Disability insurance is a type of insurance that will provide income in the event that you are unable to work and earn money due to illness or a disability.
There are many types of disability insurance for which you may be eligible, including the following:
- Long-term disability
- Short-term disability
- Social Security disability
- State disability
- Workers’ Compensation
You may need disability insurance during your working lifetime if you ever become unable to work. While many people may think that the worst-case will never happen, sometimes it does, and that is where this type of insurance is important to have.
There are several ways you may obtain disability insurance. You may sign up for disability coverage at work, or your employer may offer the opportunity for you to purchase the insurance yourself through the company’s insurance program.
Many professional associations offer disability insurance at a group rate, which is usually less expensive. And of course, you may also purchase your own disability insurance through an insurance broker or directory from an insurance company.
If you are waiting on a decision on your disability status, you do have coverage options. You may apply for Medicaid, or a private health plan through the Marketplace. While states are working to shorten the length of time it takes to receive a decision, it still may be a lengthy process.
It may be difficult to prove your disability if there is a lack of medical evidence in your file. This is when a disability examiner will usually schedule a consultative exam with a private physician. While these physicians are not employed by Social Security, they do get paid for the exams.
If you feel that you have been unfairly denied disability benefits, contact an attorney to look at your case.
If you have legal questions, please consult our Online Legal Directory to find an attorney in your area.