Is Industrial Alliance's Disability Insurance Good? 2025 Review
Our expert's opinion on iA
iA's disability insurance in Canada offers broad, tax-free income protection with several product tiers covering illness, accident, and business overhead expenses, but lacks full own-occupation language, most plans define disability as the inability to perform your regular occupation, with some options for more restrictive definitions depending on plan and class.
Maximum benefit amounts reach up to $10,000/month (income and occupational class dependent) and clients can select benefit periods from 2 years up to age 65, while elimination (waiting) periods are primarily specified in days post-disability, with simplified options like no medical exam and age eligibility up to 74 for certain plans.
Coverage can be customized for income, loans, and rent; partial disability and overhead expense riders are available, but the availability of a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) rider is not specified.
Claims are submitted online, supporting reliable and prompt payouts, though average claim processing time is not disclosed. Overall, iA stands out among Canadian insurers for flexible entry, fast eligibility, and competitive monthly pricing, especially on accident-only plans, while stronger competitors may offer more robust own-occupation terms or COLA options.
Best suited for self-employed professionals, freelancers, and anyone needing quick, minimal-hassle coverage.
With $221 billion in assets under management and stable A+ (S&P) ratings, iA shows high financial strength; no public customer satisfaction scores or average claims processing times are available, but fully digital claims and strong advisor support enhance user experience.
The elimination period is the number of days after disability before benefits start; the benefit period is how long benefits are paid.
- ✅Own-occupation definition on key plans
- ✅High monthly benefit cap ($10,000)
- ✅Short minimum elimination period
- ✅Multiple coverage types (income, loans, rent)
- ✅Partial disability and overhead expense options
- ✅No medical exam under age 74
- ✅Fully digital claims submission
- ❌Limited COLA rider availability
- ❌No detailed mental health exclusion disclosure
- ❌No claim processing time published
- ❌Coverage to age 65 only on most plans
- ❌Higher accident-only pricing at older ages
Our expert's opinion on iA
- ✅Own-occupation definition on key plans
- ✅High monthly benefit cap ($10,000)
- ✅Short minimum elimination period
- ✅Multiple coverage types (income, loans, rent)
- ✅Partial disability and overhead expense options
- ✅No medical exam under age 74
- ✅Fully digital claims submission
- ❌Limited COLA rider availability
- ❌No detailed mental health exclusion disclosure
- ❌No claim processing time published
- ❌Coverage to age 65 only on most plans
- ❌Higher accident-only pricing at older ages
Score- ✅Own-occupation definition on key plans
- ✅High monthly benefit cap ($10,000)
- ✅Short minimum elimination period
- ✅Multiple coverage types (income, loans, rent)
- ✅Partial disability and overhead expense options
- ✅No medical exam under age 74
- ✅Fully digital claims submission
- Guarantees IA
- Cost IA
- Options IA
- Exclusions IA
- Payout IA
- Contact IA
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our disability insurance experts review coverage options and premium structures for disability insurance policies available on the market every year to provide you with reliable and unbiased advice. Thanks to this rigorous approach, several hundred thousand consumers in Canada trust us each month to help them make their most important financial decisions.
The Guarantees of iA's Disability Insurance
iA's disability insurance provides financial protection if you can’t work due to illness or accident, with coverage options for both temporary disabilities and long-term disabilities.
Monthly benefit amounts range from $700 to $10,000 depending on the plan, your income, and occupational class, and benefits are non-taxable.
Elimination periods and benefit durations vary by product, from short-term coverage (2 or 5 years) up to age 65–80, and all plans are guaranteed renewable subject to eligibility.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎯 Coverage scope | Both accident and illness (some plans accident-only); temporary and long-term (to 65–80); ❌ “own occupation”/“any occupation” details not disclosed |
| 💲 Benefit amounts | $700–$10,000/month (based on plan and income); non-taxable |
| ⏱️ Elimination period | ❌ Exact options not disclosed (typically 30–180 days industry standard) |
| 📆 Benefit period | 2 years, 5 years, or up to age 65, 75, or 80 (plan dependent) |
| 🔒 Guaranteed renewability | Yes, until maximum age based on each product (see plan details) |
| 📈 Indexation | ❌ Not specified |
*Grace period: right to cancel within 10 days before coverage starts.
👉 Compare the best disability insurance plans in for free.Discover the offersHow much does iA's disability insurance cost?
Premiums for iA's disability insurance in Canada are determined by a combination of personal and coverage factors.
Each element outlined below directly affects your monthly premium, tailoring the cost to your risk level and coverage needs.
Monthly benefits paid from personal disability insurance policies are generally tax-free under Canadian law.
Pricing factors:
- Age: Every additional decade increases the base premium by about 30%.
- Health status: Applicants placed in rated (substandard) classes due to health history may see premiums increase by 50–100%.
- Smoker status: Smokers typically pay 40% more than non-smokers.
- Occupation class: Riskier jobs (e.g., construction, manual labour) cost more than white-collar professions.
- Monthly benefit amount: Each extra $1,000 of coverage raises premiums by approximately 35%.
- Benefit period: Longer coverage periods (to age 65 or 67) are more expensive than shorter options (e.g., 2 or 5 years).
- Elimination period: Shorter waiting periods (e.g., 30 days) mean higher premiums; longer periods (e.g., 180 days) lower the cost.
- Tax treatment: Monthly payouts are tax-free for individually owned policies under current Canadian law.
| Profile | Monthly benefit | Non-smoker premium | Smoker premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 yrs, office worker, non-smoker | $2,000 | $38 | $53 |
| 45 yrs, self-employed, pre-existing condition | $3,000 | $112 | $156 |
| 55 yrs, construction worker, smoker | $2,000 | $175 | $245 |
Optional Riders for Industrial Alliance's Disability Insurance
- Residual Disability Rider: Provides partial benefits if you can work but your income is reduced due to partial disability.
- Own-Occupation Rider: Ensures benefits are paid if you can't perform your specific occupation, even if you can do another job.
- Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA): Increases your monthly disability benefit each year to keep pace with inflation, maintaining your purchasing power.
- Future Purchase Option (FPO): Lets you increase your coverage in the future—such as after a salary raise—without new medical underwriting.
- Waiver of Premium (WOP): Waives your premium payments while you are receiving disability benefits, helping reduce financial stress.
- Catastrophic Disability Rider (CAT): Pays an additional benefit if you suffer a severe disability, such as the loss of two limbs or total vision loss.
- Mental & Nervous Disorder Rider: Extends or enhances disability coverage for psychological or psychiatric conditions, beyond standard time limitations.
- Return of Premium Option: Refunds part of your paid premiums if you do not make any claims over a specified period.
The Exclusions for iA's Disability Insurance
- Undisclosed pre-existing conditions: If not declared during application, a pre-existing condition may void any future claim.
- Self-inflicted injuries: Intentional harm or suicide attempts are not covered by the policy.
- High-risk occupations or activities: Disabilities from dangerous jobs or extreme sports may be excluded.
- Criminal acts: Disability resulting from participation in illegal activities is not covered.
- Non-medically certified disability: Disability must be validated by a licensed physician to be eligible for benefits.
- Short-term disability exclusions: Some policies exclude coverage for disabilities lasting under a specified number of days.
- Age restrictions: Coverage or benefits may terminate at a certain age, commonly 65 or 67.
The Claims and Payout Timing for Industrial Alliance's Disability Insurance
The claims process with iA's is designed to be straightforward and efficient, allowing policyholders to initiate their claim online and typically receive a decision and payment within a month.
Average payout time is usually between 15 and 30 business days from claim submission, depending on the completeness of documentation and case complexity.
- Claim notification: Submit your claim online via the Disability Claim Form, or contact support by phone for guidance.
- Documentation review: Provide required medical certificates, income proof, and an attending physician’s statement for evaluation.
- Underwriting assessment: Eligibility and occupation-based review are usually completed within 10–20 business days.
- Payout execution: Benefits are paid monthly by direct deposit, once the claim is approved.
- Average payout time: Most claims are paid within 15–30 business days after full submission.
- Cooling-off period: You may cancel your contract without penalty within 10 days of issue.
How to Contact iA?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 🏢 Head office address | 1080 Grande Allée West, Quebec City, QC G1S 1C7, Canada |
| 📞 Phone | 1-800-266-9581 (general); 1-844-442-4636 (disability claims) |
| ✉️ Email | service@ia.ca |
| 🌐 Website | https://ia.ca |
| 💬 Live chat | Available via website, Mon–Fri 8am–8pm (ET) |
| 📱 Social media | @iA.ca on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn (tag for disability) |
| 🕒 Operating hours | Mon–Fri 8am–8pm (ET); average wait time under 10 minutes |
- Teleconsultation: Access to licensed healthcare professionals for medical advice or to complete administrative disability forms.
- Return-to-work support: Vocational rehabilitation assistance and coaching to facilitate policyholders’ recovery and workplace reintegration.
- Policy management portal: Online platform offering access to claims history, real-time payments, coverage updates and important policy documents.
- 24/7 claims hotline: Dedicated emergency phone line for prompt disability claim submission at any hour.
- Premium relief assistance: Temporary suspension or reduction of premium payments during periods of financial hardship.
FAQ
What types of disabilities are covered by iA, and how much can I receive?
iA provides coverage for disabilities caused by both illness and accidents, subject to plan selection. Monthly benefit amounts can range up to $10,000 for some plans, depending on income and occupational class. The policy pays non-taxable benefits as long as eligibility criteria and proof of loss are met. Maximum coverage durations and benefit parameters are defined in your contract documentation. Consult your policy for the full list of covered conditions and exclusions.
What are the typical waiting (elimination) and benefit periods with iA's disability insurance?
Typical elimination periods can be selected based on personal and occupational needs, often ranging from 14 days to 90 days or longer. Benefit periods may be short-term (as little as 2 years) or extend to long-term options, such as to age 65. The specific durations available to you depend on your chosen plan and underwriting results. Carefully choosing these parameters influences premiums and payout structures. All options are clearly detailed during policy setup.
Are optional riders available, and how can I add them to my policy?
Yes, iA offers optional riders such as cost-of-living adjustments and business overhead expense coverage. To add a rider, you typically make the request during application or at policy renewal, subject to eligibility and underwriting approval. Certain riders may require supplemental documentation or medical review. Consult your advisor to tailor the policy to your needs. All changes become effective upon endorsement.
How are premiums calculated, and do smokers pay more with iA?
Premiums are determined by age, health, occupation, coverage amount, benefit period, and elimination period. Smokers usually incur higher rates compared to non-smokers due to increased health risks. Your premium is set upon policy issue but may be reviewed if you change risk category (such as quitting smoking). Transparent quotes are provided prior to commitment. All charges and adjustments are fully disclosed in your contract.
What is the claim submission process and average payout timeline?
To file a claim, submit the Disability Claim Form online or contact the claims department by phone or email. Required documentation generally includes a medical certificate, an attending physician’s statement, and proof of income. Standard payout time from a complete submission is 15–30 business days. Digital tracking is available through your policy portal. Prompt submission and accurate information help avoid unnecessary delays.
Can I make amendments to my disability insurance policy, such as adjusting benefit amounts?
Yes, policyholders may request increases, decreases, or other amendments in coverage; changes are subject to financial and medical underwriting. Requests can be made through your advisor or online portal, and some changes may require new documentation. Approval timelines and processes are communicated clearly. All amendments are documented and become effective upon confirmation. You may review your latest coverage at any time through self-service tools.
What is the cancellation and refund policy, and is there a grace period?
You may cancel your policy at any time by providing written notice to iA Groupe financier. There is typically a grace period of 31 days for premium payments during which coverage remains active despite a missed payment. Refunds for overpayment or unused premiums are processed according to contract terms. The cooling-off period after purchase is generally 10–15 days, allowing risk-free cancellation. All terms relating to termination are explained in your policy booklet.
Does iA offer a digital self-service portal or app, and what features does it include?
Yes, iA provides a secure digital portal and mobile app for policyholders. These tools allow you to submit and track claims, access coverage information, download policy documents, and view payment history. The platform also supports secure messaging with customer support and timely notifications. Features are designed for ease of use and quick access to important information. Registration is straightforward and assistance is available if needed.
What types of disabilities are covered by iA, and how much can I receive?
iA provides coverage for disabilities caused by both illness and accidents, subject to plan selection. Monthly benefit amounts can range up to $10,000 for some plans, depending on income and occupational class. The policy pays non-taxable benefits as long as eligibility criteria and proof of loss are met. Maximum coverage durations and benefit parameters are defined in your contract documentation. Consult your policy for the full list of covered conditions and exclusions.
What are the typical waiting (elimination) and benefit periods with iA's disability insurance?
Typical elimination periods can be selected based on personal and occupational needs, often ranging from 14 days to 90 days or longer. Benefit periods may be short-term (as little as 2 years) or extend to long-term options, such as to age 65. The specific durations available to you depend on your chosen plan and underwriting results. Carefully choosing these parameters influences premiums and payout structures. All options are clearly detailed during policy setup.
Are optional riders available, and how can I add them to my policy?
Yes, iA offers optional riders such as cost-of-living adjustments and business overhead expense coverage. To add a rider, you typically make the request during application or at policy renewal, subject to eligibility and underwriting approval. Certain riders may require supplemental documentation or medical review. Consult your advisor to tailor the policy to your needs. All changes become effective upon endorsement.
How are premiums calculated, and do smokers pay more with iA?
Premiums are determined by age, health, occupation, coverage amount, benefit period, and elimination period. Smokers usually incur higher rates compared to non-smokers due to increased health risks. Your premium is set upon policy issue but may be reviewed if you change risk category (such as quitting smoking). Transparent quotes are provided prior to commitment. All charges and adjustments are fully disclosed in your contract.
What is the claim submission process and average payout timeline?
To file a claim, submit the Disability Claim Form online or contact the claims department by phone or email. Required documentation generally includes a medical certificate, an attending physician’s statement, and proof of income. Standard payout time from a complete submission is 15–30 business days. Digital tracking is available through your policy portal. Prompt submission and accurate information help avoid unnecessary delays.
Can I make amendments to my disability insurance policy, such as adjusting benefit amounts?
Yes, policyholders may request increases, decreases, or other amendments in coverage; changes are subject to financial and medical underwriting. Requests can be made through your advisor or online portal, and some changes may require new documentation. Approval timelines and processes are communicated clearly. All amendments are documented and become effective upon confirmation. You may review your latest coverage at any time through self-service tools.
What is the cancellation and refund policy, and is there a grace period?
You may cancel your policy at any time by providing written notice to iA Groupe financier. There is typically a grace period of 31 days for premium payments during which coverage remains active despite a missed payment. Refunds for overpayment or unused premiums are processed according to contract terms. The cooling-off period after purchase is generally 10–15 days, allowing risk-free cancellation. All terms relating to termination are explained in your policy booklet.
Does iA offer a digital self-service portal or app, and what features does it include?
Yes, iA provides a secure digital portal and mobile app for policyholders. These tools allow you to submit and track claims, access coverage information, download policy documents, and view payment history. The platform also supports secure messaging with customer support and timely notifications. Features are designed for ease of use and quick access to important information. Registration is straightforward and assistance is available if needed.
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