Anne Bucher  |  July 21, 2020

Category: Legal News

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Man asking what to do regarding information on what to do if your long-term disability claim was denied

Canadians count on their long-term disability insurance to provide a financial safety net in the event they become injured, sick or otherwise unable to work for a long period of time. Unfortunately, it is relatively common for an LTD claim to be denied. If you had your long-term disability denied, it is important to understand your rights and options.

Long Term Disability Insurance Overview

What is long-term disability, anyway? The definition of LTD depends on the specific policy. Generally, LTD is classified as a disability that renders a person unable to work. However, some policies may only pay an LTD claim if a person has a total disability that makes them unable to work at any job while others may pay an LTD claim if the disability prevents a person from doing their original job, but they could potentially be able to work at a different job.

Long-term disability insurance is meant to provide financial support to a policyholder who is unable to work for an extended period of time due to an injury, illness or other type of disability. If an LTD claim is approved, the insurance company will generally pay out a certain percentage of the policyholder’s typical income each month.

Why Was Your Long-Term Disability Denied?

There are many reasons why a long-term disability claim may be denied. Your insurance company should send you a written letter to let you know the reasons behind the long-term disability denial. In some cases, the wording used in an LTD policy may be vague or confusing in order to convince people that their disability may not deserve coverage. However, sometimes insurers simply deny legitimate long-term disability claims in order to protect their profits.

What Can You Do if Your Claim Was Denied?

If your LTD claim was denied, you have several important rights. You have the right to view your LTD policy, your medical information, and your complete LTD claim file from your insurance company. This information will help you understand the reasons behind your long-term disability denial and determine what information you need to put together a successful LTD claim.

You also have the right to choose which doctor you see. Some insurance companies may try to push you to see a certain physician, specialist or physical therapist. If you are uncomfortable with any of your medical providers, you can consider switching providers or seek a second opinion. The medical professionals who treat you play an important role in building a successful case.

If your long-term disability claim was denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. A long-term disability denial attorney can help you review your policy and your medical documentation to put together a strong appeal and maximize your chance of success.

How to File a Long-Term Disability Insurance Appeal

There are several important steps to take when you appeal your long-term disability denial. Most importantly, you need to identify the deadline for appeal. If you miss this deadline, you risk losing your chance to have your LTD claim reviewed.cropped shot of paperwork regarding what to do if your long-term disability insurance claim was denied

You’ll also need to gather certain documentation to put together your appeal. These documents may include the LTD denial letter, a copy of your group insurance booklet, a copy of your relevant medical records, and a copy of the insurance company’s claim file (if your LTD claim is more than six months old).

When you review these documents, you’ll need to identify potential gaps or weaknesses in your record that may have contributed to the denial of your LTD claim. You may need to clarify your diagnosis or explain how your condition prevents you from doing your job. You may have to provide additional documentation about your job requirements or physical demands or obtain additional medical evidence.

Once you have gathered these documents and records, it is time to send an appeal letter with supporting documentation. A long-term disability denial lawyer can help you collect all of the documentation and other evidence you need to make a strong case for your LTD claim.

While you’re awaiting the outcome of your long-term disability appeal, find out if you qualify for other benefits, such as employment insurance sickness benefits or creditor disability benefits on your credit cards or bank loans.

What are Your Rights When Filing an Appeal?

Although it can be nerve-wracking to have your long-term disability denied, it is important to remember that you have certain rights. The insurance company will notify your employer that you don’t qualify for long-term disability coverage and that you are able to work. Your employer may then ask you when you plan to return to work. If you are planning to file a long-term disability appeal, you need to notify your employer in writing that you will appeal the decision.

Sometimes an insurance company will attempt to get policyholders to settle for reduced or denied LTD benefits. If you sign these documents, part of your insurance policy could be nullified. It is important to remember that you have the right not to sign these documents. You also don’t need to volunteer any information about your injury or illness. That information should be provided by the medical professionals who are treating your condition. Some insurance companies will try to use claimants’ words against them in order to deny their claims or reduce their benefits.

You also have the right to be represented by a long-term disability denial attorney, who will be knowledgeable about the tactics many insurance companies use to deny an LTD claim. A lawyer will explain your rights and put together a strong case to maximize the chance of a successful appeal. If it is necessary to take your long-term disability appeal to court, a lawyer will defend your rights and fight for you to get the benefits you deserve.

Should You Hire a Long-Term Disability Denial Attorney?

If your LTD claim was denied, it is a good idea to meet with a long-term disability denial attorney. Many lawyers offer free legal consultations. They can review your LTD policy, medical records and other records and help you understand your rights. If you decide to hire a long-term disability denial attorney, they can help you gather any other documentation and evidence that you need to boost the chances that your LTD claim will be approved.

Fill Out the Form to Get Help with Your LTD Insurance Claim 

If your long-term disability insurance claim was denied, legal help is available. Obtaining the assistance of a lawyer will increase the chances of success. See if you qualify by filling out the form on this page or clicking the link below.

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Get Help With Your Long-Term Disability Insurance Denial

If you qualify, an attorney will contact you to discuss the details of your potential case at no charge to you.

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Please note: Top Class Actions is not a settlement administrator or law firm. Top Class Actions is a legal news source that reports on class action lawsuits, class action settlements, drug injury lawsuits and product liability lawsuits. Top Class Actions does not process claims and we cannot advise you on the status of any class action settlement claim. You must contact the settlement administrator or your attorney for any updates regarding your claim status, claim form or questions about when payments are expected to be mailed out.