Understanding Lincoln Financial Disability Insurance
Lincoln Financial Group, established in 1905 and headquartered in Radnor, Pennsylvania, is a Fortune 250 company offering a range of insurance products. Through its Short Term and Long Term disability insurance policies, Lincoln Financial helps provide income protection when medical conditions prevent individuals from working. However, navigating the claims process can sometimes be challenging.
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Lincoln Financial Short Term Disability
Lincoln Financial Short Term disability (often referred to as “Lincoln Short Term disability”) provides weekly income replacement for a limited period following a qualifying disability. Typically, benefits begin after an elimination period, often around seven days, although this may vary based on your employer’s plan. The benefit amount generally reflects a percentage of your usual weekly income, subject to a maximum cap specified in your policy.
Important Considerations
It’s essential to carefully review your policy to understand what constitutes a disability under its terms, the applicable elimination period, and any conditions or exclusions. This can help ensure you are prepared should you need to file a claim.
Lincoln Financial Long Term Disability
Lincoln Financial Long Term disability (sometimes called “Lincoln Financial Long Term disability” or “Lincoln Long Term disability”) offers monthly benefits after a longer elimination period, which can range from 90 to 180 days. Depending on the policy, benefits may continue for several years or up to retirement age, typically 65.
Understanding Long Term Disability Challenges
Some claimants report experiencing difficulties such as delays in processing, requests for additional documentation, or denials. Being aware of these potential challenges can help you be proactive in managing your claim.
Filing a Disability Claim With Lincoln Financial
You can submit a disability claim online, by phone, or by sending the necessary forms via mail or fax. Typical requirements include:
- Completed employee, employer, and physician statements
- Authorization to release medical information
Submitting a complete Lincoln Financial disability claim form is essential to avoid unnecessary delays. You can file your claim directly through Lincoln Financial’s online claim tool.
Why Disability Claims May Be Denied
- Insufficient medical documentation
- A determination that the medical condition does not meet the policy’s definition of disability
- Pre-existing condition exclusions
- Discrepancies in reported activities
Understanding these potential issues can help you submit a stronger initial claim.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied
If your disability claim is denied, Lincoln Financial will provide a letter explaining the reasons and detailing your appeal rights. It’s important to review the denial letter carefully, note the deadline for filing an appeal, and complete the appeals process before considering legal action.
How Osterhout Berger Daley Represents Clients in Lincoln Financial Disability Appeals
At Osterhout Berger Daley, our attorneys assist clients in navigating the appeals process by reviewing denial letters and claim files, gathering comprehensive documentation, advising on additional evaluations if needed, and ensuring complete and timely appeal submissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Lincoln Financial deny my Long Term disability claim?
Lincoln Financial may deny a Long Term disability claim for several reasons, such as insufficient medical documentation, a determination that your condition does not meet the policy’s definition of disability, or application of a pre-existing condition exclusion. It’s important to carefully review your denial letter to understand the specific reason and consult with an experienced attorney to evaluate your options for appeal.
How long will I receive Long Term disability benefits from Lincoln Financial?
The length of time Long Term disability benefits last with Lincoln Financial depends on the Terms of your specific policy. In many cases, benefits may continue for several years or until retirement age, which is often age 65 or 67. Some policies may have maximum benefit durations or other limitations that can affect how long you receive benefits.
How many times can I appeal a denial from Lincoln Financial?
Most Lincoln Financial Long Term disability policies allow at least one level of appeal, and some may permit more. Your denial letter will outline your appeal rights and deadlines. It is critical to follow these procedures exactly, as failing to do so may limit your ability to pursue further legal action.
How long does the Lincoln Financial disability appeal process take?
The timeline for a Lincoln Financial disability appeal generally takes about 45 days after submission, although the company may request an extension for an additional 45 days in certain situations. Keeping organized records and working with a knowledgeable attorney can help keep the process on track and avoid unnecessary delays.
How can Osterhout Berger Daley help with my Lincoln Financial disability appeal?
Osterhout Berger Daley provides end-to-end support for clients appealing a Lincoln Financial disability denial. Our team helps you gather essential medical and occupational evidence, prepares a detailed and persuasive appeal, ensures timely submission, and offers guidance on additional steps to strengthen your case. Our objective is to help you build the strongest appeal possible to maximize your chances of securing benefits.
Get Help Today
OBD can represent clients in disputes with insurance companies nationwide. Learn more about attorney Erik Berger, Esq. and how he can assist with your case.
If you’ve experienced a disability claim denial or need assistance with your Lincoln Financial disability appeal, contact Osterhout Berger Daley for a consultation. We are here to help you understand your options and advocate for your rights.