If you purchased an individual Long Term Disability (LTD) policy either directly from an insurance carrier or through a professional organization, it is considered a “private” disability policy. Private policies are governed by general contract law and state insurance laws. Unlike ERISA (group policy) cases, in a private policy the claims process is not covered by any Federal law.
Insurance companies are happy to take your premiums, but when it comes to paying claims they will use any technical excuse they can find to deny you your benefits. If you are disabled, you need an attorney to fight for your rights in order to get the benefits to which you are entitled. The attorneys at Hermann Law Group have the experience and knowledge to successfully fight your insurance company’s efforts to deny you benefits
Even the most savvy policy owner can become confused by the technical provisions in many policies regarding “residual” or partial disability, other income, or the definition of disability based upon your past work. Private policies often provide for large monthly payments, making it vital to retain counsel as early as possible. We suggest meeting with an attorney well before your claim is filed
Many private LTD policies limit payment for mental impairments and certain other disabilities. Receiving other benefits—even Social Security Disability—does not guarantee that your private LTD claim will be approved. Even if your disability does fall within the guidelines of your policy, your insurance company may attempt to limit the amount of your monthly benefits. The decisions on your case can be made by claims examiners with little training or awareness of your conditions. Even if you have been receiving benefits for some time and your condition has not changed, the insurance company may suspend your benefits for any number of other reasons.
Hermann Law Group has over 40 years of experience and has successfully represented thousands of clients seeking disability. We know how to increase your chances of winning before the insurance company decides your case.