Can You Get Long-Term Disability for Long COVID Symptoms?

The lingering effects of COVID-19, often referred to as “long COVID,” have left thousands of individuals across Pennsylvania unable to work for extended periods. Symptoms such as chronic fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and severe joint pain can make it impossible to return to daily routines, let alone maintain full-time employment.

For many, pursuing long-term disability benefits is the only way to secure financial stability. But can you qualify for long-term disability (LTD) benefits for long COVID symptoms? The short answer is yes, but the process can be difficult, especially without guidance from a skilled Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer.

Understanding Long COVID and Its Impact

Doctors and researchers are still learning about long COVID, but one fact is clear: it can be disabling. Even after the initial infection clears, long haulers often face conditions that interfere with concentration, energy, and physical endurance. In Philadelphia, workers across industries, from health care professionals at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital to service workers near Reading Terminal Market, have found themselves sidelined by symptoms that won’t go away.

Some of the most commonly reported long COVID symptoms that may justify a long COVID disability claim include:

• Chronic fatigue: Debilitating tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest.
• Respiratory issues: Persistent shortness of breath or reduced lung function.
• Cognitive impairment: “Brain fog,” memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating.
• Neurological or cardiovascular complications: Ongoing headaches, dizziness, or irregular heartbeats.

When these symptoms make it impossible to sustain employment, LTD benefits may be available.

Filing a Long COVID Disability Claim

Insurance companies often demand extensive proof that your symptoms are severe enough to prevent you from working. Unlike visible injuries, long COVID symptoms can be harder to document. This makes medical evidence critical.

To strengthen an LTD post-COVID claim, it helps to gather:

• Detailed medical records: Notes from specialists at hospitals like Penn Medicine documenting symptoms and treatment.
• Diagnostic tests: Pulmonary function tests, MRIs, or lab results supporting your condition.
• Physician statements: Letters from your treating doctors confirming your inability to work.
• Personal documentation: Journals or logs describing daily struggles, fatigue, or cognitive lapses.

The more comprehensive your evidence, the harder it becomes for insurers to argue against your claim.

Challenges With LTD Claims for Long COVID

Despite strong medical evidence, many claimants encounter denials. Insurance companies may argue that symptoms are subjective, temporary, or insufficiently disabling. This is especially common with ERISA long-hauler denial cases, where strict federal laws govern employer-sponsored disability plans.

Some common tactics insurers use include:

• Demanding “objective evidence” even when none may exist for certain symptoms.
• Minimizing the severity of fatigue or brain fog by comparing it to normal tiredness.
• Using surveillance or social media to argue that a claimant is more active than reported. In other words, they can use social media to deny your claim.
• Requiring Independent Medical Exams that may result in biased assessments.

Without strong legal advocacy, many valid claims are unfairly denied or delayed.

How a Philadelphia Disability Insurance Lawyer Can Help

Navigating LTD post-COVID claims is not something most people should face alone. An efficient Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer can guide you through every stage of the process:

• Reviewing your policy to determine eligibility and coverage.
• Coordinating with doctors and specialists to gather persuasive medical evidence.
• Handling communications and appeals if your claim is denied.
• Representing you in ERISA long-hauler denial cases to fight back against insurer tactics.

Local knowledge also matters. For example, if your case proceeds in federal court, it may be heard at the James A. Byrne U.S. Courthouse in Center City Philadelphia, just steps away from City Hall. A lawyer familiar with the region’s courts and medical networks can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Consult With a Disability Insurance Lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson

Long COVID is a real condition, and its effects can leave hardworking individuals unable to earn a living. If you are struggling with ongoing symptoms and need to file a long COVID disability claim, know that help is available. Whether you are facing an LTD post-COVID denial or battling an ERISA long-hauler denial, having strong legal representation can give you the best chance at securing the benefits you need.

At Edelstein Martin & Nelson, our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for your rights. Call us today at (215) 731-9900 to schedule a free consultation with a Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer who understands the challenges long haulers face.