The sudden and unexpected onset of an injury or illness can leave you unable to work for a significant period of time. When that happens, you can be left feeling stranded, unable to acquire the financial resources needed to make ends meet. While that can be stressful to navigate at a time when you’re focusing on reclaiming your health, there may be concrete ways to protect your interests and your well-being. One of them is to rely on long-term disability benefits.
While workers’ compensation benefits can help cover some of your lost wages when you’re hurt or suffer an illness related to your job duties, disability benefits can kick in regardless of how your condition develops. Long-term disability, then, takes over after short-term disability benefits dry up. But what do these benefits entail?
What to know about long-term disability benefits
The nature and extent of your long-term disability benefits will depend on several factors. While a long-term disability policy will help offset your lost wages, the specific amount you receive will depend on what type of policy you have and how much coverage you acquire. While most policies will reimburse you for 50% to 70% of your income, you can purchase additional coverage that protects more of your income. It’s also important to note that the compensable rate is based on your income at the time you purchase your policy. So, as time goes on and your income increases, you should be sure to revisit your long-term disability insurance policy to see if you need to purchase additional coverage.
The length of your long-term disability benefits can vary, too. Depending on the type of coverage you acquire, your benefits could last anywhere from two years up until you reach the age of 65. It oftentimes depends on how long your disability lasts. So, if you’re careful with addressing your potential long-term disability needs, you should be able to provide yourself with ample protection for a significant period of time.
Will your long-term disability claim be denied?
There’s always a possibility that it will be. Remember, insurance companies are in the business of making money, so they’ll be looking for any justification to deny paying out your claim. A lack of medical evidence is often a key consideration in a claim denial, so you’ll want to ensure that you’re thorough in visiting the doctor, following their recommendations, obtaining their formal opinion and gathering your medical records.
There are other justifications the insurance company may give for denying your claim. So, be sure to review your denial letter so that you understand their perspective. This will shape your next steps.
What to do if your long-term disability claim has been denied
If your claim has been subjected to denial, then you need to consider your next steps. You can appeal the insurance company’s decision, which gives you another shot at acquiring the benefits you need and deserve. As you navigate your appeal, the insurance company may require you to visit an independent doctor. While you’ll need to comply with this request, you can adequately prepare for this visit by being ready to thoroughly discuss your condition and articulate how it negatively impacts your ability to live your life and work.
Do you need help with your long-term disability claim?
Our experienced attorneys understand the stress and challenges you are going through if your claim has been denied. You can rely on us to clearly explain your options. To speak with us, call 262-373-9786 today.
