Disability insurance covers the opportunity cost someone experiences after an unexpected disability. Citizens can get disability insurance through private insurance companies, or they can file for federally-funded disability insurance through the Social Security office.

If you experience a disability, you need to make use of disability insurance in order to pay the bills. When a claim gets denied, it can be devastating. However, a denial isn't necessarily the end of the road. If you got denied your disability claim, contact a disability insurance lawyer today to learn about your options. 

Disability Insurance Requirements 

Private disability insurance policies typically have three important components: 

• Elimination period - the time between injury and when the policyholder can file a claim
• Benefit period - duration of time the policyholder will receive benefits
• Definition of "disability" - what qualifies as a disability 

Policies with high premiums have more favorable terms, while policies with low premiums have less favorable terms, making it harder to qualify. 

Federal Social Security Disability Insurance has strict conditions. For example, private disability claims may cover partial or short-term disability, but Social Security does not. However, Social Security typically continues until the disabled party can qualify for their social security at the age of 62. 

How to Appeal a Disability Insurance Decision

Follow these tips to challenge the ruling when a disability insurance claim gets denied: 

Step One: Collect Evidence

In many cases, the authorities deny a claim for insufficient evidence. Look back at all your documentation of the incident and the subsequent injury to see if you missed any important documentation. 

Step Two: Contact a Lawyer 

You will need a lawyer to help you through the appeal process. The lawyer will examine your denial letter and your evidence to determine if you have a case. If you have a case, they will guide you in how to behave as you file the appeal. 

Many disabled citizens can't afford to hire a lawyer, especially if their disability prevents them from working. Many disability insurance lawyers will take on the case with the understanding that you will pay them out of your disability compensation if you win. 

Step Three: File a Formal Appeal 

Your lawyer will move forward with a formal appeal after they approve your case. The Social Security office allows four opportunities for appeal before the case gets thrown out completely: 

• Request reconsideration
• Hearing with a judge 
• Review of the hearing decision
• File federal district court action

For more information, contact a local disability insurance attorney.