Noteboom The Law Firm

What To Do If Your Long-Term Disability Claim Has Been Denied

If you have been denied long-term disability, you do have some recourse. The most important step is to talk to a lawyer who can advise you on how to proceed. There are also some steps you can take on your own.

You should read the denial letter and make a note of the amount of time you have to appeal. Be sure to send in your appeal before that time, which will be in the form of a letter detailing why you need the long-term disability payments. If you want the best chance of obtaining benefits, you will include pertinent details. They should include how you got the condition, how long you have had it, why it prevents you from working, and how the money would help you.

Your letter of denial should tell you why your claim was rejected. There might not have been enough proof of your condition, or perhaps the Social Security Administration is under the impression that you can still work. Getting a letter of recommendation from your doctor can be helpful, as long as he or she agrees that you have a serious condition and are not able to work.

Be sure to consult your lawyer before you send in the appeal. This is likely the only chance you will have to try to get the decision repealed, so make sure you have included as many supporting details as possible.

You can expect to wait nearly two months before you will receive an answer, and the SSA may ask to talk to your doctor during that time. Anything that will convince the Social Security Administration of what you already know will be helpful to your case. During your wait period, you should stay positive and talk to your lawyer for support and answers to any questions you might have about the long-term disability appeals process.

If you, or your loved one, are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.