Sedentary occupations, by their nature, typically require individuals to sit for most of their day at work, with only brief periods of standing or walking. Individuals who work in sedentary jobs also can expect to lift only very light objects for most of the day, and perhaps objects weighing up to ten pounds for a small portion of the day. However, individuals may be entitled to long-term disability benefits, even if their job is mostly sedentary.

For instance, if a medical condition causes you extreme pain from sitting all day, you may be unable to perform the necessary and usual tasks of your job. Likewise, if you have a medical condition that adversely impacts your memory and your ability to concentrate, you may be unable to work in your current occupation, whether it is sedentary or not. If your job requires a specific level of mental capacity or cognitive functioning, and you no longer have that capacity, then you might be entitled to long-term disability benefits.

On the other hand, insurance plans sometimes change the eligibility criteria for receiving long-term disability benefits after you have received them for some time. For instance, these plans often change the definition of disability from an inability to perform your “own” or “regular” occupation, to an inability to perform “any” occupation. As a result, the plan administrator may determine that you no longer should be entitled to disability benefits because you can work in a sedentary occupation. However, this may not always be the case. You may have the same pain level, whether you are inactive or physically active. You also may have no training or education that would qualify you for a sedentary occupation.

Bonnici Law Group provides client-focused representation throughout the ERISA claims process. We are here to consider the evidence in support of your ERISA long-term disability claim and evaluate your application. Next, we can develop the most effective strategy for fighting any denials of coverage that you may receive. Allow us to handle your legal needs while you focus on your physical and emotional health. Contact the ERISA long-term disability attorneys of Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 or help@bonnicilawgroup.com.