Build a claim scenario and see whether it pays under each definition of disability: own, regular, any, and total (CPP).
Occupation class
Can you still perform the primary duties of your own occupation?
Have you returned to work in a different occupation?
Are you able to work in any other occupation suited to your education & experience?
Is the condition likely permanent (little chance of recovery)?
How this works. The four definitions run from most liberal to most stringent:
own occupation pays if you cannot do your specific job (even while working elsewhere);
regular occupation is similar but reduces or terminates benefits if you go back to other work;
any occupation pays only if you cannot do any job you are suited for; and
total disability (CPP) requires being unable to do any occupation with little chance of recovery.
Own- and regular-occupation coverage is generally sold only to the highest occupation classes (4A/3A);
change the class to see availability narrow.
Educational illustration of standard Canadian insurance concepts. Figures are illustrative, not an insurer’s rates.
Illustration only, not a quote or advice. Figures are simplified for education and do not
reflect any specific insurer's rates. Consult a licensed advisor.