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    Columbus Long-Term Disability Claims Denial

    There are any number of reasons why someone may face Columbus long-term disability claims denial. Just because a claim is denied does not mean that the applicant will never receive benefits. This guide is intended to let people know the reasons for why a claim may be denied, as well as steps that people can take to lessen the chances of a denial. Distinguished long-term disability attorneys can work with people to both lessen the chances of an initial denial and to file appeals if a denial does occur.

    Claims Process

    Long-term disability (LTD) insurance plans in Columbus are designed to provide supplemental income to people who are no longer able to work. It does not matter why the accident happens, or if it occurs while a person is at work, the employee only needs to have been paying premiums towards the program. Once the injury or illness occurs, the worker needs to file an application with their insurance group.

    All of the applications are different, but generally, they must include the date that the conditions became so serious that a person can no longer work and all medical evidence to support this assertion. Any potential issues should be reviewed with an attorney who can help someone try avoiding Columbus long-term disability claims denials.

    Medical Denials

    Simply having a diagnosis is not enough; all applicants should have months’ worth of medical evidence to support their claims.

    This needs to include:

    • Medical Records
    • Medication Lists
    • X-Rays
    • MRIs
    • Therapy Notes
    • Doctor’s Notes

    What is the Impact of Having a Doctor’s Note?

    Any assertion that a person cannot work must be supported by doctor’s notes. A lack of this evidence is the number one reason for insurance companies to issue denials. Other reasons include that the condition was a factor in a person’s life prior to buying into the insurance program, the application itself contained inaccurate or incomplete information, and the applicant was found to be falsifying information.

    This last option is especially insidious as many insurance companies employ people to observe and even follow the applicants to see if they are truly as infirm as they claim to be. If an applicant is seen to be doing yard work but claims that their back pain prevents them from working in a warehouse, this person can expect a Columbus long-term disability claims denial.

    What Happens After a Denial?

    Many Columbus long-term disability claims denials occur upon first being considered by the insurance company. After that, all applicants have the right to appeal the claim within the insurance company itself. Unfortunately, ERISA laws prevent claimants from filing suit directly in US District Court before the appeal procedures are exhausted in the insurance company. This process can take up to a year on its own. Only after an appeal is denied by the insurance company can a suit be filed in Federal Court.

    Disability attorneys work to represent the interests of clients from their initial application through a potential Federal Court filing. We assist in gathering the necessary documentation and providing a thorough and persuasive application from the onset of the claim. If this claim is denied, we work to file the necessary internal appeal both quickly and accurately. If a Federal Court suit is required, we take the lead in this process as well.

    Obtaining long-term disability benefits in Columbus can be needlessly complex and time-consuming. Our firm works to increase the chances of applicants by ensuring an accurate and persuasive application.