Depending on where you are in the claims process, Sokolove Law is here to help. If you have filed a claim and have already received a denial you believe to be unjust, we offer a free, legal consultation to help determine whether you have a case against your insurer.
Filing a Disability Claim: Understanding Your Policy
When you have been injured or diagnosed with a debilitating illness, you may feel overwhelmed with your current situation and anxious about the future.
At this point in time, all you know for sure is that you’re in no condition to work. While you know you have long term disability insurance, you don’t know what it covers or what criteria you must meet to qualify for benefits.
Before filing a long term disability claim, it’s important to have at least a basic understanding of your policy. Being educated about its terms and coverage limits will help you feel more confident when dealing with your long term disability insurance company and help you recognize when you are being treated unfairly.
Below are some basic factors you should be aware of prior to starting the claims process.
Do You Have a Private Disability Insurance Plan?
Disability insurance purchased from a private insurer — either directly or through your employer — should not be confused with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI is a Federal program that covers disabled individuals.
Private disability insurance is also different from benefits received through Workers’ Compensation, which covers injuries or illnesses related to your job.
Do You Have Short-Term Disability Coverage or Long-Term Disability Coverage?
Short-term policies are designed to replace a portion of your income for temporary disabilities lasting up to six months. Long term disability insurance is a more comprehensive form of coverage, providing benefits for anywhere between five years up to the age of 65.
If you have a long term disability plan that was provided as an employee benefit or purchased as an employment-related group plan, it is probably governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), a federal law regulating most non-governmental employee benefit plans.
The purpose of this law is to ensure that health and disability insurance plans are managed responsibly so that employees receive the benefits they are entitled to.
Do You Have a Qualifying Medical Condition?
Another important factor in your ability to collect payments is whether your injury or illness qualifies for coverage under the terms of your policy.
The list of qualifying medical conditions for long-term disability differs from insurer to insurer, and may include cancer, muscular disorders, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, and certain psychological conditions.
Once you’ve decided to file a claim for disability payments, be sure to follow the claims procedure that is laid out in your insurance policy.
Remember that an insurance policy is a contract between you and the insurance carrier and it states that in exchange for your faithful payment of premiums, the insurer will pay you the benefits outlined in your policy if and when you need them.
Not only should you expect to be able to collect the benefits you’re owed, you should expect that you will be treated with respect and honesty throughout the claims process.
Need More Help in Understanding Your Disability Insurance Policy?
Want more information regarding types of disability insurance? You may choose to request a FREE, no-obligation long term disability denial legal consultation; our case managers are able to address any concerns you have and show you the next steps. Sign up for your FREE case evaluation or call us today.
Why Hire a Long Term Disability Insurance Attorney?
When confronted with the confusing long term disability insurance claims process, many consumers simply forego what may be owed to them because of the time and effort necessary for making the insurance company pay out. Don’t risk losing your appeal on a technicality or by not having the right information available.
Working with a long term disability claims attorney to advise you and handle your claim gives you peace of mind, making the process easier on you during this difficult time.
Why Sokolove Law?
- For more than 40 years, Sokolove Law has helped people just like you get the legal support they need, regardless of race or income.
- Sokolove Law has helped people in all 50 states get the legal support they need to move successfully through our court system. We have helped thousands of people with their long term disability denial appeals.
- We provide a FREE case evaluation and you only pay us if you are successful in your appeal.
