If you find yourself unable to work because of a disability, you might be eligible for long-term disability insurance. Disability benefits like this can be used to replace lost income and cover the basic costs of living. Finding out how to apply for long-term disability insurance is vital when you are in need of financial help after acquiring a disability. Talk to a Pennsylvania disability attorney to learn more.

How Long-Term Disability Insurance Works

Unlike short-term disability insurance, long-term disability insurance is designed for those struggling with severe disabilities that are expected to last years. Most short-term disability insurance plans last up to six months. This may work for temporary or mild disabilities but may not cover disabilities that impact income longer than six months.

Long-term disability insurance can often be accessed through an employer. However, if your employer does not offer this option, you can purchase disability insurance from a private disability insurance company. When finances are low, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides disability benefits that are funded through the government.

Private disability insurance companies and employers each have their own specific eligibility criteria for disability insurance benefits. The SSA offers two programs for disability benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs offer monthly monetary benefits to replace lost income when you can no longer work as a result of the disability.

Most long-term disability insurance programs offer these benefits for as long as your disability lasts. Some programs conduct periodic reviews of your disability to re-evaluate your need for disability benefits. They focus on whether your disability continues to prevent you from earning a basic income.

Tips for Obtaining Long-Term Disability Insurance

Obtaining long-term disability insurance is all about meeting the eligibility criteria. Find out what these eligibility rules are from your employer or the private disability insurance company you are considering applying for. If you are applying for SSA benefits, it is vital to review their eligibility requirements.

The SSA disability benefits eligibility requirements include meeting the definition of a disability and not being able to earn a basic income as a result. A disability meets the SSA definition when the disability is severe enough to either last a year or lead to an early death. Part of this definition also includes disabilities that hinder previous and future work performance.

To be considered for SSDI, you must have a certain number of work credits from your previous work history. If this is not possible, you might be eligible for SSI which requires people to make under a certain level of monthly income. Consider contacting a Pennsylvania disability lawyer to learn more. A lawyer can help guide you through the complex application process.

Call Edelstein & Nelson Today

Navigating the complex process of applying for long-term disability benefits can be confusing. Reach out to a Pennsylvania individual disability insurance lawyer if you have questions about applying for long-term disability benefits. Start by contacting Edelstein & Nelson by dialing (800) 300-0909 for a consultation today about your legal options. Our legal team is ready to help you find ways to maximize your chances of success.