If you have a chronic illness or have been in an accident and suffered an injury that makes it difficult to work, you might be able to claim long-term disability benefits. These benefits are intended to help you cover your living expenses and any support you need in day-to-day life. The claims process for long-term disability can be challenging. Working with a disability attorney can make navigating the process much easier.
Health Conditions That Qualify for Long-Term Disability Benefits
Many conditions might qualify for disability benefits, including:
- Cancer
- Lupus
- Heart disease
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Occupational illnesses
- Mental disorders
- Loss of limbs
- Immune system disorders
If you have a long-term illness or a serious injury that impairs your mobility or otherwise makes it difficult for you to work and carry out day-to-day tasks, you may be able to claim long-term disability.
Reasons a Long-Term Disability Claim May Be Denied
Unfortunately, not everyone diagnosed with a severe medical condition or injury is approved for long-term disability benefits on their first try. Insurance companies require people to prove their diagnosis before the claim is accepted, and the necessary standard of proof is high.
Claims are commonly denied if the insurance company feels medical evidence is insufficient or the doctor’s statement accompanying the claim doesn’t make the work-related health limitations clear. You can increase the chances of having your claim approved if you work with a lawyer who understands the system, and you have them ask your doctor to provide a report highlighting how your disability affects your ability to perform your usual work duties.
How a Long-Term Disability Attorney Can Help
If you have a severe health condition or an injury that impacts your life, you might find the idea of filling out forms to claim disability benefits rather daunting. Attending administrative hearings could also be a challenge, as could collecting evidence to support your claim.
A disability lawyer can help with all those things and guide you through the appeals process if you’ve already had a claim denied. John E. Dunlap is an experienced attorney with extensive experience in providing legal representation to people trying to claim disability benefits. We can help you claim the maximum amount you’re entitled to.
We Serve Clients in Poplar Bluff, MO, and Throughout the Mid-South
If you live in Poplar Bluff or the surrounding areas of the Mid-South, our law offices can help you with the long-term disability application process. We know what insurance companies are looking for and can help you make the clearest possible case for your disability claim.
Support for Clients Claiming Short-Term Disability and Social Security Disability
In addition to assisting clients claiming long-term disability, we can also help with short-term disability and Social Security disability cases. Whatever your medical condition or injury, our team can advise you on the evidence required from your doctor and help you assemble a claim with the maximum chances of acceptance. Our goal is to support you throughout the claims process and help you get the maximum disability benefit you’re entitled to.
Contact Us for a Free 20-minute Consultation
If you need assistance with a long-term disability claim, short-term disability, or Social Security disability, contact John E. Dunlap today to book a free 20-minute consultation. We can explain your options.