Losing your main source of income due to an injury or disability can be devastating for not only you, but any dependent family members as well. Thankfully, there are insurance policies in place that allow you to collect a portion of your paycheque even if you are unable to work. Each case varies based on the individual situation and policy, however; the medical conditions that qualify for long-term disability (LTD) remain the same. If you’re unable to work because of a medical condition, refer to the information below to see if you could qualify.
What is a Long-Term Disability?
Before getting into what medical conditions qualify for benefits, it is important to understand the general process. The wait is typically between 90 -120 days, during that time you’ll likely be on short-term disability. If you are still unable to return to work once the short-term disability coverage ends, you can start to receive long-term disability benefits. This is meant for those who will likely not return to work for at least a year. For a more in-depth look at when you should apply for long-term disability, this article goes into further detail.
Medical Conditions
Whether the injury is physical, emotional or mental, if you are unable to work, then this is an option you need to look into. Listed below are some of the common medical conditions that qualify for LTD benefits.
- Chronic pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Headache and migraine
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Knee disorders
- Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
- Crohn’s Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Back problems
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Depression
- Bipolar Mood Disorder
- Sleep Disorders
- Visual Disorders
- Heart Disease
While these are not all of the possible medical conditions, it is advisable to reach out to a disability benefits lawyer with whom you can discuss your situation. They will be able to look at your case and inform you as to whether or not you should qualify.
Proof of Medical Condition
Suffering from any medical condition that results in you not being able to work is painful in many ways, but unfortunately, an insurance company is not going to take your word for it. You need medical evidence to prove that you are unable to return to work.
One of the strongest pieces of evidence you can give to your insurance provider is a detailed statement from your physician. Have your physician share their opinion on your condition and list the reasons as to why you are not able to return to work. When you go to collect the statement, get any other medical records that further support your condition. Ask for clinic reports, lab results, surgical reports, x-rays, MRI and/or CT results and any other possible documents available.
Another important step you need to take to prove your injury is ongoing is to continue to receive treatment even after you’ve been approved for benefits. If you do not continue treatment, your insurance company may have the right to stop providing benefits all together.
Your Next Step
It can seem a little confusing when you are trying to figure out if you can qualify for long-term disability. It varies from case to case as every situation and medical condition is quite different. It’s important to keep an open line of communication with your human resources department and ensure you’re upholding your other responsibilities while on leave. If you’re still unsure as to whether or not you can apply, a personal injury lawyer will be able to help you through the entire process.
