Moving from Short-Term to Long-Term Disability 

Are you thinking about converting your short-term disability to a long-term disability (LTD)? It’s a big decision, and switching from short-term to long-term disability can be stressful. When deciding to transition, there are many things to take into account, including how long you will be on disability, your financial situation, and the kind of disability insurance you have.

Short-Term vs Long-Term Disability?

• Short-term disability insurance cover is used to replace lost income for those who are unable to return to work due to an injury or illness, and lasts for three to six months or up to one year.
• On the other hand, long-term disability is meant for people who have a more serious illness that prevents them from going back to work. Benefits from this kind of policy may be available for a significantly longer time frame, sometimes up to five years or more.

Determine Your Eligibility

It can be difficult to move to long-term disability. But you don’t have to do it alone. Let Cunnane Law help.

Understanding what is necessary to meet the requirements is essential because the eligibility requirements for different insurance companies vary. In general, if an illness or injury prevents you from working for an extended period of time, you may be eligible for long-term disability benefits. Do your homework and speak with a qualified disability attorney at Cunnane Law, who can assist you in determining whether you qualify for long-term disability benefits. At Cunnane Law we have over 100 years experience in successfully handling disability and insurance claims.

Applying for Long-Term Disability

You and your attorney can complete your application once you’ve established the requirements your insurance policy specifies for receiving benefits. To submit a successful application, you must have all the supporting medical documentation requested by the form. A separate letter from your doctor stating that you are unable to work, the nature of your disorder, and the expected length of your disability, may be required for the documentation. Some doctors do not want to get involved with insurance claims, but Cunnane Law works and knows how to get cooperation with the necessary medical professionals.

Appeal the Decision

You have the right to appeal the decision if your application for LTD benefits was denied. You must be very careful here. Because the documents and evidence you provide may not be enough to win your claim.  You will be required to present evidence in support of your claim.  Your attorney can defend your rights and assist you throughout the appeals process. Simply, filing a letter from you asking the insurance company to appeal likely will not be enough to get on claim.

Use Legal Counsel

To help you make the switch from short-term to long-term disability, it might be in your best interest to hire an attorney. Having a skilled attorney on your side can ensure proper handling of your case and increase the likelihood that you will be granted the benefits to which you are entitled.  A long-term disability attorney can give you advice on the best course of action and assist you in building your case. We make sure we get all the necessary evidence and medical records to support your claim for disability.

Take It to Court

The court process can be time-consuming and expensive, but it may be your only option if you believe you were wrongfully denied benefits. It is crucial that you have a qualified lawyer with experience in disability cases representing you in court and assisting you in making the best case possible.

Consult a Long-Term Disability Lawyer

Cunnane Law’s experienced attorneys excel at assisting clients in transitioning from short-term to long-term disability. We understand the difficulties and complexities of switching from one to the other and can assist you in navigating the process with confidence. Our attorneys have a thorough understanding of long-term disability claims and can advise you on how to appeal a decision and gather evidence, as well as represent you in court if necessary. Call us today for a consultation to learn how we can assist you in successfully transferring from short-term to long-term disability.

Note: This information was provided not for any specific claim and is written in broad and general terms and may not be the right path to follow for a particular claim or case. This information is not intended to create an attorney client relationship. It is always best to receive direct legal counsel for your legal issues. It is never too early to call the attorney, but it can be too late.