The difference between short term and long term disability insurance is generally the period of time for which these benefits are offered and designed to help replace your missing income and the nature and severity of impairment. Short term disability benefits usually cover up to six month, and long term disability benefits can last years. In Ontario you can apply for two, five or 10 years of benefit periods, or until retirement.
Short term disability insurance provides the injured claimant with “short term” replacement wages in order to supplement a temporary time off work. Long term disability insurance is designed to supplement your long term income in the case that your injury completely prevents or decreases your ability to work over a period of time.