Translate this Page
Subscribe to our Newsletter
FREE Disability Downloads
Read our white papers on Social Security Disability:No Retirement Necessary: Social Security Disability Benefits
Disability Insurance Plans: What You Need to Know
Call our offices for a FREE CONSULTATION!
Recent Updates:
Frequently Asked Questions about Disability Insurance
Q: How can I get disability insurance?
A: You can get disability insurance through a personal policy or through a group plan at your workplace. Depending on your needs, you can configure a plan to your price range and preferences.
Q: How long does it take to get benefits from a disability insurance carrier?
A: Each policy has a waiting period for those insured to claim benefits. For example, you may have to wait 90 days from the day you start paying premiums to receive benefits if you become disabled. Read your specific policy to know how long your waiting period is.
Q: What do I need in order to file a claim?
A: You'll need proof of your disability in order to file a successful disability claim. This means that doctor's records, treatment verification, prescriptions, and other medical documentation should be submitted along with your claim form. If your carrier requests or requires more information or paperwork, submit that as soon as you can to begin receiving benefits.
Q: Are employers required to provide disability insurance?
A: No. Employers are not required to provide disability insurance plans for their employees. However, once a plan is established, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) regulates the plans to protect employees from losing the money they've invested.
Q: Can I get Social Security Disability and benefits from my insurance company at the same time?
A: Yes, at least under the Social Security Administration's rules. The SSA allows people receiving disability benefits to also receive benefits from private disability insurance policies. Your disability policy might have a clause that doesn't allow you to collect benefits under both programs, so make sure that you read your policy.
Q: Can I appeal a denied insurance claim?
A: When you disagree with an insurance company's decision on your claim, you can try to negotiate with them. An insurance dispute attorney can help this process be much faster and more effective. There are loopholes and a lot of paperwork and jargon that insurance adjustors use. An attorney knows how to avoid this hassle and get you benefits as soon as possible.
Q: I broke my leg, am out of work, and won't be back to work for about 2 months. Can I file a claim?
A: It depends. If your disability insurance policy states you can claim benefits in this situation, then go ahead an apply. However, a lot of policies require the disability to be long-term, or generally lasting over 6 months.
Q: I heard that some insurance companies consider pregnancy as a disabling condition. Is that true?
A: Some insurance policies pay benefits for women who are out of work due to pregnancy. There might be limits on the amount and length of benefits, so the best advice is to read your policy to know when and how to apply.
The Coye Law Firm's Disability Center is an experienced disability and insurance law firm. If you have any questions during your appeal, call us to schedule a free consultation, where you'll speak with a compassionate and knowledgeable member of our staff.
