Long-term disability claims are insurance benefits that allow you to receive money in the event that you can’t work on your job due to medical reasons. Of course, these benefits aren’t exactly easy to claim as there is a lot of paperwork to do. If this is your first time filing for an LTD claim, here are a few tips to take note of:
Definition of Disability
This is one of the most important things to take note of –the definition of disability. What constitutes disability, as per the definition of insurers?
The most basic definition of disability is being unable to perform any job because of a long-term injury or condition after a time period of 24 months (this may differ per insurer). If you have an LTD lawyer at your disposal, they can help you further define disability so that you can know your rights.
Limitations of an LTD Claim
While the definition allows you to file a claim as long as you can’t work at any job after 24 months, there are a few limitations in LTD policies. This ensures that applicants don’t abuse it.
First, the policy won’t cover the conditions wherein the worker has already been receiving treatment before the coverage is effective. This means that if you have the condition prior, the policy won’t cover it. There are exceptions to the rule though, so you must do your own due diligence. Also, you must check specifically what is covered by the policy as not all conditions (e.g. drug addiction, attempted suicide) are covered.
File Social Security Disability
The first thing to do when you file for an LTD claim is to file for Social Security disability. This allows the LTD insurer to subtract the SSD amount from your LTD amount. It also helps if you have a Social Security lawyer to help you with the technical stuff.
Provide Medical Evidence
LTD insurers will require you to provide medical evidence of your condition or injury. With this, you must work together with your doctor to provide as much evidence as you can. Medical records, MRI’s, X-rays, medical reports, blood test results, and other things are important when you file for a claim. Also, get your doctor to make a full report about your medical history.
Wait for Approval
When you’ve filed all the documents and requirements, the last thing to do is wait for the approval. If everything is complete, your application will most likely be approved. Should it be denied, you can file for an administrative appeal.
If it reaches this level, you must provide more medical evidence. This is another part where your LTD lawyer will be very helpful. If it is still denied at that level, you may take your case to the Federal Court and file an appeal.
Conclusion
While LTD benefits are very helpful when you can’t work due to a sickness or injury, it isn’t easy to apply for them. This is why it’s important that you have the know-how and a lawyer to help you out.
These tips will definitely be useful once you start filing. The more you know your rights, the faster you can get your application approved.