Blue Cross Disability Insurance review, free quotes 2025
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Discover the methodologyIf you are unable to work due to a disability, Blue Cross Disability Insurance could be an essential source of support for you. It provides monthly benefits that are tailored to your specific needs, whether you're self-employed, a business owner, or lack employer benefits.
But why choose Blue Cross Disability Insurance? Discover in our comprehensive review how it works, the plans it offers, and more.
Remember to use our free comparator to explore the top disability insurance plans in Canada. Compare their coverage and receive free personalized quotes to determine whether Blue Cross is the best fit for you, or if another plan might suit your needs better.
Blue Cross disability insurance: Key Points
- Blue Cross disability insurance offers up to $120,000 a year.
- Coverage for self-employed and business owners.
- Flexible, customizable coverage options are available.
- Includes accident and illness coverage.
- No medical exam for certain plans.
- Blue Cross covers short-term disability and long-term conditions.
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Blue Cross Disability Insurance Review 2025
Blue Cross Disability Insurance, offered under the Global Plan, is a comprehensive solution tailored for individuals seeking robust protection against income loss due to accidents or illnesses. It provides 24/7 global coverage with up to $120,000 a year, ensuring that policyholders are protected no matter where they are.
Blue Cross disability insurance plan offers a wide range of monthly benefit options, from $500 to $10,000, much higher than providers like SSQ disability insurance which is capped at $6,000 per month. It comes with customizable increments to suit diverse financial needs. Benefit periods are also flexible, ranging from two years to coverage until age 65.
A standout feature of Blue Cross Disability Insurance is its focus on supporting policyholders through their recovery and return to work. The plan includes a return-to-work bonus, offering lump-sum payments to ease the transition back to employment after prolonged disability. Additionally, premiums are waived for policyholders who become totally disabled before age 60, alleviating financial stress during challenging times.
The optional benefit indexation further enhances the policy by adjusting payouts for inflation after 12 months of disability, making it a forward-thinking choice for long-term protection. Unique offerings, such as organ donation-related disability benefits and partial disability coverage, make this plan distinct in its ability to address nuanced scenarios.
Where Blue Cross shines is its adaptability, resembling the benefits of group plans while remaining accessible to individuals. This makes it a strong contender for professionals with demanding careers or those who work independently. The inclusion of global assistance services and provisions for premium refunds at retirement adds to its appeal for high-earning individuals or frequent travellers who value comprehensive, worldwide coverage.
However, the plan’s extensive offerings and premium customization might not suit individuals seeking basic or low-cost disability insurance. Some benefits also phase out for policyholders over the age of 60, limiting their utility for older clients. Additionally, those requiring simpler, straightforward coverage may find the extensive options overwhelming.
Expert advice
Blue Cross Disability Insurance is ideal for self-employed professionals and those without access to employer-sponsored plans, offering a robust safety net with global flexibility. However, the detailed customization and premium costs may not suit individuals on tighter budgets or those looking for simpler coverage. It’s a strong choice for those prioritizing comprehensive benefits and adaptability.
We recommend you compare how Blue Cross fares against other popular disability insurance providers in Canada. You can do it right here using our free comparator tool below. Explore plans and get free quotes based on your unique needs right here using our free tool.
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Pros of Blue Cross disability insurance
- Renowned Canadian insurance company.
- Up to $10,000 monthly disability benefits (Blue Vision plan).
- Coverage for self-employed, business owners, and others without employer benefits.
- Customizable plans to fit your budget.
- Options for accident-only or comprehensive accident and illness coverage.
- Premium refund available.
- Bonus for returning to work.
- Express plan with no medical exam required.
Cons of Blue Cross disability insurance
- Advisor consultation is required for purchase.
- Minimum of 20 work hours per week.
- No premium refunds post 46 years of age.
Who offers Blue Cross disability insurance?
Blue Cross is a collective of not-for-profit health insurance organizations in Canada, boasting over 7 million members. This federation encompasses various regional not-for-profit entities, united under the Blue Cross banner.
Its affiliations with the global Blue Cross network and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association in the U.S. extend its reach, offering an extensive network of top-notch service providers worldwide. Their Canadian associations include:
- Alberta Blue Cross (serving Alberta and the Northwest Territories)
- Ontario Blue Cross (part of Canassurance Hospital Service Association)
- Manitoba Blue Cross (Manitoba and Nunavut)
- Quebec Blue Cross (part of Canassurance Hospital Service Association)
- Pacific Blue Cross (serving BC and Yukon)
- Saskatchewan Blue Cross
- Medavie Blue Cross (serving Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, and Newfoundland and Labrador).
Blue Cross is widely recognized for its health and dental insurance, catering to both individual and group clients. Additionally, it has a significant presence in the travel and life insurance sectors. The company also provides competitive disability insurance options for both groups and individuals.
However, it's important to remember that their product offerings and pricing may differ across various provinces and territories. The specifics mentioned in this article pertain to the offerings of Ontario Blue Cross.
How much does Blue Cross disability insurance cost?
The cost of disability insurance, including Blue Cross's offerings, typically ranges between 1% to 3% of your annual income. This percentage depends on several factors such as age, occupation, health, and the specific coverage options chosen.
For instance, a person earning $70,000 annually might expect to pay between $700 and $2,100 per year for coverage.
Average disability insurance costs
Below is a table showcasing potential premium costs based on monthly benefit amounts and income levels:
| Income Level (Annual) | Monthly Benefit Amount ($) | Estimated Monthly Premium ($) | Estimated Annual Premium ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | 2,000 | 80 - 200 | 960 - 2,400 |
| $70,000 | 3,000 | 120 - 300 | 1,440 - 3,600 |
| $100,000 | 5,000 | 200 - 500 | 2,400 - 6,000 |
| $150,000 | 7,500 | 300 - 750 | 3,600 - 9,000 |
How Blue Cross disability insurance costs are calculated
- Percentage-Based Costs: Premiums are calculated as 1-3% of your annual income, reflecting the insurance industry's standard for disability insurance.
- Customization: Higher benefit amounts or extended coverage periods increase premiums, while shorter benefit periods and higher waiting periods can reduce costs.
- Factors Impacting Premiums: Age, health condition, and occupation significantly affect premium rates. For example, younger and healthier individuals often receive lower rates.
- Value of Coverage: While the cost might seem substantial, the protection offered by disability insurance ensures that policyholders can maintain their financial stability during unforeseen income disruptions.
You can get personalized Blue Cross disability insurance quotes right here using our special partner link below.
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Expert advice
When considering disability insurance like Blue Cross's plans, aim to select coverage that replaces at least 60-70% of your income. While premiums typically range from 1% to 3% of your annual income, prioritizing what you truly need can keep costs manageable. Remember, it's about protecting your financial stability, not over-insuring. Consult with an advisor through our special tool below to customize a plan that fits your unique situation without overburdening your budget.
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Why sign up for Blue Cross disability insurance?
A disability insurance policy from Blue Cross will:
- Provide a monthly income for you and allow you to support your lifestyle financially in the event illness or injury prevents you from working in the future.
- Give you the means to keep paying your mortgage.
- Pay for day-to-day expenses.
- Protect your savings and those of your household.
Good to know
Disability insurance is offered in two formats: Short-term and long-term. Read our extensive guides to know everything about short-term disability insurance and long-term disability insurance coverage in Canada. Get personal quotes in no time using our free comparator.
What does Blue Cross disability insurance offer?
Ontario Blue Cross offers several disability plans including:
- Blue Vision: Comprehensive Disability: This plan offers up to $ 10,000 monthly disability benefits. It is perfect for business owners, self-employed, and those seeking individual coverage.
- Blue Vision: Monthly Indemnity: This plan offers up to $2000 monthly disability benefits. It's designed for retirees, students, part-time employees, and people working hazardous jobs.
- Mortgage Disability Insurance: This plan offers up to $6000 per month and will protect your mortgage for either 24 months or until it is paid off.
- Express: Monthly indemnity: Finally, this plan offers up to $1000 per month for 1 year. The best part? It's available with no medical exam.
For more on Blue Cross's disability insurance see the pdf below.
Good to know
It is essential to compare disability insurance providers before zeroing in on a plan. Use our free comparator to explore plans from popular providers like iA disability insurance, RBC disability insurance, and more.
Does Blue Cross cover short term disability?
Yes, Blue Cross offers coverage for short-term disability. The plan includes options for short-term benefits with customizable waiting periods as low as 0 days for disabilities due to accidents, and benefits can extend for periods as short as two years. Short-term disability coverage is designed to provide financial support during temporary income disruptions caused by accidents or illnesses.
Here are key features of Blue Cross short-term disability coverage:
- Waiting periods can be as short as 0 days for accident-related disabilities.
- Short-term disability coverage can last for up to two years, depending on the policy chosen.
- Available for individuals aged 16 to 59.
- Benefits start immediately for hospitalizations over 18 hours, bypassing waiting periods.
- Short-term disability coverage applies 24/7 worldwide, ideal for frequent travellers.
It’s worth noting that specific details, such as the exact benefit duration, eligibility criteria, and conditions, may vary based on the plan selected. Reviewing your policy's terms or consulting a Blue Cross advisor through our partner link can help you determine the best fit for your needs.
How do I get Blue Cross disability insurance?
Blue Cross disability insurance coverage is available through licensed insurance brokers. Alternatively, reach one through the Ontario Blue Cross website or the Blue Cross association in your province.
You may compare disability insurance offers on HelloSafe's website to be put in contact with a disability insurance expert. Simply use our free comparator below to explore the best disability insurance options for you based on your unique needs.
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How do I contact Blue Cross?
Blue Cross has different customer care numbers based on which region of Canada you reside in. The best way would be to access the Blue Cross website dedicated to your province.
| Provider | Contact Number | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Medavie Blue Cross | 1-877-849-8509 | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM local |
| Pacific Blue Cross | Lower Mainland: 604 419-2000 Toll-free: 1 877 722-2583 | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Pacific (Excluding statutory holidays) |
