Five Steps To Take Now To Protect Your Rights To Long-Term Disability Benefits In Florida
Long-term disabilities can happen suddenly, but they often occur due to long-standing conditions that eventually worsen over the years. When these impact your ability to work, long-term disability benefits act as a safety net. If you have recently received a diagnosis, our Jacksonville long-term disability lawyer advises taking the following five steps to protect your rights to benefits.
- Get a Disability Diagnosis.
The Florida Department of Health reports that roughly 3.5 million people throughout the state suffer from disabilities. They are more than four times more likely to suffer serious financial setbacks due to their condition and are ten times more likely to experience severe chronic stress.
The first step towards obtaining long-term disability benefits in Florida is to get a thorough diagnosis from your doctor. This should include your current condition, your prognosis for recovery, and any current and future impairments that result.
- Get a Copy Of All Medical Records
Request copies of all medical records associated with your condition. Include diagnostic test results and lists of treatments you underwent, all medical providers you saw, and all current and past medications.
- Review Potential Benefits
If you have a disability that impacts your ability to work and is expected to last for a year or longer, you may be entitled to long-term disability benefits. If your employer offers this type of coverage, request a copy of all policy-related documents. They are required to prove them free of charge under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
You may also be entitled to benefits through the Social Security Administration. These are awarded based on your work history and having a qualified medical condition.
- Keep A Disability Journal
You are required to provide extensive information in order to file a disability claim. It is important to let them know how your condition impacts your ability to work and engage in hobbies and daily activities. Keep a journal documenting symptoms you suffer from and impairments that occur as a result.
- Get Professional Legal Help
Obtaining long-term disability benefits is a challenge. Over half of all claims are denied. To protect yourself and obtain the maximum amount you are entitled to in the least amount of time possible, get legal help.
Even if you have already filed and been denied disability benefits, our experienced Florida long-term disability lawyer can protect your rights in filing an appeal.
Request A Consultation With Our Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer Today
Long-term disabilities impact your ability to work, preventing you from providing for your family. Worrying about the financial problems you face can cause severe, chronic stress. At Farrell Disability Law, we help people facing this difficult situation get the long-term disability benefits they are entitled to, either through insurers or the Social Security Administration. For trusted legal guidance in filing a claim, call or contact our office and request a consultation with our Florida long-term disability lawyer in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.
Sources:
floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/people-with-disabilities/disability-and-health-program/DHP2021DataReport.pdf
dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/erisa#:~:text=The%20Employee%20Retirement%20Income%20Security,for%20individuals%20in%20these%20plans.
ssa.gov/disability
