Long-Term Disability Benefits Denied or Terminated?
Have you been denied Long-Term Disability benefits? Whether you were denied after applying or after years of receiving benefits, it is absolutely essential that you understand your rights and the options available to you.
Long-Term Disability insurance claims can be complicated. An experienced attorney can evaluate the reasons for a denial or termination, determine whether the insurance company followed the terms of the policy and applicable law, and help you pursue the benefits you may be entitled to receive.
Own Occupation vs. Any Occupation
Many long-term disability policies provide benefits under an “own occupation” definition at first, but later require you to meet a stricter “any occupation” definition. Having your benefits terminated because the insurance company says you can work in another occupation is incredibly common, but that decision can be overturned by a skilled attorney with a strong appeal.
Exhausted Appeals and ERISA
If you are denied benefits, whether upon application or after years of receiving benefits, you must exhaust your administrative remedies under the policy.
However, even if you exhaust those remedies, you still have options! ERISA, a federal law which governs most plans, allows you to bring a claim in federal court.
Understanding Long-Term Disability Claims
Why Long-Term Disability Claims are Complicated
Long-Term Disability insurance claims can become complicated when an insurance company denies a claim, terminates benefits, or changes its position about whether you remain disabled under the terms of the policy. The reasons for a denial or termination matter, as do the specific definitions and requirements contained in the policy.
An experienced disability attorney can review the insurance company’s decision, the policy language, and the evidence supporting your claim to determine what options may be available and how to give you the best chance of turning the tables on the insurance company.