Tips for Disclosing a Disability to Your Employer

Are you preparing to claim disability benefits? As part of your duties as a beneficiary of an Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) policy, you will need to disclose your medical condition to your employer. Doing so can be stressful and intimidating. A proper, timely disclosure can put you in a better position to get your full and fair benefits. In this article, our Illinois long-term disability lawyer highlights four tips for disclosing a disability to your employer. 

• Be Proactive: Do Not Wait Too Long to Disclose

Timely disclosure is a must. It is essential that you inform your employer about your disability as soon as possible. By taking a proactive approach, you will allow your employer to understand your situation better and adjust accordingly. Further, you will be in a better spot to recover disability benefits. Delaying disclosure might complicate the claims process. 

• Know Your Right to Share Medical Records On a Strictly Need-to-Know Basis

While you will be obliged to disclose your disability to file for benefits, you should know that your medical history is still private. You have the right to share your records on a strictly need-to-know basis. In other words, you only need to disclose certain types of information. You do not have to open up your full medical file to your company or organization. 

• Get a Disclosure Down in Writing (an Attorney Can Help)

Having a written record of your disclosure is invaluable. It offers legal protection and ensures clear communication of your condition to your employer. Be ready to consult with a Chicago attorney who has extensive experience with long-term disability claims. Your lawyer can guide you in documenting your condition appropriately, ensuring all necessary details are considered. 

• Ask for All Necessary Claims Forms When Disclosing Your Condition

You will need the proper claims forms to apply for long-term disability benefits. When disclosing your disability, it is a best practice to make sure that you request all the relevant claims forms. Doing so will help you understand what information you need to provide and ensure you submit a complete and accurate claim. It is a proactive step that can prevent delays in the claim process.

Set Up a Free Consultation With a Top Chicago Long Term Disability Attorney Today

At Bartolic Law, our Chicago long-term disability lawyer gets results. If you have any questions about disclosing a disability to your employer, our legal team can help. Reach out to us by phone or contact us online to set up your free initial appointment. With a law office in Chicago, we provide long-term disability representation throughout Cook County.