Info Library

 Clear Information About Long Term Disability Claims

The Info Library is a comprehensive educational resource for people navigating long term disability claims.

Here, you can learn how disability insurers evaluate medical conditions, occupational duties, policy language, medical evidence, appeals, benefit terminations, and litigation. Each guide focuses on a specific issue that may affect your eligibility for benefits or the strength of your claim.

Use the search feature above or browse the topic areas below.

Diagnoses

A medical diagnosis can have a profound impact on your ability to work, but not every diagnosis is evaluated the same way by disability insurance companies.

Our diagnosis guides explain how specific medical conditions may affect your eligibility for long term disability benefits, the evidence insurers typically look for, and the unique challenges claimants often face throughout the claims process.

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Occupations

Your occupation is one of the most important factors in a long term disability claim. Disability insurance companies evaluate more than just your diagnosis; they assess whether your condition prevents you from performing the material duties of your specific occupation.

Our occupation guides explore the unique demands of different professions and the evidence that can help support a successful disability claim. Whether you are filing an initial claim, appealing a denial, or protecting ongoing benefits, understanding how your occupation is evaluated is essential.

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Insurers

The insurance company handling your long term disability claim can significantly impact your experience throughout the claims process. While every insurer evaluates disability claims differently, each has its own procedures, priorities, and common reasons for delaying, denying, or terminating benefits.

Our insurer guides examine the practices of major disability insurance companies, explain the challenges claimants commonly encounter, and provide insight into the strategies that can help strengthen your claim at every stage.

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Policy Terms

Your disability insurance policy is the foundation of your claim. The language in your policy determines who is eligible for benefits, how disability is defined, what limitations or exclusions may apply, and what evidence you need to provide throughout the claims process.

Our policy guides explain the key provisions found in many long term disability policies and help you understand how your policy can affect your eligibility, benefits, and claim strategy.

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Claim Strategies

Every long term disability claim presents unique challenges, and the steps you take throughout the process can have a significant impact on your ability to obtain and maintain benefits. Understanding how disability insurers evaluate claims can help you make informed decisions from the outset.

Our claim strategy guides cover important topics such as documenting your disability, working with your treating physicians, responding to insurer requests, preparing appeals, and protecting your benefits throughout the life of your claim.

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Litigation Issues

If your long term disability claim cannot be resolved during the administrative claims process, the next step may involve litigation or mediation. Understanding how these proceedings work can help you make informed decisions about your legal options and what to expect as your case moves forward.

Our litigation and mediation guides explain important legal concepts, court procedures, settlement discussions, standards of review, and other issues that may arise after a claim has been denied or terminated.

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Strategy Appeal A Denial

Long Term Disability FAQ for Professionals and Executives

Strategy - Apply for Benefits Strategy - Leave Work Protected Strategy - Maintain Benefits Strategy - Appeal a Denial

Professionals and executives often face unique challenges in long term disability claims. Their work may involve high-level decision-making, sustained concentration, client demands, leadership responsibilities, travel, long hours, and compensation structures that include bonuses, commissions, equity, or other incentive pay.

This FAQ page explains common issues that arise in LTD claims, appeals, and litigation for high-earning professionals.


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What Medical Records Do I Need for a Successful Long Term Disability Appeal?

Strategy - Appeal a Denial Appeal

When your long term disability benefits are denied, one of the most important parts of your appeal is the medical evidence you submit. Insurance companies don't just take your word for it—they want to see consistent, objective documentation that proves your condition prevents you from working. Whether your claim is governed by ERISA or a private policy, your medical records will form the backbone of your case.

This guide explains what types of records matter most, how to strengthen your file, and why the way you present your medical evidence can make all the difference in the outcome of your appeal.  

 

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How Long Do I Have to File a Long Term Disability Appeal?

Strategy - Appeal a Denial Strategy - ERISA's Claims Procedure Regulations Strategy - Deadlines

If your long term disability benefits have been denied or terminated, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. One of the most important things to understand is that you have a limited time to file an appeal. Whether your claim falls under ERISA (the federal law that governs most employer-sponsored disability plans) or is based on a private policy, the appeal process is often your last and best chance to secure the benefits you deserve without going to court.

If you’re navigating a claim denial, understanding your rights and how to protect them can make all the difference. Below we’ll answer common questions about long term disability appeal deadlines and why it’s so important to make your appeal count. 

 

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How to Rebut New Evidence in a Long Term Disability Appeal

Strategy - Appeal a Denial Strategy - Appeal Rebuttal Strategy - Appeal Peer Reviewer

After submitting a long term disability (“LTD”) appeal through a group policy, a claimant may unexpectedly receive new reports or assessments from their insurer. These can include peer reviews, vocational evaluations, or other updated findings.

When this occurs, it’s often possible—and important—to respond. Below, we’ll explain when insurers issue new reports, what rights may apply under ERISA (the federal law that governs most group LTD policies), and how to approach this phase of the process effectively.

Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The rights described typically apply to ERISA-governed policies, which usually come through an employer. Individual policies are typically not subject to the same rules. 

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Top 5 Tactics Long Term Disability Insurers Use to Terminate Benefits

Strategy - Medical Evidence Strategy - Appeal a Denial Strategy - IME Strategy - Insurer Tactics

Introduction

Many people assume that they can relax once their long term disability (“LTD”) claim is approved.  While it’s true that winning your long term disability claim is a big hurdle, it doesn’t mean you’re entirely in the clear.  Over time, your LTD insurer will continue to re-review your file and demand proof of your ongoing disability.

LTD insurers use a number of ploys to justify cutting off your benefits after your claim is approved.  Below, the NYC long term disability attorneys at Riemer Hess will discuss the five most common tactics used by LTD insurers to terminate long term disability benefits.

 

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