Indiana Residents – Get Assistance from Expert Long-Term Disability Insurance Lawyers

While Capitan Law is not licensed to practice in Indiana courts, our long-term disability lawyers assist disabled Indiana citizens with ERISA-governed disability insurance claims. As discussed in more detail below, ERISA is federal law. If you have a claim that is governed by Indiana law, please contact a local attorney licensed to practice law in your state to assist you with that matter.

Facing a non-work-related injury or illness can threaten your financial stability. Let Capitan Law, your experienced long-term disability insurance lawyers, guide you through the application process for disability insurance via your employer’s ERISA-governed policy. Be aware that this process is complex, with insurance companies often attempting to minimize or deny benefits owed.

Our long-term disability attorneys will defend your rights, collate necessary evidence, and strive for the benefits you deserve. We offer free consultations, so call us at (267) 419-7888 today.

About ERISA and Long-Term Disability Insurance

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) typically governs long-term disability insurance plans provided by employers. That means if your employer pays for part or all of your disability coverage, you must follow the rules and procedures set forth by ERISA. The benefits that are provided by your LTD insurance policy will replace a portion of your income for an extended period, which is generally determined by your plan and the nature of your disability. As mentioned above, these claims can get complex. An ERISA benefits claim attorney will provide knowledge and experience to guide you through the process.

Each policy varies slightly in its definition of disability, but in general, to be eligible for benefits, the injured individual must be unable to perform the duties of their own job. After some time, eligibility for benefits may change and may stipulate that the individual cannot complete any work at any job due to their disability.

Differences between LTD Insurance and Workers’ Compensation

The main difference between long-term disability and workers’ compensation is that LTD benefits provide a partial-wage replacement for someone who becomes injured while doing something unrelated to their work, while workers’ comp is for job-related injuries and illnesses. If you are injured at work, you may still be able to apply for disability insurance benefits depending on the specific language contained in your policy. However, if you are eligible for both types of benefits, LTD benefits are usually offset by any benefits received through the workers’ comp claim.

Both insurance policies can come from your employer; however, not all businesses in Indiana have a legal obligation to provide long-term disability to their employees. If your employer does not offer LTD insurance, you may have purchased your own individual disability plan and paid the monthly premium. It is also possible to have a policy you purchased yourself and one provided through your employment relationship. If you sustain an injury or get sick, you’ll be able to collect benefits based on your policy type. The attorneys at Capitan Law can help you understand the options available to you and are well-equipped to help you navigate these complex issues.

Disabilities Qualifying for LTD Benefits

LTD policies typically cover severe medical conditions that prevent you from maintaining your previous work schedule. These disabling conditions can include autoimmune diseases, back and spine injuries, mental health disorders, and many others.

Filing a Long-Term Disability Insurance Claim

Immediately file a claim when an injury or illness impedes your work. First, file a short-term disability claim; when these benefits end, and your disability persists, your LTD benefits can commence. Start the process early to resolve any claim denials or delays promptly. We are happy to assist you in the long-term disability application process.

Common Reasons for Claim Denial

LTD claim filing is complicated, with any errors potentially leading to denials. Common reasons for denial include discrepancies in the definition of disability, missing medical records, procedural errors, inconsistent information, bad faith by insurance, and lack of understanding of rare medical conditions.

Appealing a Denied Claim

You can appeal a denied long-term disability claim. Under ERISA, you must file the appeal within 180 days from the denial notification date. At Capitan Law, we understand the appeals process and will help you through each necessary step.

Long-Term Disability Laws in Indiana

Dealing with a long-term disability in Indiana? Wondering how to secure financial support? The Hoosier State has specific laws and provisions that could aid you in these trying times. As an Indiana resident, understanding your rights to long-term disability (LTD) benefits is essential. So don’t get overwhelmed. Get informed.

How Does Indiana Define Long-Term Disability?

There is no specific legal definition of “long-term disability” concerning private insurance claims under Indiana law. In most cases, the term “long-term disability” means a medical condition that affects your capacity to perform your job for an extended period. However, the exact definitions and eligibility criteria for LTD benefits are usually laid out in individual insurance policies.

These policies can be complex and difficult to decipher, meaning many policyholders have trouble fully understanding their coverage. This is why legal guidance is essential in such circumstances. A lawyer can interpret the specifics of your policy, contest disputed claims, and guide you along the path to securing your entitlements. The team at Capitan Law is ready to assist you in these endeavors and more.

How Long Do I Need to Wait to Claim My Disability Benefits?

In Indiana, like in other states, there’s typically an “elimination” period to wait through before you can claim the long-term disability benefits you are owed. This period, usually lasting from 90 to 180 days, begins when you become disabled and cannot work.

Promptly reporting your disability and starting the claims process as soon as you become disabled is essential to avoid delays in your benefit payouts. For a thorough understanding of your policy’s terms and dependable guidance throughout the claims process, it’s best to get help from a seasoned lawyer.

How Much Can I Get in Long-Term Disability Benefits in Indiana?

In Indiana, the benefits you could be entitled to through long-term disability largely hinge on the specifics of your insurance policy. These policies often promise to cover around half to 70 percent of your income from before you were disabled.

Several factors, including your income before the disability, the LTD policy’s conditions, and the nature of your disability, can affect the final benefit sum. Also, remember that other benefit sources like Social Security Disability Income or workers’ compensation could potentially diminish the amount you finally receive from your insurance company.

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Long-Term Disability Claim in Indiana?

In Indiana, the time frame for filing a long-term disability claim is often laid out in the terms and conditions of your insurance policy. Typically, insurance providers require claims to be submitted within a set period, often 20 to 30 days from the onset of a disability. As a result, it’s vital to review your policy soon after becoming disabled to ensure you comprehend the claim requirements. If your policy does not specify a clear deadline, submitting your claim as quickly as possible is generally the best way to avoid any potential problems.

Contact our ERISA Benefits Claims Experts

At Capitan Law, we comprehend the urgency of receiving LTD benefits. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment during the claims process. If you’re unable to work in Indiana, call us at (267) 419-7888 for assistance with filing for benefits.