Most individuals receive long-term disability coverage through their employment. These employer-sponsored group policies are governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Under ERISA, insurance companies are under strict deadlines to make decisions on claims for benefits.
How long will it take for the insurance company to make a decision on my initial claim for disability benefits?
Under ERISA, the insurance company has an initial 45-day period to make a decision on a claim. This 45 day period begins the day you submit all information required to initiate your claim, including proof of disability. The insurance company is allowed two 30-day extension periods to render a decision. However, the insurance company cannot take such extensions unless the extension is necessary due to matters beyond its control. The insurance company must also notify you that it is taking any such extension(s).
How long will it take the insurance company to make a decision on my appeal for disability benefits?
Your benefits were denied. So, you appealed to the insurance company’s denial of benefits. Under ERISA, the insurance company has 45 days to make a decision on your appeal. The insurance can take one 45 day extension, but only if there are special circumstances warranting such an extension. The insurance company must identify any special circumstances. In no situation should the insurance company take longer than 90 days to make a decision.
Our Lawyers Specialize in Disability Insurance Claims
Because our law firm has always focused only on disability insurance, our lawyers are experts in legal representation for disability insurance benefits. We will make sure to keep the insurance companies to their legal deadlines. If they should violate the law, we will take advantage of such violations in your favor.
Our lawyers have:
- Won several major disability lawsuits that help make better law for disability claimants;
- Experience fighting every major insurance company, such as UNUM, Hartford, MetLife, CIGNA, Prudential, and more.
- Successfully represented hundreds of clients and won millions of dollars in disability benefits.
Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, we can help clients across the country. Disability insurance companies have lawyers. You should too. Call Dabdoub Law Firm to get experienced disability lawyers on your side.
We can help with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a long-term disability denial;
- Managing an ongoing claim for disability benefits;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
Call for a free consultation with a disability attorney. No fees or costs until you get paid.
