Long-term disability claims are designed to provide individuals with financial support in the event they’re unable to work because of an injury or illness. They’re incredibly beneficial for preventing future lost income — and yet there are many misunderstandings surrounding them. Here’s an overview of five long-term disability misconceptions and common myths.
You Can’t Get Benefits When You’re Healthy
Many believe that they can’t receive long-term disability benefits when they’re healthy. However, the purpose of long-term disability insurance is to provide coverage for future disabilities that might occur due to an unexpected illness or injury. Before any disabling event happens, you’ll need to have a policy in place.
The insurance company evaluates the long-term disability claim based on the policyholder’s ability to work — not on their current health status. As such, healthy individuals should consider getting disability insurance to protect against future loss of income. This ensures that if they ever sustain an injury that prevents them from working, they’ll be able to file a long-term disability claim.
Only Those Who Work Full-Time Can Qualify
Another myth is that only full-time employees qualify for long-term disability benefits. In reality, long-term disability policies can cover part-time workers as well. So long as you can prove that you’re losing wages due to your inability to work, it is still possible to meet the eligibility criteria.
While different insurers have varying criteria, it’s a mistake to assume that part-time workers are excluded from coverage. It’s a good idea to check your specific long-term disability policy and possibly consult a long-term disability lawyer to understand your rights and options.
Workers Comp Is Similar to Long-Term Disability Benefits
It’s common to conflate worker’s compensation with long-term disability benefits and believe that the former makes the latter unnecessary — but this is a misunderstanding. Workers’ compensation only covers injuries and illnesses directly related to work, while long-term disability insurance provides benefits for disabilities that may occur outside the workplace.
This means that while worker’s compensation addresses immediate, work-related health issues, long-term disability policies are intended to cover a broader range of disabling conditions — regardless of whether or not they occurred at the workplace. It’s also worth noting that worker’s compensation may not be sufficient for long-term needs.
Government Employees Can’t Receive It
Some believe that government employees can’t receive long-term disability benefits. However, this is far from the truth. Most government employees enroll in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and other plans that allow them to apply for disability retirement. Carefully reviewing the long-term disability policy provided by a government employer is important for understanding the coverage and benefits available.
Long-Term Disability Benefits Only Help Older Adults
A widespread misunderstanding is that long-term disability benefits only help adults closer to retirement age. However, disabilities can affect people of all ages and can occur at any time of your life. As such, long-term disability insurance provides financial support regardless of age.
The insurance company evaluates each disability claim based on the policyholder’s current ability to work, not their age. Understanding the long-term disability claim process and the importance of benefits is important for maintaining financial stability throughout one’s career.
If You Need Assistance With Long-Term Disability Claims, Call Rosen Moss Snyder LLP
In the event you’re denied long-term disability benefits, don’t hesitate to call Rosen Moss Snyder LLP for a consultation. A long-term disability lawyer from our firm will ensure you receive the necessary support so that you’re not left without disability income insurance when you need it most. To start speaking with a long-term disability attorney or long-term care lawyer, call us today.