Disability Claims 101: What You Should Know Before Applying
Disability insurance offers coverage against unforeseen events such as sickness or injury that may affect one’s ability to work. The application and claim process for disability insurance coverage may not be as simple as you might expect, especially in circumstances where one is required to contest denial of claims. Some individuals, even those with valid reasons for claiming disability insurance coverage, have been found to pursue a Hartford Disability Lawsuit.
What Is Disability Insurance?
When a sickness makes it impossible for you to work, disability insurance pays out money. Disability insurance can be classified as either short-term disability insurance (STD) or long-term disability insurance (LTD). LTD is particularly important since it kicks in once the STD benefits have ended.
Before filling out an application form, it is essential to understand the scope of the coverage, its duration, and the meaning of “disability” according to the insurance company.
Claim Evaluation Process Overview
During the claim process, your medical records will be reviewed, along with information about your work history and any restrictions on your ability to do that work. Insurance companies, such as The Hartford, might have their own standards when evaluating disability claims, and even doctors evaluate your claim. A denied disability claim is possible despite your having valid documents supporting your disability.
These may include not having enough proof of your medical disability, failing to file a claim in time, or your condition not being classified as a disability under the terms of your policy.
Understand the Appeal Process Prior to Filing
In most cases, disability insurance plans, especially ERISA-governed ones, mandate that you go through the internal appeals process prior to filing any legal claims. ERISA plans have deadlines for filing appeals, which are normally quite stringent—only 180 days following the date of denial to begin filing an appeal. Failure to abide by the timeline will likely render you ineligible for benefit recovery.
Examining your denial letter is essential. The letter provides information as to why your claim was denied, as well as the evidence required to support your case. Collaboration with physicians and disability lawyers during this process can make all the difference.
When Filing a Hartford Disability Lawsuit Could Be Required
If your appeal fails, a Hartford Disability Lawsuit could be the next thing on your plate. That’s particularly true with regards to long-term disability insurance. In the majority of these cases, issues crop up after a claimant feels that their insurer unreasonably denied or ended their benefits.
Some recent claims include wrongful denials where, after winning in the courts, Hartford was compelled to provide long-term disability benefits as well as cover their legal fees. Furthermore, in some cases, claimants file a lawsuit based on the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) because Hartford would not pay out despite the claim being approved by the Social Security Administration.
There can be various things claimed for in these lawsuits – however, there are many regulations surrounding these lawsuits and they are considered under federal laws.
How to Make Your Disability Case Stronger
Remember these pointers both before and after filing for disability (particularly when dealing with Hartford and other insurance companies):
Document all details: Keep comprehensive records and objective proof provided by your doctors.
Be timely: You will lose your case if you miss appeal or application deadlines.
Seek professional guidance: Disability lawyers and professionals can assist in preventing major errors in key areas.
Know your policy: Terms such as own occupation versus “any occupation” may make a significant difference in your claim.
Common Mistakes That Claimants Make
Most claimants commit certain mistakes that unintentionally undermine their case:
Failing to submit necessary medical records.
Lack of comprehension of what insurance companies define as disabilities.
Appealing their claims without any help from attorneys.
Ignoring critical ERISA statutory limitation periods.
Committing fewer mistakes gives you a higher chance of winning your case without having to resort to a lawsuit.
Conclusion
The disability claim process can often be frustrating and complicated, particularly when your claim is denied by an important insurance company such as Hartford. It is essential to know what to expect prior to making your claim application, understand how your claim is assessed, and prepare yourself at each step along the way. In situations where litigation is necessary, a Hartford Disability Lawsuit could very well be a necessity in order to receive the money you have rightfully earned.
