake can cost you time and delay in receiving the support you need. There are companies out there who provide a service to people who are seeking assistance in filling out disability applications. However, in return for this service (and if the application is approved), the applicant agrees to give a percentage of each disability cheque to the company. This can add up to thousands of dollars over the lifetime of receiving disability assistance, especially if the applicant is a younger person.
Conclusion
The application process for disability benefits can be long and complex, but with the right preparation, support, and persistence, you can increase your chances of success. Be thorough, stay organized, and make sure to gather the necessary documentation to support your claim. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to qualified practitioners, like Eric who can review your application and suggest recommendations to make it as strong as possible. With patience and persistence, you can get the support you need.
Our experienced counsellors are dedicated to helping you enjoy a more fulfilling life and optimize your health to reach its fullest potential. Contact Eric today for a complimentary consultation and we can help you determine the best path forward.