If you’ve become ill or injured and are unable to work, you should have peace of mind that you will be able to receive benefits from the disability insurance policy you purchased. Unfortunately, countless deserving claimants are denied their rightful coverage every day. Below we have compiled some of the most common questions we receive regarding disability insurance claims in Los Angeles.
What’s the Difference Between Short- and Long-Term Disability?
When you are receiving short-term disability benefits, you collect those benefits for usually no more than six months, while long-term disability (LTD) benefits can only be received after exhausting paid sick time through your employer and the short-term benefits of your policy. Usually, LTD benefits can be collected until you are able to go back to work—anywhere from two years until retirement.
What Are Some Signs My Claim Was Unfairly Denied?
Your claim may have been unfairly denied if there was no valid reason given for your denial, if you provided necessary documentation of your injuries with the support of your physician, the insurer claims you failed to disclose a pre-existing condition when you submitted a complete and accurate medical history, or the insurer falsely says your disability isn’t covered.
Can I Work and Collect Disability?
Generally speaking, no. It will depend on the specifics of your policy, but most providers include stipulations that state that, if you are able to work a job other than the one you were working when you were injured or became ill, your illness or injury does not warrant the collection of disability benefits.
What’s Not Covered by Disability?
The specific conditions that won’t be covered by your disability insurance should be explicitly noted in your policy. Some policies don’t cover conditions like pregnancy, bariatric surgery, or chronic pain conditions, while other do. Pre-existing conditions that were undisclosed are almost always denied coverage.
Consult with a Los Angeles Disability Lawyer
If you have additional questions about your claim, you can schedule a consultation with an experienced Los Angeles disability lawyer at Haffner Law by filling out the form below or calling 1-844-HAFFNER (423-3637).
