Disability Insurance Claim Denied? What Can You Do Next?
If you've been injured and had your disability insurance claim denied, you may be wondering what to do next.
Being denied benefits on top of being unable to work may seem like the end of the road, but it may not be. In many cases, there are still options for people who have received a disability claim denial, and you may still be able to receive benefits -- it may just take a bit more work.
Here are a few next steps to consider if your private disability insurance claim has been denied:
1. Review Reasons for the Denial.
When it comes to private disability insurance, each claim is different, and may be denied for different reasons. You likely received a comprehensive denial notice that listed the reasons your claim was denied. This notice may also include all of the evidence upon which your denial was based.
There are several common reasons why disability claims are denied, and it is important to know specifically what happened in your case. For example, it's possible your claim was denied because of lack of evidence; further medical documentation, testing, or testimony from friends or coworkers could potentially bolster your claim.
2. Figure Out How to Appeal the Denial.
Under nearly every private disability insurance plan, you can appeal a disability claim denial. It is vital that you understand the appeals process, as it can be complicated.
Some plans allow you to appeal a denial immediately, while others may require you to file other paperwork first. And pay special attention to any deadlines for filing, documents, or meetings: Missing a deadline could nullify your right to appeal.
3. Consult an Experienced Lawyer.
An experienced disability lawyer can help review your claim and figure out the best way to proceed. From keeping track of deadlines to dealing with pesky insurance representatives, an attorney familiar with the disability claims process can more easily guide you through it and answer your questions.
First, though, your prospective lawyer may have some questions for you, so you'll want to gather all of your disability claim documents to help expedite a consultation. At the same time, you may want to prepare some questions of your own so that you and your attorney are on the same page.
Related Resources:
- Want to appeal your disability insurance denial? Have your claim reviewed by an attorney for free. (Consumer Injury)
- Disability Insurers and the Claim Process (FindLaw)
- Same-Sex Spouses Get ERISA Benefits: Labor Department (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
- 5 Things to Look for on a Disability Lawyer's Website (FindLaw's Injured)