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    Carrollton Long Term Disability Claims

    Suffering a long-term disability can be devastating – especially when the person who has suffered the disability is the family’s primary income provider. Those fortunate enough to have long-term disability insurance generally feel that they are covered and that the policy’s proceeds will be there for them when needed. Sadly, that is not always the case.

    Many long-term disability insurance claims are denied due to a lack of information, missing a filing deadline (even if by one day), or sometimes for reasons which do not make sense. Insurance companies have a duty to pay long-term disability insurance benefits when all the terms and conditions of the policy have been met. If you want to know more about Carrollton long-term disability claims, or need help getting the process started, consult a seasoned long-term disability claims attorney that can help.

    Common Disabilities Covered

    Long-term disability policies often define what types of disabilities are covered. However, some of the most common disabilities include:

    • Arthritis
    • Back injuries
    • Depression / bipolar disorders / anxiety disorders
    • Diabetes
    • Hearing impairments
    • Liver disease
    • HIV / Aids
    • Heart disease
    • Head injuries
    • Leukemia
    • Lung disease
    • Lupus
    • Multiple sclerosis
    • Neck injuries
    • Paralysis
    • Spinal cord injuries
    • Stroke
    • Vision impairments

    Although the above list is seemingly long, it only scratches the surface. In fact, the crucial element in most Carrollton long-term disability insurance claims involves a doctor’s medical opinion of someone’s condition and whether their disability is serious enough to be considered “long-term.”

    Filing a Claim

    Filing a Carrollton long-term disability claim generally involves submitting an application to an insurance company (if the policy is private), to an employer’s human resources department (if the policy is through an employer), or simply by completing it online if allowed.

    Long-term disability insurance benefit applications can be tedious and require a great deal of personal information from the applicant, their employer, and medical professionals involved with the person’s treatment.

    Although tedious, it is very important to make sure that the insurance company receives everything requested in the application. Failure to provide even the most minor piece of information can result in an immediate claim denial.

    Appealing a Rejected Long-Term Disability Claim

    Anyone who has been denied valid long-term disability benefits should not give up. Sadly, many insurance companies count on that. However, there are always options to appealing a Carrollton long-term disability claim. While it is wise to deal with insurance company claims adjusters to revise an application already submitted, it is important to know when to seek the assistance of a long-term disability lawyer who can act on the individual’s behalf.

    Going Beyond the Appeal Process

    While many long-term disability claim denials can be reversed by going through the usual claims adjuster channels, many cannot. In those situations, applicants may be able to file a bad faith insurance claim against an insurance company who has breached its duty to act in good faith and treat its policyholders fairly. While this is only allowed in situations involving private long-term disability policies, those with employer-based policies also have options.

    Employer-based long-term disability policies are generally governed by ERISA (the Employee Retirement Income Security Act) and while they do not allow for bad faith insurance damages, appeals can often be reversed in whatever administrative process provided for in the policy. Applicants should make sure to address every item the insurance company has identified as problematic beforehand.

    Appeals covered under ERISA are generally handled through an administrative appeal with the insurance company, they are subject to review by a federal judge. If you want to know more about Carrollton long-term disability claims, or you wish to challenge the denial of a claim, get in touch with a skilled attorney.