Long-term disability (LTD) insurance is a vital lifeline for individuals who are unable to work because of a disability. If a serious illness or injury prevents you from working, long-term disability can replace a portion of your lost income. However, filing a claim for these benefits is no simple task.
It is essential to work with a New Orleans long-term disability benefits lawyer who understands how the process works. If you’re ready to get started on your claim, we encourage you to begin gathering supporting documentation now. Our attorneys can help you with this step, with filing your claim, and with any necessary appeals.
Essential Evidence for Your Long-Term Disability Claim
Filing a solid claim for LTD coverage is critical because time is of the essence. If your claim is weak, it may be denied and leave you with no payout when you need it the most. You can appeal the decision, but still lose precious time for which you should be covered. Retaining a knowledgeable New Orleans long-term disability attorney can avoid this problem.
Your lawyer will build your case by helping you gather evidence, such as the following documents.
Doctor’s Statement
A statement from your physician can affirm that you have a covered disability. This should be a medical professional who regularly treats your condition. If you have another physician (for example, a specialist) who assists with treatment, obtain a statement from that person, too.
Test Results and Scans
These are critical medical records that demonstrate the nature and extent of your disabling condition. If you have several of these records, especially over a prolonged period of time, your claim will more likely be accepted. Some of these records could be difficult to locate, so begin gathering them as soon as possible.
Statements From Family and Friends
Many LTD claimants are unaware that statements from family and friends can aid in their claim. These should be individuals who regularly (daily, if possible) observe you. They can and should attest, in detail, to what they perceive about your disability and how it impacts your life.
Information About Your Job Duties
The main reason to file a claim for long-term disability coverage is that your disability prevents you from working. You should therefore obtain some documentation of what your core job duties are, perhaps from your human resources department. This will show that your disability prevents you from performing such duties and, therefore, working.
Social Security Disability Records
If you have records from Social Security concerning your disability, collect those. This is especially helpful if your claim was specifically approved by Social Security. Be sure to have your New Orleans long-term disability benefits lawyer examine these documents.
Functional Capacity Exam (or Evaluation)
This document is a set of tests used to determine the following about an individual:
- Physical skills
- Functional capabilities
- Work tolerances
- Activity endurance
A functional capacity exam is rather extensive and can provide detailed information about how your disability limits you.
Vocational Analysis Report
Also known as a vocational evaluation, this report examines a person’s ability to earn income by working. It can basically demonstrate whether an individual can earn a living at all. This document provides a compelling argument for approving your request for a disability payout.
Our Legal Team Is Ready to Start on Your LTD Claim
Our firm can assist with every aspect of your long-term disability claim. We can help you gather the above and other records that will prove useful to you. To learn more about preparing for and filing your claim, reach out to our New Orleans long-term disability benefits attorney.
