You always have the option of handling your long-term disability claim on your own, but even one simple mistake can mean the difference between a benefits award and a benefits denial. ERISA-governed long-term disability claims involve complex federal law and requirements of which most members of the general public are unaware. Only attorneys with extensive experience in handling long-term disability claims and appeals have the legal knowledge and skills necessary to build claims with the greatest chance of success.

The importance of accumulating as much evidence as possible at the outset of your long-term disability claim cannot be understated. If your administrative appeals conducted by the insurance company end in denial, your only recourse is to seek review by a federal district court. However, the court only can consider evidence already in the record from the administrative proceedings. Therefore, failure to obtain all needed information and evidence in support of your claim can be fatal to your appeal once it reaches review by a court.

Next, there are strict deadlines that individuals must follow in order to pursue their long-term disability claims. Typically, claimants have 180 days or six months in which to file their appeal. Failure to meet these important deadlines for the various levels of appeal can result in a complete inability to further pursue your claim for benefits.

You also may be unaware of the importance of experts and their professional opinions in the contact of long-term disability claims. For example, functional capacity evaluation reports and vocational expert reports by qualified professionals can be essential to a successful long-term disability benefits claim. These reports can give the insurance company a much clearer picture of the limitation that you suffer as a result of your medical conditions, as well as your ability to adapt to different types of work. Long-term disability claims are complex matters that require intensive knowledge of ERISA requirements and appellate procedures. As a result, you will need experienced legal representation and advice to pursue an ERISA-governed disability claim. Bonnici Law Group is a law firm focusing on ERISA long-term disability benefits and bicycle injury cases in San Diego, CA. When you need effective legal representation, contact Bonnici Law Group at 858-261-5454 or email us at help@bonnicilawgroup.com. 32ebccbd