Life can take unexpected turns, and when a long-term disability prevents you from working, the stress of lost income and mounting bills can be devastating. If you have applied for long-term disability benefits and been denied—or if you are just starting the process—we can help get the benefits you need.
We know that insurance companies do not always play fair. They may delay your claim, deny it outright, or make the process so confusing that you do not know where to turn. Our long-term disability attorneys have spent years standing up to big insurance companies and fighting for the rights of people just like you.
We believe that no one should have to battle a disability claim while also managing the challenges of a serious illness or injury. That is why we take the burden off your shoulders, handling all legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on your health.
At Kantor & Kantor, we are people helping people and we treat every client like family. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a strategy that gives you the best chance of success.
If you need help with a long-term disability claim in Tacoma, we are ready to fight for you. Contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
What Is Long-Term Disability?
Long-term disability (LTD) insurance is a type of coverage designed to provide financial protection to people who become unable to work for an extended period of time due to an injury or illness. Unlike short-term disability insurance, which typically covers disabilities lasting up to six months, LTD insurance is intended to replace a portion of your income for an extended period.
These benefits can cover a significant portion of your income, ensuring that you and your family are supported during challenging times. However, obtaining these benefits is rarely as easy as it should be.
Reasons Why Long-Term Disability Is Denied
Insurance companies often deny LTD claims for various reasons, including:
Insufficient Medical Evidence
One of the most common reasons for denial is inadequate medical documentation to substantiate the disability. Insurance companies require comprehensive, ongoing medical records demonstrating your condition’s severity and duration. They may argue that the evidence provided does not sufficiently prove that you cannot perform your job duties.
Pre-existing Conditions
Insurance policies often have exclusions for pre-existing conditions. If the insurance company determines that your disability is related to a condition that existed before your coverage began, they may deny your claim.
Limitations and Exclusions
LTD limitations and exclusions may exclude certain conditions or injuries from coverage. Common exclusions include mental health conditions, self-inflicted injuries, or conditions resulting from substance abuse.
Administrative Errors
Clerical or administrative errors, such as missing information, incorrect forms, or missed deadlines, can result in claim denials. Even small mistakes can lead to a denial.
Lack of Objective Evidence
Insurance companies prefer objective evidence, such as test results and imaging studies, to support a disability claim. They may deny claims that rely heavily on subjective reports of pain or other symptoms.
Retaliatory Actions Against Claimants
In some cases, insurers may retaliate against claimants or their legal representatives for challenging claim denials or filing complaints, such as increasing premiums or threatening to cancel other insurance policies.
Ignoring or Misrepresenting Medical Advice
Insurers may ignore or misrepresent medical opinions and recommendations from healthcare providers to support their decision to deny benefits.
Lack of Transparency
Insurers may fail to provide clear explanations for claim denials, or the criteria used to assess disability, making it difficult for claimants to understand the reasons for the decision.
Unfair Surveillance or Investigation Tactics
Insurance companies may engage in invasive surveillance or investigation tactics, such as covert surveillance or social media monitoring, to discredit claimants’ disability claims.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor?
When you are facing the uncertainty of a long-term disability, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Here is why Kantor & Kantor is trusted by individuals throughout Tacoma:
- Experience and Expertise: With decades of collective experience in handling LTD claims, our team has the knowledge and skills to navigate even the most complex cases. We have successfully represented countless clients, securing the benefits they deserve.
- History of Achievements: We have a strong track record of success in securing benefits for our clients. Our firm has helped numerous individuals obtain the compensation they deserve, even in the face of denial or resistance from insurance companies.
- Zealous Advocacy: When it comes to advocating for our clients, we do not back down. Our attorneys are known for their tenacity and determination in fighting for our client’s rights. We will go to great lengths to ensure that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
- Compassionate Support: Dealing with a long-term disability can be emotionally and financially draining. That is why we provide compassionate support to our clients throughout the claims process. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide guidance and reassurance during this challenging time.
- Client-Centered Approach: At Kantor & Kantor, you are more than just a case number – you are a valued client and partner in the legal process. We prioritize your needs and objectives to achieve the best possible result for you and your family.
How We Can Help You
Thorough Evaluation of Your Case
Our experienced Tacoma LTD lawyers will thoroughly evaluate your case to determine the strength of your claim. We will review your insurance policy, medical records, and other relevant documentation to assess your eligibility for benefits.
Strategic Claim Preparation and Submission
Preparing and submitting an LTD claim requires attention to detail and thorough documentation. We will assist you in gathering the necessary evidence and completing the required paperwork to ensure your claim is submitted accurately and on time.
Claim Denial Appeals
If your claim is denied, we will not hesitate to challenge the decision through pre-litigation appeals. Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling and winning appeals. We will thoroughly review the denial letter, identify the reasons for denial, and develop a strong appeal strategy. Whether it involves providing additional evidence, challenging the insurer’s decision, or filing a lawsuit, we will do whatever it takes to fight for the benefits you deserve.
Litigation Support
In some cases, litigation may be necessary to secure the benefits you deserve. If the insurance company denies your claim, we are prepared to take your case to court and present a compelling argument on your behalf.
Contact Our Tacoma Long-Term Disability Attorneys
The uncertainty about your future, the complexity of LTD claims, and the stress of financial pressures can be a lot. We understand these challenges because we see them every day.
We believe that every individual deserves access to expert legal advice and representation, especially when facing such significant life changes. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your health.
Insurance companies often make the claims process difficult, denying or delaying benefits that you rightfully deserve. Our team knows their tactics, and we have the experience and resources to push back.
If you are ready to take the next step, we are here to walk that path with you. Contact our Tacoma LTD attorneys at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation and let us discuss how we can help bring clarity and resolution to your situation.
Attorney Glenn R. Kantor
Glenn Kantor is a founding partner of Kantor & Kantor LLP. As a young attorney, Glenn saw the injustice of wrongful insurance denials and created a law firm to represent individuals seeking to obtain their rightful benefits. Glenn is committed to ensure that clients receive the benefits they are entitled to under their insurance policies or group health plans. [Attorney Bio]
