Is your Long Term Disability claim denied?
First things first – Submitting your long term disability claim can be a little overwhelming and stressful. Here are 5 tips that can help you:
1. Ask your employer for the Long Term Disability Application package
The package includes forms that you must fill out as to why you can’t work. It will include forms for your doctor and your employer to complete. You should request this package and get the forms filled out as soon as possible.
2. Make an appointment with your doctor
Your treating doctor will provide written medical opinions regarding your ability to perform the essential duties of your job.
3. Submit the paperwork on time
First of all, read your policy carefully to learn about waiting periods and qualifying periods and respect the deadlines.
My claim was denied. What do I do?
If your claim was denied, the reason may be simple and easy to fix so don’t worry just yet. There are a few reasons that can explain this denial:
Could be a clerical error…
First, read the letter you received from the insurance company and find out why they have denied your claim. Their reason may be something as simple as a clerical error, or they may be missing a key piece of paperwork. In many cases they require a form to be filled out by your doctor before making a decision. If that’s the case, you should immediately make arrangements with your doctor and make sure the insurance company has all the forms it needs to process your claim.
Could be an issue with your employer…
The insurance company may also have refused your benefits due to an issue with your employer. In that case you should contact your employer immediately because the employer is often able to assist you in getting the insurance company to fairly process your claim.
Claim is still denied…
If you have submitted all proper paperwork and your doctor supports your claim, but the insurance company still refuses your claim, you have two remaining courses of action:
1. Doing an internal appeal with the insurance company
2. Taking legal action (which generally involves suing the insurance company to obtain your benefits). In our experience, the insurance internal appear is usually a waste of time. You should seek legal assistance when you are initially denied benefits.
If you think you have missed a deadline, you should meet with a lawyer as soon as possible. There may be ways to get around a missed deadline or to argue that the deadline should be extended.
CLG Injury Law offers a free consultation where you can discuss your case with a lawyer and receive information about your application, your insurance policy and what to do if your claim was denied. The consultation is confidential and there is no obligation. Contact us today at 1-844-CANTINI.
