Hire an LTD Attorney Before Filing a Claim

If you’re thinking of filing a claim for long-term disability (LTD) benefits, it may be worthwhile to hire an attorney before doing so. As your employer's insurance company has no incentive to approve your claim, it will look for any excuse to deny you the benefits that you deserve. Therefore, something as simple as a missing document or missing a deadline to file a document could hurt your case before it begins.

An attorney will make sure that your case is as strong as possible before you start the process of filing paperwork. He or she will ensure that the evidence is stacked in your favor if your case ever goes to trial, as it may not be possible to present new evidence during the hearing process.

Likewise, your attorney will make sure that you have received regular care from a physician and that you have refrained from doing anything that could make you seem healthier than you really are. For instance, if you claim to have a back injury, your attorney will make sure that you aren't lifting heavy objects. Even if the lifting causes you pain, your employer’s insurance company is sure to look for evidence that you are faking your injury so it can deny your claim.

Finally, your attorney will make sure that you don't quit your job or take another position, as doing so could reduce the benefit that you are entitled to or eliminate it altogether.