Have you faithfully paid for long-term disability insurance only to have your claim denied when you needed it most? Are you struggling to understand the complex language in your policy while dealing with a debilitating illness or injury? When health problems prevent you from working, you deserve to receive the benefits you’ve been paying for.
At Ted A. Greve & Associates, we understand the frustration and financial strain a disability can bring into your life. Our Concord, NC, long-term disability lawyers are passionate about fighting for clients who have been wrongfully denied the benefits they deserve. With our experienced legal team on your side, you can focus on your health while we handle the complicated claims process. Contact us today at (800) 333-4333 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Understanding Long-Term Disability Law in Concord, NC
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance provides income protection if you become unable to work due to illness or injury. These policies typically replace 50 to 80 percent of your income, with most requiring a waiting period of three to six months before benefits begin.
In Concord and throughout North Carolina, LTD claims fall under two main categories:
- Employer-provided plans: These plans are governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), a federal law that establishes specific guidelines and procedures.
- Private individual policies: These plans have different rules and often provide more comprehensive coverage than employer-offered plans.
Major disability insurers handling claims in the Concord area include Aetna, Cigna, Hartford, Liberty Mutual, MetLife, Prudential, and Unum. Many policyholders are frustrated to discover that these companies often look for reasons to deny legitimate claims because they prioritize their financial interests over their well-being.
Why You Need a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
While it is possible to file a claim without legal representation, having a lawyer on your side can help make the process more efficient and effective.
Role of a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
A skilled long-term disability attorney serves as your advocate throughout the entire claims process. Our lawyers at Ted A. Greve & Associates will:
- Review your policy to determine your specific coverage and rights
- Explain complex legal terminology in plain language
- Gather and organize supporting medical evidence
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- Make sure your claim meets all deadlines
- Represent you during appeals and hearings
Our team includes not only experienced trial lawyers but also a chiropractic physician and knowledgeable paralegals who understand both the legal and medical aspects of your case.
Common Challenges in Filing Claims
Insurance companies often use unscrupulous tactics to delay or deny legitimate disability claims. These may include:
- Requiring you to repeatedly submit documentation they claim never arrived
- Demanding irrelevant or excessive paperwork
- Making minimal efforts to properly evaluate your claim
- Using ambiguous policy language to confuse policyholders
- Arranging examinations with doctors who consistently side with insurance companies
These challenges can overwhelm individuals who are already dealing with health problems. Our attorneys are familiar with these tactics, and we know how to protect you from unfair treatment.
How Lawyers Can Help With Denied Claims
If your claim has been denied, you have the right to appeal. Common reasons for denial include:
- Lack of sufficient medical evidence
- Failure to meet the policy’s definition of disability
- Exclusions for pre-existing conditions
- Missing deadlines or incomplete paperwork
After thoroughly analyzing your denial letter, our lawyers will gather additional supporting evidence and craft a robust appeal strategy. We will work swiftly to meet all deadlines and requirements.
The Process of Filing a Long-Term Disability Claim
Knowing what to expect when filing an LTD claim can boost your confidence and optimize your decision-making process.
Steps to File a Claim Successfully
A successful claim requires you to:
- Notify your employer and insurance company of your disability
- Obtain comprehensive medical documentation of your condition
- Complete all required claim forms accurately
- Submit your claim with all supporting documentation
- Follow up regularly on the status of your claim
Our attorneys can guide you through each step, helping you avoid common pitfalls that lead to denials.
Important Documentation and Deadlines
Successful claims require thorough documentation, including:
- Medical records documenting your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
- Statements from treating physicians detailing your limitations
- Employment records showing your job duties and earnings
- Personal statements describing how your condition affects your ability to work
Strict deadlines govern every aspect of the claims process, and they can vary significantly depending on your insurer. Missing these deadlines can result in automatic denial of your claim. Our team will track all deadlines and submit all required documents punctually.
Understanding the Appeals Process
If your initial claim is denied, you have the right to appeal, whether your claim is for LTD benefits you paid for or for a Social Security Disability claim.
For Concord residents with Social Security Disability claims, appeals are handled by the Charlotte hearing office located at 2201 Coronation Blvd. The appeals process typically involves:
- Filing a request for reconsideration
- Presenting additional medical evidence
- Attending a hearing before an administrative law judge
- Further appeals to the Appeals Council if necessary
- Filing a lawsuit in federal court as a last resort
Ted A. Greve & Associates will represent you throughout this process, preparing strong arguments and gathering compelling evidence to support your claim.
Timeline for Receiving Benefits
The timeline for receiving benefits varies depending on your policy and whether appeals are necessary. In general, here is what you can expect:
- Initial claims typically take 30-90 days for a decision.
- If approved, benefits usually begin after your policy’s elimination period (typically three to six months from the onset of disability).
- Appeals can extend this timeline by several months or even years.
Our goal is to help you receive benefits as quickly as possible while building the strongest case for the benefits you paid for.
Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates
Making your way through the complex disability system without professional guidance often leads to denials. The experienced Concord long-term disability insurance lawyers at Ted A. Greve & Associates will work to reduce your stress and secure a positive future for you and your loved ones. Call us now for a free consultation to start your journey toward financial security during this challenging time.
