SOUTHFIELD, MI
The metro Detroit-based attorneys at Levine Benjamin Law Firm have been representing Michigan-area clients for decades with issues stemming from denials of long-term disability insurance (LTD). To help raise awareness for their clients and others considering insurance options, their team has prepared four FAQs to help steer individuals in the right direction.
“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to LTD, and considering all options and even partnering with a lawyer is fast becoming a preferred avenue,” said Joseph E. Houle, managing partner of Levine Benjamin Law Firm.
Levine Benjamin Managing Partner Gary W. Bimberg added that “at least 30% of today’s workers will see 90 days of lost work due to a disability,” and that “most are unprepared for the unfortunate case of preparing for and/or being denied coverage.” The uncertainty of making ends meet, let alone knowing available options, is a highly unnecessary and a preventable predicament.
Below are four of the most common questions received almost daily.
No. 1: What conditions qualify for long-term disability? Nearly any mental or physical health conditions can qualify one for long-term disability benefits. Where many feel lost is when it comes to the definition and qualifying standards. Typically, LTD insurance plans and policies define disability as a sickness or injury that prevents one from performing either their own occupation or any occupation. Houle stated “the rabbit hole can go deep, as many LTD plans contain varied language that can actually contain limited terms of disability coverage, therefore requiring additional proof to maintain coverage.”
No. 2: How long can you be on long-term disability? The length of time for payouts on a long-term disability plan or policy depends on the specific terms of the coverage. Some LTD plans will cover until retirement age, yet others may only last one or two years if covering conditions such as depression or anxiety. Bimberg added, “The key to understanding the policy is to thoroughly review your policy or call a professional for interpretation.”
No. 3: What do you do if your long-term disability is denied? It is absolutely critical to fully understand your rights and other potential options for coverage immediately after a denial for coverage. Law firms such as Levine Benjamin specialize in understanding the unique situational needs of their clients, and can discover potential errors and protect the client during these crucial moments in life.
No. 4: How much does long-term disability coverage cost? Every insurance company has a unique rate and cost per state, and can change as policy offerings come and go. The actual cost can range from around $2,000 per year and go as high as $5,000 for someone around the age of 55. The best route to finding out costs is shopping around and contacting different insurance carriers to compare plans.
About Levine Benjamin Law Firm:
Levine Benjamin Law Firm has been proudly serving the Southfield and surrounding areas since 1964. Their expert attorneys are always fighting for the rights of their clients and have a primary focus on social security disability, workers comp, personal injury, medicare health plans and long-term disability. Every case they handle, no matter the specialty, is a top priority to the Levine Benjamin Law Firm team. The law firm is located at 100 Galleria Officentre, Suite 411, Southfield, MI 48034-8430. To learn more visit www.levinebenjamin.com or call (248) 352-5700
About the NALA™
The NALA offers small and medium-sized businesses effective ways to reach customers through new media. As a single-agency source, the NALA helps businesses flourish in their local community. The NALA’s mission is to promote a business’ relevant and newsworthy events and achievements, both online and through traditional media. The information and content in this article are not in conjunction with the views of the NALA. For media inquiries, please call 805.650.6121, ext. 361.
