Manulife Disability Insurance Review, Quotes 2025
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Discover the methodologyDisability insurance is essential for protecting you and your family if you get sick or injured and can't work. It helps make sure you still have income to pay for everyday expenses and save money, keeping you financially secure during tough times.
Among the various options available, Manulife disability insurance stands out for its comprehensive coverage, customizable plans tailored to individual needs, and the reliability of one of Canada's largest insurance providers. But is it the right choice for you?
Read our complete Manulife disability insurance review exploring coverage options, pros, cons, eligibility, and more. Use our free tool to compare Manulife and Canada's best disability insurance plans and get free personalized quotes.
Manulife disability insurance: Key Points
- Coverage from a reputed provider.
- Maximum $6,000 monthly benefits for diverse demographics.
- Optional add-ons for tailored coverage flexibility.
- Simplified application, guaranteed renewal until age 90.
- Reduced rates for WSIB-covered employees.
- Mandatory consultation with Manulife advisor for purchase.
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Our Manulife Disability Insurance Review
Manulife Disability Insurance is a solid option for Canadians seeking customizable and reliable financial protection in case of an illness or accident that leaves them unable to work. It offers a variety of coverage options, including monthly income replacement of up to $6,000, accident-related disability benefits, critical illness riders, and hospitalization benefits. The flexibility to add optional coverage, such as illness-related disability benefits or premium waivers, makes it a highly customizable plan for various needs.
This insurance is particularly appealing for full-time employees, self-employed individuals, and those with high-risk jobs who need tailored coverage. Compared to some competitors like SSQ Insurance, Manulife stands out with its guaranteed renewal up to age 90 and its simplified application process with minimal qualifying questions, making it accessible to a broader demographic, including part-time workers and retirees.
Manulife’s strengths lie in its comprehensive options, such as partial disability benefits and rehabilitation support, and its discounted rates for employees covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB). However, the requirement to consult an advisor for purchase can be less convenient for those who prefer online applications.
Additionally, the primary focus on accident-related coverage, with illness benefits requiring add-ons, may not suit individuals seeking robust illness protection. Compared to iA Disability Insurance, which offers higher benefit ceilings and broader illness coverage in certain plans, Manulife may feel limited for those prioritizing illness-related disability insurance.
Manulife Disability Insurance is ideal for individuals looking for accident-focused, customizable coverage with flexible add-ons. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking fully integrated illness coverage or online purchasing convenience.
Expert advice
Manulife Disability Insurance is best for full-time employees, self-employed workers, and individuals in high-risk occupations seeking tailored, accident-focused coverage. Its guaranteed renewal until age 90 and flexible add-ons provide long-term value for diverse needs, but it may not suit those requiring comprehensive illness coverage as a core benefit.
Before zeroing in on Manulife, we recommend that you compare other disability insurance plans in the market. You can do it right here using our free tool. Click on the button below and explore the best disability insurance options in Canada, compare their coverage, and get free personalized quotes right here in no time.
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Pros of Manulife disability insurance
- High Coverage: Up to $6,000 monthly benefits.
- Customizable: Tailored coverage with optional add-ons.
- Accessible: Coverage for a wide range of employment statuses.
- Easy Application: Minimal qualifying questions.
- Renewable: Guaranteed coverage up to age 90.
Cons of Manulife disability insurance
- Accident Focus: Primary coverage for accidents; illness coverage requires add-ons.
- Higher Premiums: Add-ons and higher limits can increase costs.
- Lower Benefits for Some: Caps for non-workers or part-time workers.
What does Manulife disability insurance cover?
Manulife's Personal Accident Disability Insurance is designed to offer financial protection following an accident that leads to disability. This plan provides monthly payments to help cover expenses, replace income, or cover hospital and convalescence costs, offering a safety net in addition to other coverages.
The core plan includes total or partial accident disability benefits, accident hospitalization, accidental death, and rehabilitation benefits, among others. Optional add-ons allow for customization, such as extending accident coverage, adding illness-related disability coverage, and enhancing benefits for hospitalization and accidental death.
Key plan details include:
- Eligibility: Open to all, including full/part-time workers, business owners, unemployed, students, and retirees.
- Coverage: Guaranteed renewable up to age 90, with easy application and customization options.
- Benefits: Up to $6,000 monthly for those working over 30 hours a week; up to $1,000 for less or no work hours.
- Customization: Choose benefit periods (2 years, 5 years, or to age 65), start times, and optional add-ons to tailor the plan to your specific needs.
- Add-ons: Options for premium returns, extended coverage, and additional benefits for comprehensive protection.
- Offers: Discounted rates for employees insured by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
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.
How do I apply for a Manulife disability insurance policy?
You can apply for Manulife disability coverage using our special partner link below. You need to enter some very basic information on age, gender, location, and coverage desired, and you get free personalized Manulife disability insurance quotes in no time.
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Tips to keep in mind while applying for Manulife Disability Insurance Quotes
- Know Your Coverage Needs: Assess your monthly expenses, debts, and financial responsibilities to determine how much income replacement you require. Tools like the Manulife Disability Insurance Calculator can help.
- Compare Providers: Request quotes from multiple insurers to evaluate coverage options, premium costs, and added benefits like rehabilitation support or premium waivers. Use our free comparator tool below for quick quotes.
- Understand Policy Terms: Pay attention to details like waiting periods, benefit periods, and exclusions to ensure the policy fits your needs.
- Be Honest About Your Health: Provide accurate information about your medical history, smoking status, and occupation to avoid claim denials later.
- Customize Your Plan: Consider optional riders like partial disability coverage or return of premiums for added flexibility.
- Bundle Policies for Discounts: If possible, bundle disability insurance with life or critical illness insurance to reduce premiums.
- Check Employer Benefits: Review your existing workplace coverage to avoid duplicating benefits unnecessarily.
- Ask About Non-Taxable Benefits: Ensure the monthly benefits are non-taxable for maximum income replacement.
- Understand Costs: Disability insurance typically costs 1-3% of your annual income, so choose a plan that balances affordability and comprehensive coverage.
But before you decide Manulife is the right choice for you, you must compare disability insurance options from other providers. You can use our free comparator below to explore Canada's best disability insurance options, compare coverage, and get free personalized quotes right now.
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How much does Manulife disability insurance cost?
The cost of Manulife disability insurance, or any provider in Canada for that matter, typically ranges from 1-3% of your annual income. This percentage depends on factors such as your age, health, occupation, smoking status, and the specific coverage options you select. For example, a younger, healthy non-smoker with a low-risk office job will likely pay less than an older individual with a high-risk occupation.
Key factors affecting Manulife disability insurance quotes:
- Age and Health: Younger, healthier individuals generally pay lower premiums.
- Occupation: High-risk jobs (e.g., construction) incur higher premiums compared to low-risk professions (e.g., office work).
- Coverage Amount: Higher monthly benefit amounts and longer benefit periods will increase costs.
- Waiting Period: Policies with longer waiting periods before benefits start tend to be less expensive.
- Additional Riders: Optional add-ons, like partial disability or return of premiums, will increase your premium.
Manulife Disability Insurance Quotes 2025: Example
Here’s an approximate breakdown of costs based on annual income and coverage needs:
| Annual Income | Coverage (60% Income Replacement) | Approximate Monthly Premium (1%) | Approximate Monthly Premium (3%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $2,000/month | $40 | $120 |
| $60,000 | $3,000/month | $60 | $180 |
| $80,000 | $4,000/month | $80 | $240 |
| $100,000 | $5,000/month | $100 | $300 |
| $150,000 | $7,500/month | $150 | $450 |
For example
If you earn $60,000 annually, you might opt for a coverage amount of $3,000/month (60% of your income). Your premium could range from $60 to $180 per month, depending on the plan and options you choose.
Get free personalized quotes from Manulife to know your exact premiums right here using our free partner link below.
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Tips to get affordable disability insurance
- Adjust Waiting Periods: Opt for a longer waiting period to reduce premiums if you have savings to cover short-term expenses.
- Tailor Coverage: Only include riders or options that match your specific needs.
- Leverage Employer Plans: If you have partial coverage through your workplace, you may only need a supplementary plan.
For example
Consider a 35-year-old individual in a moderately risky occupation, looking to secure a disability insurance policy that provides a monthly benefit of $3,000, with a 90-day waiting period and benefits lasting until the age of 65. The premiums for this would be approximately $75 to $150 per month. Meanwhile, group disability insurance plans provided by your employer might be relatively economical. Take a look at our guide on group disability insurance in Canada.
We recommend that you compare quotes from multiple providers to get the best plan. Use our free tool below to compare disability insurance policies and get free quotes.
Get a free disability insurance quote
How do I contact Manulife disability insurance?
Below are the contact options for reaching Manulife regarding individual insurance inquiries and services:
| Contact Method | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| Telephone - English | 1-888-626-8543 (Open between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. EST Monday to Friday) |
| Telephone - French | 1-800-616-8843 |
| By Fax | 1-877-763-8834 |
| By Mail | Manulife Financial Individual Insurance 500 King Street North P.O. Box 1669 Waterloo, ON N2J 4C6 Canada |
How to file a Manulife disability insurance claim?
Here are the steps to file a Manulife disability insurance claim:
- Online Submission:
- If online claims are available for your plan, log in at Manulife.ca.
- Click on Submit a Disability Claim in the right-hand menu.
- Choose the benefits you're applying for (STD, LTD, AMCS, CI, or AD&D) and follow the steps.
- Information Needed:
- Plan contract number (found on your benefits card or plan member site).
- Contact information, job details, and salary information.
- Details about your condition or injury, including symptoms.
- Treating physician(s) contact information.
- Documents You May Need:
- Void cheque: Take a picture and upload it for direct deposit.
- Police report: Include this if the claim is related to a motor vehicle accident.
- Attending Physician’s Statement (APS): Print the form, have it completed by your doctor, and upload it online or send via email, fax, or mail.
- Authorization Form: Print, sign, and send it to Manulife (instructions provided after submitting your claim online).
- Need Help?:
- Call 1-877-481-9169 for assistance or to request missing forms.
You can download free Manulife disability insurance forms to file your claims, right here.
How much disability insurance do you need?
The amount of disability insurance you need depends on your financial responsibilities, income, and lifestyle. A good rule of thumb is to aim for coverage that replaces 60-85% of your after-tax income, ensuring you can meet essential expenses like housing, bills, and childcare during a disability.
Key Considerations for Choosing Coverage
- Income Replacement: Start by calculating your monthly expenses (e.g., rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries) and factor in long-term needs like education costs or retirement savings.
- Debts: Consider coverage that will help you continue paying loans, such as mortgages or car payments.
- Future Expenses: If you have children, plan for costs like education or daycare.
- Savings and Other Benefits: Subtract any savings, investments, or employer-provided benefits to estimate your coverage gap.
Using the Manulife Disability Insurance Calculator
Manulife offers the InsureRight Calculator, an easy tool to determine your disability insurance needs based on your current financial situation. Here’s how it works:
- Enter Personal Information: Provide details like your age, employment status, and annual income.
- Customize Analysis: Choose whether the analysis applies to just you or includes your partner and children.
- Get Recommendations: The calculator will assess your financial data and provide a tailored estimate of how much disability insurance you may need.
The InsureRight Calculator simplifies this process, offering clear insights into how to secure your financial future. You can access the tool online or ask your advisor for guidance.
