Long-term disability insurance is designed to provide financial support to individuals who become unable to work due to injury, illness, or other medical conditions. However, the process of filing a claim and obtaining benefits can be complex and time-consuming. Many claims are denied initially, leaving claimants feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their options. A long term disability lawyer plays a crucial role in advocating for claimants’ rights during this challenging time.
Long-term disability insurance:
Before delving into the role of a long-term disability attorney, it is vital to understand what long-term disability insurance entails. This type of policy provides income replacement benefits if an individual becomes disabled and cannot perform the duties of their occupation or any other job for an extended period, typically more than six months. Benefits usually amount to around 60% to 70% of the insured person’s pre-disability earnings. While some employers offer group policies as part of their employee benefit packages, others may purchase individual policies directly from insurance companies.
Understanding the application process:
Applying for long-term disability benefits involves submitting extensive documentation, including medical records, employment history, and detailed descriptions of daily activities. An experienced long-term disability attorney can help claimants understand this often confusing and overwhelming application process by ensuring all necessary paperwork is complete, accurate, and submitted within required deadlines. By working closely with clients, attorneys gain a thorough understanding of each case, enabling them to present compelling arguments tailored to meet specific policy requirements.
Appealing denied claims:
Unfortunately, many valid long-term disability claims are initially denied by insurance companies seeking to minimize payouts. When faced with a denial, claimants need not give up hope; instead, they should consider consulting a long-term disability attorney. Attorneys specializing in this area have extensive knowledge of the appeals process and can guide clients through each step, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome. They review initial decisions, identify errors or inconsistencies, gather additional evidence, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and represent clients at appeal hearings when needed.
Negotiating lump sum settlements:
In some cases, rather than receiving monthly payments over an extended period, claimants may prefer a lump sum settlement. Negotiating such agreements requires skillful negotiation tactics and meticulous attention to detail. A seasoned long-term disability attorney understands how to assess the value of future benefits while taking into account factors like tax implications, offsets, and ongoing medical expenses. Armed with this information, attorneys engage in strategic discussions with insurance carriers to secure favorable lump sum offers on behalf of their clients.
