The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is a federal law that controls employee benefits, including group long-term disability policies. ERISA provides that you have 180 days from the date you receive an adverse decision (a denial or termination) to file an appeal. Hiring an attorney When you hire an attorney to handle your appeal, […]
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Prudential Disability Claim Denials
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance offers protection against uncertainty. If you become disabled due to an illness or injury, this type of policy will provide monthly payments to help you cover your expenses while you are unable to work. LTD policies are offered by a number of insurers, including the Prudential Insurance Company of America (Prudential). […]
Continue ReadingCigna Disability Claim Denials
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance can be incredibly important — perhaps even more critical than life insurance. LTD benefits offer monthly payments in the event that you are unable to work due to a disability. These payments can provide a financial lifeline in a time of difficulty. Too often, however, insurance companies that offer these policies […]
Continue ReadingLiberty Mutual Long-Term Disability Insurance Claims
The American Association for Justice (formerly the Association of Trial Lawyer of America) has named Liberty Mutual as the tenth worst insurance company in the United States. The report alleged that Liberty Mutual has adopted a policy of denying, delaying and defending claims rather than simply paying policyholders what they are owed. In addition, Liberty […]
Continue Reading24 Month Termination of Long-Term Disability Benefits
A long-term disability (LTD) insurance policy can be a crucial way to protect yourself financially in the event that you are unable to work due to a disability. These types of policies provide a monthly benefit — typically between 50 to 60% of your salary — while you cannot work because of a physical or […]
Continue ReadingDisability Benefits for the Self-Employed
There are many benefits to being self-employed, such as the ability to set your own schedule, being your own boss, and the potential to reap financial rewards for your hard work and innovation. However, working for yourself can also be risky. In many cases, the entire business model rests on your shoulders — which may […]
Continue ReadingLincoln Financial Long-Term Disability Claims
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance is a particular type of policy, offering benefits in the event that you are unable to work for an extended period of time due to a disability. It can offer a financial safety net during a stressful period of time. Yet when a major insurance company, such as Lincoln Financial, unfairly […]
Continue ReadingWhat Role Does a Vocational Expert Play in Disability Benefits?
If you are in the process of applying for disability benefits, you may be a bit confused by the entire system. Like most federal government agencies, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has an overwhelming number of rules, regulations — and acronyms. Understanding more about the system can help you as you go from initial application […]
Continue ReadingERISA Claims and Appeals Process & Procedures
If your employer offers long-term disability benefits, it will typically be covered by a federal law known as ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). ERISA sets minimum standards for benefit plans in the private sector, offering a number of protections for individuals enrolled in these plans. In addition to grievance procedures and appeals processes, ERISA […]
Continue ReadingUnum Disability Claim Denials
Disability insurance can be incredibly important. This type of policy, offered in both short-term and long-term versions, provides benefits in the event that you are unable to work due to an illness or injury. Having disability insurance can remove the burden of financial stress at a time when you should be focusing on your health. […]
Continue ReadingHow Long Do Long-Term Disability Benefits Last?
While many of us would like to believe that we are infallible, the reality is that we are all human. No matter how healthy you may be, there is no guarantee that you will remain that way. In fact, approximately 25% of 20 year olds can expect to be out of work for at least […]
Continue ReadingDo Long-Term Disability Benefits Have to Be Paid Back If I Start Receiving Social Security?
If you become disabled due to an illness or injury, you may look to two different forms of benefits to support you financially while you are unable to work: long-term disability (LTD) insurance and Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). Each type of benefit has an important role to play for people with disabilities. Together, they […]
Continue ReadingWhat Medical Conditions Qualify for Long-Term Disability?
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance coverage is typically offered by your employer as part of a compensation package, although you can also purchase a plan directly from an insurance broker. LTD insurance protects you in the event of total or partial disability based on a qualifying condition through your policy. In short, if you are unable […]
Continue ReadingWhat Is the Difference and Choosing Between Long-Term Disability and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?
Finding yourself partially or totally disabled has devastating effects on your body and mind. Fortunately, there are resources and benefits for people who are unable to work due to an injury or medical condition. The most commonly used benefits are long-term disability insurance and Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). Both programs have their benefits and […]
Continue ReadingCan I Be Fired While on Disability Leave?
If you take leave from your job due to a disability, the last thing that you want to worry about is whether your job will be waiting for you when you return. Yet far too often, individuals who are out on disability leave find themselves in a precarious position when it comes to their employment. […]
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