Filing for Disability Insurance Benefits

Those who have been disabled because of an accident or other causes can file for disability insurance benefits. To qualify for disability insurance benefits, the disabled person needs to prove their disability to continue doing the work they were doing prior to becoming disabled. As there is more than one kind of disability insurance, the disabled person has to first check the policy to see if their disability is covered. Once you are sure you qualify for disability benefits, you need to file a claim. This has to be done properly to ensure that the insurance company pays your benefits.

Read the Policy

The first step to filing for disability insurance benefits is to read the policy document carefully. Ensure that the disabled person is eligible for the benefits claimed. In case of an “Own Occupation” insurance cover, be aware that the disability should not only prevent the employee from working with the current employer, but also prevent the worker from working in a similar position with any employer in the locality.

Unlike an “Own occupation” insurance cover, an “Any Occupation” insurance cover is limited to a disability that prevents the person concerned from working at any occupation that they are educated and qualified for. Such a disability is more difficult to prove; however, it is not impossible.

Get Medical Certificates

Most insurers require that the disability be described by a doctor who can certify to the nature of the disabilities. The employee needs to be under the continuing care of a doctor to qualify for the insurance benefits.

Fill the Form Accurately

When filling the required forms, make sure that the answers are accurate. In fact, attach extra sheets to describe the nature of the disabilities in full. Any inaccuracy or incomplete answer will lead to the benefits being denied.

File the Claim as Soon as Possible

It is best to file the benefits claim as soon as the disability is clear. A failure to let the insurance company know of your disability as early as possible can be a ground for denying your claim.

Continue Paying Premiums

In case the insurance company rejects your claim, continue paying the premiums stating that you are contesting the rejection.

Retain a Lawyer

Retain a lawyer to help you file a claim as insurance companies look for loopholes to avoid paying the benefits. In case the insurance company rejects your claim, the help of a competent lawyer must be taken to fight the case on your behalf.