We get asked often whether our client can work while applying for STD or LTD benefits. The short answer is it depends.
It depends on the type of disability insurance policy you have and the definition of disability. For example, a physician with an occupation-specific policy could work in a different occupation while receiving LTD benefits. In that case, the physician would have to prove they are unable to practice in their own occupation as a physician.
Typically, we advise clients if they do not have to work, it is better they not. Working while applying for LTD benefits can complicate your claim. The insurance company may be more inclined to deny your claim because you have shown you are capable of some kind of work.
In most group disability insurance policies provided by an employer, the definition of disability starts out as being disabled from your own occupation and then transitions to any occupation.
At some point, you will have to prove you are disabled from working in any occupation. If you are working while applying or receiving LTD benefits, any occupation review could be very challenging.
It is important to understand what your disability policy says when considering whether or not you can work while filling for long term disability benefits. The experienced attorneys at Dabdoub Law Firm can help guide you through this process and explain the terms of your policy.
Help from a Lawyer with Expertise in Disability Insurance
This law firm was built to be a disability insurance law firm.
That focus means:
- All of our lawyers specialize in disability insurance claims;
- We have experience with every major disability insurance company;
- We have won important long term disability lawsuits.
Our disability lawyers can help you with:
- Submitting a disability insurance claim;
- Appealing a long-term disability denial;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company.
Hiring an experienced disability attorney is important. Because federal law applies to most disability insurance claims, our lawyers do not have to be located in your state.
Call for a free consultation with an experienced disability attorney. Pay no fees or costs unless you get paid.