Long-Term Disability Lawyers
Do You Have Long-Term Disability Insurance?
Even though you may not think about it often, you likely have long-term disability insurance. Long-term disability insurance may seem irrelevant until life throws an unexpected curveball your way. This insurance, which can be procured either individually or through your employer, bridges the income gap if you become unable to work owing to an illness, accident, or injury. If you have coverage and face a long-term disability, you may be eligible for benefits.
What Are Long-Term Disability Benefits?
Was Your LTD Claim Denied?
Navigating Your Long-Term Disability Journey
What Are Long-Term Disability Benefits?
Long-term disability (LTD) benefits are designed to support individuals who, owing to a significant medical condition, are unable to work for extended periods of time. These benefits may be in the form of private insurance policies, employer-sponsored disability insurance programs, or governmental disability plans.
LTD benefits provide a portion of the recipient’s lost wages, with the possibility of additional funds to cover the costs of medical treatment and other necessary expenses.
Was Your ltd Claim Denied?
The denial of LTD benefits can be frustrating, given the complex language of insurance policies. At this juncture, you need a long-term disability lawyer with a wealth of experience in managing such cases.
The most common grounds an insurance company may use to deny your claim include:
- Insufficient medical evidence
- Missing physician’s reports or medical records
- Late claim submissions
- Alleged lack of treatment or inadequate follow-up with prescribed treatment
- Your insurer’s belief that your condition doesn’t meet the severity required to be classified as a disability
- Assumption that you could return to work with accommodations or in a different role
- Policy exclusions
- Your insurer’s claim that your disability is owing to a pre-existing condition
- Your condition doesn’t align with the policy’s definition of disability
If you face denial of your LTD benefits, J.J. Conway Law is ready to help. We’re committed to assisting you in taking the right action against your insurance company and securing the benefits you rightly deserve.
If you have been injured or become ill and are unable to work, the first step is to file a claim with your long-term disability insurer. You will be required to provide medical evidence to support your claim, including diagnosis and treatment information from your doctor.
Who Qualifies?
Qualification for long-term disability benefits requires you to have a disabling injury or illness that hampers your ability to perform essential job duties. Our long-term disability law firm works with clients suffering from a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Sudden stroke and heart attack
- Accidental injuries
- Chronic health or medical conditions
- Mental health conditions
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Spinal illness or injury
We collaborate with clients from all professions and occupations. If you’re unsure whether we can assist you, call us or fill out our form and we’ll address your concerns.
Navigating Your Long-Term Disability Journey
Filing a Claim
Having paid for long-term disability insurance coverage for years, it can be disheartening when your insurer declines to pay your claim once you become disabled. The first step is to file a claim with your insurance company, providing medical evidence to support your claim, including diagnosis and treatment information from your doctor.
Once the insurance company reviews your claim, they may offer a settlement that includes monthly payments for income replacement as well as coverage for medical costs related to your injury or illness, depending on your coverage.
In cases where an agreement cannot be reached between you and the insurance company on how much compensation should be paid each month, it may result in a lawsuit against the insurance company under state or federal law.
Was Your Claim Denied?
If your LTD claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process will vary depending on your insurance company, but you will typically be required to submit additional medical evidence to support your claim within six months of the denial. The appeals process can be complicated and time-consuming, which is why it is crucial to have an experienced long-term disability lawyer on your side. Without such professional guidance, your claim could face another denial. Our team at J.J. Conway Law is committed to streamlining the appeals process and positioning you for a favorable outcome.
Should You File a Lawsuit?
If your long-term disability insurance claim has been unjustly denied even after an appeal, you may consider filing a lawsuit or proceeding to arbitration. At this point, it is essential to consult with an experienced long-term disability lawyer. With more than two decades of experience handling complex LTD cases, J.J. Conway Law can help you evaluate your eligibility for benefits and advise on potential lawsuits against your insurance company.
Keep in mind, however, that pursuing a successful long-term disability lawsuit entails:
- Proving that the insurance company acted improperly
- Potentially undergoing a medical examination by a doctor appointed by the insurance company
- Pursuing a comprehensive litigation strategy, with our team working closely with you to win your disability claim
How J.J. Conway Law Can Help You
At J.J. Conway Law, we comprehend the stress and anxiety associated with being denied what you rightfully deserve. We recognize the significance of these benefits to you and your loved ones.
With a track record of helping our clients recover more than $65 million in benefits since 1999, we are confident in our ability to support you through this challenging journey. Our long-term disability lawyers have decades of experience guiding individuals like you back to financial stability following a debilitating injury or illness.
Contact us today by using our online form or by calling 313-961-6525 to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is long-term disability insurance, and do I need a lawyer to file a claim?
Long-term disability insurance provides income replacement if you’re unable to work due to a disabling injury or illness. While you can file a claim independently, having a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving the benefits you’re entitled to, especially if the claim is complex or denied.
How do I know if I qualify for long-term disability benefits?
Qualification typically requires a significant medical condition that prevents you from performing essential job duties. Conditions include serious injuries, chronic illnesses, and mental health disorders. Our long-term disability lawyers can help assess your eligibility based on your specific situation.
What should I do if my long-term disability claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, you should immediately seek legal advice. Our experienced long-term disability lawyers can guide you through the appeals process, helping you gather the necessary medical evidence and build a strong case for approval.
What are the common reasons for the denial of long-term disability claims?
Common reasons include insufficient medical evidence, missing documentation, late submissions, and the insurer’s assessment that your condition isn’t severe enough to qualify as a disability. Our lawyers can help address these issues and strengthen your claim.
How long does the long-term disability claims process take?
The process can vary, but initial claims are typically reviewed within 30 to 90 days. If your claim is denied and you need to appeal, the process can take several months or longer. Working with a lawyer can help expedite the process and ensure all necessary documentation is provided.
Can I still receive long-term disability benefits if I return to work part-time?
It depends on your policy. Some policies allow for partial disability benefits if you’re able to work in a limited capacity. A long-term disability lawyer can review your policy and advise you on your options.
What is ERISA, and how does it affect my long-term disability claim?
ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) is a federal law that governs most employer-sponsored long-term disability plans. It sets strict rules for filing claims and appeals. An ERISA lawyer can help you navigate these regulations and protect your rights.
How does J.J. Conway Law assist clients with long-term disability claims?
At J.J. Conway Law, we offer comprehensive legal support, from filing initial claims to appealing denials. With decades of experience and a proven track record, our team is committed to helping clients secure the benefits they deserve.
What evidence do I need to support my long-term disability claim?
You’ll need detailed medical records, physician reports, and other documentation proving that your condition prevents you from working. At J.J. Conway Law,we will help you gather and present this evidence effectively.
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