No one plans on becoming disabled, but it can happen to anyone anytime. If you get caught up in a situation where you can’t work due to a disability, you may wonder if filing for disability insurance is the right step. There are several elements to look at when making this decision, so continue reading to learn more about them.
Disability insurance can provide much-needed financial relief when you cannot work due to illness or injury. However, before you file a disability insurance claim, you must consider several things. First, it’s necessary to understand the definition of disability and how your policy defines it. Many policies only provide coverage for specific disabilities listed in the policy’s terms and conditions.
The Definition of a Disability
As per the The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a disability is a physical or mental impairment that substantially hampers one or more major life activities of an individual who has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. This explanation includes many impairments, from hearing and vision loss to mobility impairments and chronic health conditions.
While some disabilities are visible, others may not be immediately apparent. However, all disabilities can significantly impact an individual’s ability to participate in daily activities.
How to File a Disability Insurance Claim?
If you are not fit for any livelihood earning job, you may be eligible for disability insurance benefits. Filing an insurance claim for disability can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
To file a disability insurance claim, you’ll need to gather basic information about yourself and your medical condition. This includes your social security number, date of birth, contact information, and the names and contact information of your treating physicians. In case you find this process difficult to complete on your own or face any other challenges, you can avail of the services of a lawyer who deals in disability insurance claim cases.
After gathering all the required paperwork and information, you can begin the disability insurance claim process by contacting your insurance company. The next step is to complete a disability insurance application. This will include questions about your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. Once you’ve submitted your application, the insurance company will review your case and decide whether you’re eligible for benefits.
If approved, you’ll begin receiving benefits based on your level of disability. If you’re not approved, you can appeal the decision by providing additional medical evidence or requesting a hearing before an administrative law judge. It is wise to hire an experienced attorney to handle your case. These experts are well aware of the tactics of the insurance companies and know how to win a claim for their clients.
Factors That Will Be Considered When Your Claim Is Being Processed
A number of factors will be considered when your disability claim is being processed. The first is whether you have a qualifying disability. To be eligible for benefits, you must have a physical or mental impairment that keeps you from working in a job and is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
The second factor is whether you have worked enough in the past to earn the required credits. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the ten years before you became disabled. In some cases, you may be able to qualify with fewer credits if you are younger than 24.
The third factor is whether you currently have a job. To receive benefits, you must not be able to work in any capacity, not just in your previous job.
Conclusion
So, what do you need to do if you become disabled and can’t work? First, file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide documentation that shows how your disability is preventing you from working.
Your insurance company will review your claim and may ask for more information or request an examination by one of their doctors. If your claim is approved, you will begin receiving benefits that will help support you and your family until you can return to work.
