Long-term disability (LTD) insurance can help you financially if you cannot work for a prolonged period because of a qualifying disability. To be eligible for benefits, your disability needs to be one of the conditions that qualify for LTD.  Also, this disability has made you unable to work. If you meet these criteria, speak with a disability attorney to help you navigate the legal process.

Qualifying Medical Condition

 Health conditions that qualify for LTD benefits are not limited to physical illnesses. You may also be eligible for benefits if you suffer from a covered mental illness or a chronic injury that prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity.

In general, LTD benefits start once you have exhausted your short-term disability benefits. The kind of policy and your provider will determine the specific qualifying conditions. The common conditions that qualify for LTD include cancer, COPD, stroke, multiple sclerosis, depression, diabetes, traumatic brain injury, heart disease, and others. Also, some insurance policies offer benefits for some disabilities that result from accidents or workplace injuries. Check with your insurer to determine the conditions your policy covers. 

Eligibility Determination

Typically, insurance companies determine a person’s eligibility for disability benefits by considering some factors. These factors include their age, mental and physical health status, medical history, as well as ability to carry out vital job duties. You need to provide your insurer with proof showing your disability makes you unable to work and meets the disability definition of your policy.

Disability Proof

 First, you must provide medical records to your insurer. These records include medical evidence such as diagnostic tests that can prove the existence of your disability and how it affects your ability to work. The disability claims process can be overwhelming. It could take a few weeks or months to complete it, depending on how serious your condition is. 

Coverage Duration

Typically, a qualifying medical condition is covered for your policy’s life as long as your disability continues. Benefits may be terminated at age 65. But some limitations and exclusions exist. For instance, mental health disabilities may only be covered for two years. Also, policies may not fully cover pre-existing conditions. The right over these matters can get quite detailed. The last thing you want is to accept your provider’s exclusion or limitation determination. Speak with an LTD lawyer, so they can review your insurance policy and verify this on your behalf. An experienced attorney has extensive knowledge of disability insurance laws.