Long Term Disability Claims Attorneys for Sjogren’s Syndrome
If you developed Sjogren’s syndrome and lost your ability to perform your work-related duties, theKentucky long term disability lawyers of Capitan Law might be able to represent you in your case and file a claim for long term disability (LTD) insurance coverage. You deserve monthly benefit payments when your disability prevents you from returning to your job. You likely have medical bills, prescription drug costs, out-of-pocket expenses, and other bills you’re struggling to pay due to your lost income. If your employer provides LTD insurance, you might be entitled to benefits to replace your lost wages and pay for your daily living expenses.
Capitan Law has experience representing clients in their long term disability claims. We have the resources and knowledge of laws to effectively handle the process and recover the maximum available benefits you need and deserve. If the insurance company denies your claim, we can file an appeal to reverse their decision or take your case to court if necessary. Do not hesitate to call us at (267) 419-7888 for your free initial consultation.
Functional Limitations Caused By Sjogren’s Syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease with symptoms affecting the whole body. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, causing varying degrees of pain and limitations for individual patients. Immediate and proper medical care is crucial to prevent the disease from progressing further and leading to severe complications. Many people develop other autoimmune diseases along with this one, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
The most common symptoms caused by Sjogren’s syndrome are:
- Burning or dry throat
- Dry eyes
- Respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath
- Neurological issues, such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating
- Dry mouth, dental decay, and mouth sores
- Trouble swallowing
- Upset stomach
- Pneumonia, interstitial lung disease, and recurrent bronchitis
- Dry nose, nosebleeds, and recurrent sinusitis
- Change in smell or taste
- Joint and muscle pain or arthritis
- Vaginal dryness
- Skin sensitivity to UV light
- Irritable bowel
- Trouble focusing
- Fatigue
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Pain and swollen parotid/salivary glands
Sjogren’s syndrome can become debilitating, leading to significant mental and physical defects. It’s vital that you see your doctor at the first sign of symptoms to diagnose the disease and begin an appropriate treatment plan. Every patient is unique and responds differently to specific treatments. Some might require prescription medications, while others can simply adjust their lifestyle to alleviate symptoms.
How Does Long Term Disability Insurance Work?
LTD insurance coverage replaces a percentage of a worker’s lost income when they’re unable to return to their job or earn their regular income after developing a disabling medical condition. Since Sjogren’s syndrome likely caused your impairments and inability to complete job-related tasks, you could file a claim for monthly benefit payments.
Payments can be anywhere from 50% to 70% of your average monthly wages before the start of your disability. You will start receiving benefits once you go through the required elimination period. This is a waiting period between the date your disability began and the first payment you receive. Depending on your insurance company, you would have to wait as little as 30 days or as long as 365 days.
LTD coverage will last for as long as your disease prevents you from working or for as long as the duration specified in your coverage. As soon as you return to your job, payments will stop. Most insurance policies provide up to two years of benefit payments, but your disability must last for at least six months in order for you to be eligible for payments. Some insurance companies provide lifetime benefits if your physical or mental functioning has severely diminished and you’re unable to maintain any employment.
Why Was My Long Term Disability Application Denied?
Insurance companies are notorious for placing their own interests over those of plan participants. Typically, they will find a way to pay out as little money as possible or deny someone’s claim altogether. Knowing the common reasons for denied LTD claims could prepare you for the long road ahead. You should be aware of how insurance companies review applications and evidence so you can potentially avoid the pitfalls many people face while pursuing benefits.
IME results – Most insurance companies require claimants to undergo an independent medical examination (IME). This is an appointment with a doctor they choose to evaluate your condition and determine if they agree with your initial doctor. If the results show your symptoms aren’t associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, you likely won’t receive long term disability coverage.
Incomplete or incorrect forms – You should ensure the forms you complete for the insurance company are accurate and complete. Any missing information or inconsistent details could result in a denial.
Missed deadline – Filing deadlines are strict. If your employer provides LTD insurance, you must file your claim within the timeframe specified on the policy. ERISA law requires appealing a denied claim within at least 180 days of the denial date.
Disability definition – Insurance plans list disabling medical conditions eligible for benefit payments. There’s also a list of exclusions prohibiting coverage for specific diseases. If Sjogren’s syndrome is one of those exclusions, you won’t be entitled to monthly insurance payments.
Bad faith – Some insurance companies act in bad faith. They might delay the claims process unnecessarily, deny the claim for an unfair reason, or fail to review all evidence associated with the disabling condition thoroughly.
If you believe you deserve LTD benefits, Capitan Law can help you appeal the insurance company’s decision. We can review the denial letter to determine their reasoning, obtain additional evidence and documentation proving your diagnosis, and pursue the maximum payments available. If they still deny your right to benefits, our legal team has no problem taking your case to court.
Contact Capitan Law Today
The Sjogren’s syndrome long term disability claims attorneys of Capitan Law believe in fighting for the rights of disabled clients. You shouldn’t be forced to pay your expenses out of pocket if you qualify for LTD benefits. When you hire us, our dedicated team will take on the task of filing your claim and finding relevant evidence proving that your medical condition inhibits your ability to earn your usual wages. We won’t give up until you start receiving the monthly payments you need to treat your symptoms.
To find out more about the services we provide, call Capitan Law at (267) 419-7888 or contact us online. We’ll be happy to meet with you for a free consultation.
