If you have a long-term disability that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for benefits from your employer or an insurance company.
However, obtaining approval for these benefits can pose a challenge and be frustrating.
You may face delays, denials, or lowball offers that don’t reflect your true needs.
That’s why you may need a lawyer to help you with your long-term disability claim.
![A picture showing a deal made between a client and a disability lawyer[photo courtesy: Roeschke Law, LLC]](https://i0.wp.com/disabilityrightsgalaxy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Do-You-Need-a-Lawyer-for-Long-Term-Disability-Heres-What-You-Should-Know.jpg?resize=759%2C447&ssl=1)
[photo courtesy: Roeschke Law, LLC]
What Does a Long-Term Disability Lawyer Do?
A long-term disability lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in helping clients with disability claims. They can assist you with:
- Filing your initial application and gathering all the necessary medical and vocational evidence to support your claim.
- Appealing a denied or terminated claim and presenting your case to the insurance company or an administrative judge.
- Negotiating a fair settlement or filing a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to pay you what you deserve.
- Protecting your rights and interests throughout the process and ensuring that you comply with all the rules and deadlines.
How Much Does a Long-Term Disability Lawyer Charge?
One of the main concerns that people have about hiring a lawyer is the cost.
However, you don’t have to worry about paying upfront fees or hourly rates when you hire a long-term disability lawyer.
Most of them work on a contingency basis, which means that they only get paid if you win your case.
The amount that they charge is usually a percentage of your past-due benefits, also known as back pay.
Federal law caps this percentage at 25% or $6,000, whichever is lower.
The lawyer may also charge you for some expenses, such as copying fees, postage, or medical records. Usually, they deduct these expenses from your back pay as well.
How Can You Find a Good Long-Term Disability Lawyer?
Not all lawyers are equally qualified or experienced in handling long-term disability cases. You need to find someone who has the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle your case effectively. Here are some tips on how to find a good long-term disability lawyer:
- Ask for referrals from friends, family, or coworkers who have gone through a similar process.
- Search online for reviews, ratings, or testimonials from previous clients.
- Check the lawyer’s credentials, such as education, training, certification, or membership in professional associations.
- Contact the lawyer and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and ask questions.
- Compare different lawyers and choose the one who makes you feel comfortable and confident.
Visit our website to learn more on how disability lawyers get paid.
Conclusion
Applying for long-term disability benefits can be a daunting task, especially if you have to deal with an uncooperative insurance company.
That’s why it’s wise to hire a lawyer who can guide you through the process and fight for your rights.
A lawyer can increase your chances of approval and can help you receive the maximum amount of benefits you deserve.
If you enjoyed this article and want to learn more about the disability insurance, don’t forget to check out our website for more interesting and informative content.