Steps you can take if your long-term disability claim is denied
If you become sick and are no longer able to work, then you may receive disability insurance. A portion of your salary is covered when you are unable to work due to an injury or illness. Your insurance provider may deny your long-term disability claim. Fortunately, you are within your right to contest their decision and file an appeal.
Today we will break down what you should do if your long-term disability claim is denied by your insurance provider.
Why a Disability Claim May Be Denied
A large proportion of claims are denied during the early stages. Applications need to be well developed or they may come under scrutiny during the qualification process. Inadequate medical evidence, for example, may cause your claim to be denied.
Denials/rejections in the past may also be investigated by the insurance provider and may lead to your disability claim being denied once again.
Your income/earnings may also influence the decision of your provider. If you earn more than a certain cut-off amount then your provider may deny your claim. The cut-off amount will vary from provider to provider.
It is also essential that you cooperate with your insurance provider. You must attend all of your scheduled medical tests and exams. You must also provide them with all of the requested documentation.
Remain in contact with your agent and cooperate with them through every step in order to increase your chances of success. There are many reasons for the denial of a disability claim. Speaking to a lawyer that specializes in such matters may help you receive the justice that you need and deserve.
Advantages and Risks Associated With Disability Insurance
Private disability insurance may be expensive but it could pay dividends in the future. It serves as a preventive measure in the event that you become ill or injured. You will be provided with a steady source of income if you become ill which may provide you with peace of mind.
However, if you are insured then your provider may still deny you if you become disabled. You may not have any money to rely on while you are unable to function due to your newfound disability.
Get Legal Advice
A disability insurance attorney may be able to help you if your disability insurance claim is rejected by your insurance provider. A good lawyer will keep you informed throughout the entire process without compromise.
You should select an attorney you are comfortable with and who has a proven track record of success. Your claim defense will be more likely to be solid and successful if you seek out the services of a disability insurance attorney sooner rather than later.
Other Factors to Consider When a Disability Claim is Denied
As soon as you receive the denial letter you should request a copy of your insurance policy and claim file in writing. You also need to find out the deadline for filing an appeal. The deadline will depend on the law governing your claim, as well as the precise language in your policy.
You will also need to determine the restrictions that have been placed on your insurance policy. Some medical conditions may not be covered at all, or you may be able to qualify for only limited coverage.
For example, if you are forced to stop working due to chronic anxiety, stress or depression then you may only qualify for 12 months of benefits.
You will also need to collect as much evidence as you can. All relevant medical documents and reports should be collected as soon as possible.
Once a decision has been made on your final appeal your claim will be closed for good, so any relevant supporting documents should be collected beforehand. You will also need to write an appeal letter. In your appeal letter, you will need to demonstrate how the evidence proves that you are in fact disabled (as defined by your insurance policy).
Next, you will need to submit your administrative appeal using a delivery method that is easily trackable. It is also essential that you carefully monitor the status of your claim.
Never Give Up
Insurance providers often reject long-term injury requests for a wide array of reasons. Lack of evidence is often cited as a reason for rejecting a claim. In some cases, it may be due to a blunder at your end or at theirs.
Whatever the reason may be, it is important to speak to a legal professional in order to learn what your next steps should be. They will explain the situation and your legal options in layman’s terms and will help you take the necessary steps in order to receive the benefits that you need.
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