Five Common Reasons for Being Denied Long Term Disability Benefits

Long term disability (LTD) benefits available through your employer help to protect you in the event that accidental injuries, illnesses, or chronic health conditions make you unable to continue working. These benefits provide a lifeline in terms of ensuring you and your family have what you need. Unfortunately, it can come as a shock when filing a claim for LTD benefits to receive notice that your claim is denied. The following are five common reasons insurers are likely to cite: 

1. You are ineligible for coverage.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 40% of all workers are entitled to long term benefits through employer-sponsored plans. However, just because these benefits are offered, it does not automatically mean you are eligible. There are often additional requirements, such as holding certain types of positions or being employed for a certain period of time before coverage begins. 

2. Your condition is not covered.

In addition to being ineligible for coverage, suffering from an excluded condition is one of the most common reasons for long term disability claims denials. To protect yourself, review the terms of your policy once you receive a diagnosis. The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 requires your employer to provide free copies of these documents at your request.  

3. You failed to submit the appropriate forms.

There are numerous, often complex forms that must be filled out when filing for LTD benefits. Failing to submit these forms or not completing them within designated time frames can result in an automatic denial of your benefits. 

4. Your medical provider failed to submit the appropriate medical records.

Medical conditions must be thoroughly documented in order to be eligible for long term disability payments. Even if you saw your doctor regularly and underwent all their suggested testing and treatment, a simple error on their part in not submitting all the appropriate records could result in denial of your disability claim. 

5. Administrative or clerical errors were made.

Even if you have a covered condition, follow all the required steps, and are thorough in completing the required forms, your long term disability claim could still be denied. In some cases, clerical errors on the part of your employer or the insurer may be to blame. 

Get the Help You Need From Our Chicago Long Term Disability Attorney

At Bartolic Law, we can guide you through the process of filing a long term disability claim. Get the trusted legal guidance you need to get your benefits approved and to begin receiving payments in the quickest amount of time possible. To request a consultation, contact our Chicago long term disability attorney today.