Long Term Disability Lawyers’ Advice on Filing your Long Term Disability Claim
When you are injured and can’t work, it can be an extremely difficult time in your life. Dealing with medical and financial issues are challenging enough, without the added pressure of handling a claim for long-term disability. Consulting with, or hiring a long-term disability lawyer can ease this burden significantly helping to ensure that you receive the financial support you need to care for yourself and your family. The process of filing a claim can seem overwhelming in the beginning. There are certain steps you can take when you start to consider filing a claim that will help increase your chances of a successful claim. In the event you are denied, an attorney who specializes in long-term disability claims can help you appeal this decision, and receive the support you require.
- Submit Claim Promptly
There is usually a limited period of time to file your claim for long-term disability. It is important that you file for disability right away to have the best chance of getting your claim processed quickly. You may think that your condition might improve with time, and therefore delay the process of initiating a claim. However, if you believe that there is a chance you may need some access to disability benefits, you should immediately begin the process. You can always stop the process later if you are able to return to work. - Review your Policy
It is important to understand that your long-term disability policy may have a series of deadlines. They could be deadlines for your initial claim, your medical records, and appeals that you need to file in the event your claim is denied. You should also pay attention to the deadlines that your insurance company is required to meet in case they don’t comply with these deadlines. Make sure you have a copy of your policy to show your long-term disability lawyer in the event you choose to retain one. - Log All Communication
Keeping a log of all telephone, mail, and email communication enables your long-term disability lawyer quickly see the timeline of the claim process. A log also allows you to keep an accurate accounting of all statements the insurance company makes throughout the process. Make sure that all notes you make are as detailed as possible, and kept together with your log and correspondence between the insurance company and yourself. - Organize and Collect Medical Records
Typically, you will have many medical records when you initially file the claim. However, there will be additional medical records that are generated later, as well as outside records found by specialists, therapists, and other medical personnel. Do your best to obtain and keep track of all of these records. Bring copies of the medical records you have gathered, along with a list of other records you have not yet obtained, to the initial consultation with your attorney. Your long-term disability lawyer will be able to use these documents in the event an appeal becomes necessary. - What if your Claim is Denied?
There are many claims that are denied for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons are minor, but many require legal assistance if you wish to appeal. Appealing your claim denial can often be simply another part of the process meaning that it may take more time and effort to obtain approval. This is where hiring a long-term disability lawyer becomes so important. If you are unable to work because of a disability and feel that you are entitled to this benefit under your policy, don’t be afraid to take a stand by seeking legal assistance.
Why Should I Hire a Long Term Disability Lawyer?
Many times insurance companies know that subscribers are unfamiliar with their policy as well as the process of obtaining their disability payments. This allows them to take advantage of subscribers by summarily denying your claim. Bringing in a long-term disability lawyer can have an enormous positive impact on your appeal as they use their knowledge and experience to level the playing field. The rules for receiving long-term disability benefits are complicated, and using an attorney will help increase the chances that your claim will be successful. Keep in mind that you will need to have an appeal letter drafted fairly quickly. Obtaining documentation after a denial is important for attorneys as they draft this letter.
Remember that insurance companies must provide a written explanation for your denial, your options for appeal, and any applicable deadlines for filing this appeal. When you are issued this statement, bring a copy to your attorney as these three pieces of information are vital to proceeding to the next step in the process.
Your lawyer can also help you obtain a copy of your administrative record. This record can contain photos, videos, and evaluations. There may also be independent medical exam reports, and other information the insurance company used as a basis for denying your claim. This will also aid your attorney in protecting your rights.
Why Retain Gore & Kuperman as your Long Term Disability Lawyers?
Having a long-term disability insurance lawyer who is compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced can mean the difference between a successful appeal and a continued denial of benefits. Gore & Kuperman bring all of these traits to their representation of long-term disability clients. Contact our firm today to learn more about the process of filing and appealing long-term disability claims. Our experienced attorneys can make this process much easier, allowing you to focus on your health and rest easy knowing that you are well-represented.