If you are suffering from serious medical problems you may well be prevented from working. Various laws and insurance programs have been created to provide a level of protection for people unable to do their jobs because of serious medical issues. Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of their rights to these different disability benefits. To help you to better understand what you may be entitled to, here are 4 things you must realize about long-term disability in Arizona.
Long-term disability in Arizona may be available through several programs
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits through two different programs- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDIB). Employers may also offer disability insurance and the various government plans, such as are available through the Arizona State Retirement System or the City of Phoenix, provide disability insurance benefits. Also, you may have a personal disability policy.
Your right to make a disability claim is likely protected by law
Employer-provided disability plans are usually established under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Arizona law protects your right to make claims through the retirement system and the Industrial Commission of Arizona is the agency that oversees Arizona workers’ compensation claims by establishing rules and holding hearings on disputed issues. . Finally, the Social Security Administration has a process for presenting claims and appealing denied claims.
Not every medical condition will allow you to qualify for disability benefits
Your benefits policy should clearly outline what is covered if you have private or group insurance, while the SSA and the State of Arizona have laws and rules that establish what is necessary to present a valid claim. There are also lots of cases that have been decided by the Courts that control both the procedures and evidence that establish a valid claim. .
There is a high denial rate for benefits claims
Because of attempts to avoid fraud, as well as reluctance on the part of some insurers to pay as promised, many legitimate claims are denied. It is, therefore, important to know what you must prove and to attempt to do so in order to prevail on your claim.
Contact A Disability Rights Lawyer
These are just a few of the essential facts to realize about long term disability benefits. Whenever you are disabled and hoping to obtain long-term disability in Arizona, it is advisable to contact an experienced disability rights lawyer to learn more about the benefits available and your rights under the law. Call Schiffman Law Office, P.C. at (602) 235-0539 for a free consultation now!
