Rob King & Associates, Trial Lawyers | December 27, 2024 | Personal Injury

Applying for long-term disability (LTD) benefits in Indianapolis, Indiana, can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with a serious illness or injury due to a car accident, workplace accident, or otherwise. These benefits are designed to provide financial assistance if you are unable to work for an extended period due to a disability. Whether you’re applying through an employer-sponsored plan, private insurance, or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), following the right steps can increase your chances of success.
Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
Step 1: Review Your Policy
Before starting the application process, it’s crucial to understand the terms of your LTD policy. Each policy varies in terms of coverage, eligibility, and duration.
Key aspects to review include:
- Definition of Disability: Policies often define disability differently. Some cover disabilities that prevent you from performing your current job, while others require proof that you cannot work in any occupation.
- Coverage Period: Check how long benefits will last and whether there’s a waiting period before they begin.
- Exclusions: Some policies exclude specific conditions or limit coverage for certain types of disabilities.
Understanding these details will help you determine if you qualify and what documentation you’ll need.
Step 2: Gather Medical Documentation
Strong medical evidence is essential to support your LTD claim. Insurance providers require proof of your condition, its severity, and its impact on your ability to work.
Collect the following documents:
- Medical records detailing your diagnosis, treatments, and progress
- Test results, such as imaging scans or lab reports
- A letter from your doctor explaining how your condition affects your daily life and work abilities
- A treatment plan or prognosis
Make sure your healthcare provider understands the requirements of your policy so they can provide the most helpful information.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The next step is to fill out the application for LTD benefits. Be thorough and accurate, as incomplete or inconsistent information can delay the process or lead to a denial.
Your application may require details such as:
- Your medical history
- Information about your job and income
- A description of your disability and how it affects your ability to work
- Supporting documentation, including medical records and employer statements
Double-check all forms for accuracy before submitting them. It’s also helpful to keep a copy of your application and all correspondence for your records.
Step 4: Meet Deadlines and Communicate With the Insurer
Most LTD policies have strict deadlines for filing a claim. Failing to meet these deadlines could result in a denial, so it’s important to act quickly.
After submitting your application, stay in touch with your insurer or claims administrator. Respond promptly to requests for additional information or documentation. Be prepared for the possibility of an independent medical examination (IME) or vocational assessment, which insurers often use to evaluate claims.
Maintaining open communication can help keep your claim moving forward.
Step 5: Appeal if Necessary
Unfortunately, initial LTD claims are sometimes denied. Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical evidence, missing deadlines, or disagreements about the severity of your condition.
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial letter will explain why your claim was rejected and outline the steps to appeal.
During the appeal process:
- Review the denial letter carefully to understand the insurer’s reasoning.
- Submit additional medical evidence or documentation to address the issues raised.
- Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in disability claims to strengthen your case.
Appeals can take time, but persistence often pays off. Many denied claims are approved on appeal. Before appealing, consider consulting a qualified attorney who understands disability law to ensure you understand your rights and improve your chances of success.