Long-Term Disability Payments Cut Off Without Notice? 4 Things to Do
For anyone who’s unable to work because of an injury or an illness, long-term disability (LTD) payments are an absolute lifeline. That’s why the insurance company abruptly cutting off your benefits can come as a rude shock.
Insurers often terminate payments unlawfully. It could be that the adjuster just didn’t read your medical file fully that day, or didn’t understand the extent of your medical needs. Or maybe the insurer snooped on your social media and assumed you had made a full recovery–it’s happened before.
Whatever the reason, if you find yourself cut off from your long-term disability benefits unexpectedly, it’s crucial to act swiftly. The following steps can guide you through the process of contesting the insurer’s decision.
4 Things to Do if Your Long-Term Disability Payments Have Been Cut Off Without Notice
1. Obtain Written Confirmation from Your Insurer
Your first step should be to request a detailed written explanation from your insurer. This document should specify the reasons for the termination of your benefits.
Having this in writing not only clarifies the insurer’s position but also serves as essential evidence should you need to challenge their decision.
2. Consult Your Doctor
Once you have the denial letter in hand, take it to your treating doctor. Ask them to review the insurer’s reasons for denial and assess whether they agree with the decision.
If your physician disagrees with the insurance company’s assessment, ask them to document in writing why your disability prevents you from returning to your job duties. Their written statement should be detailed, explaining the medical reasons for your inability to work.
If your benefits have been cut off around the change of definition date, it’s essential for your doctor to articulate in writing why your disability makes it impossible for you to engage in any occupation for which you are qualified (as defined in the policy).
| What Does “Change of Definition” Mean? The “change of definition” date in long-term disability insurance is typically two years after a claim is approved. Initially, benefits are given if you can’t do your own job. After this date, to continue receiving benefits, you must be unable to perform any job for which you are qualified. |
If you are receiving care from multiple healthcare professionals, it’s best to obtain opinions from each. Again, ask them to provide written statements or emails commenting on your condition.
Collecting comprehensive input from all your healthcare providers will strengthen your case against the insurer’s decision.
3. Contact a Long-Term Disability Lawyer
Navigating and negotiating insurance claims will take a significant physical and mental toll at a time when you should be recovering. What’s more, you’ll find the deck is stacked against you: the insurance company has all the resources and power–and nothing to lose.
That’s why you should consult with a long-term disability lawyer immediately. An experienced lawyer who routinely handles LTD claims involving serious injury and life insurance will level the playing field.
Since initial consultations are complimentary, you can discuss your benefits worry-free.
4. Apply for CPP Disability
If your long-term disability benefits are at risk, consider applying for the Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit. It provides additional financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability.
Though it will not compensate you as fully as your insurance provider, it can serve as a backup if your LTD benefits have been cut off.
The CPP’s eligibility requirements can be onerous, which is why you should consult with your long-term disability lawyer if it’s the best course of action for you.
Contact a Leading Long-Term Disability Law Firm
Don’t take the insurance company’s decision to cut off your LTD benefits at face value. It is in your insurer’s best interests to reduce payments and reduce their financial exposure.
Speak to our long-term disability lawyers to make informed decisions and understand your next steps.
Schedule a consultation today.
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