You have the right to represent yourself, but is it worth the stress or high-stakes risk?
When filing a long-term disability (LTD) claim, many claimants wonder whether they can manage the process without a lawyer. The simple answer is yes, you can handle your own LTD claim. However, the real question is whether it’s practical, effective, or worth the strain.
While independently pursuing a claim isn’t illegal, it often involves overwhelming work, requiring significant time, attention to detail, and knowledge of legal and insurance procedures. For those already dealing with the physical and emotional toll of a disability, this can be unmanageable.
Beyond submitting forms and making a case, claimants must navigate dense policy language, meet strict procedural deadlines, and compile compelling evidence to support their disability. Understanding the challenges of LTD claims is critical to making an informed decision.
The Challenges of Handling an LTD Claim Alone
Filing an LTD claim is not just about advocating for yourself. You must gather, organize, and submit extensive medical documentation. You’ll need to request records from your providers, follow up to ensure those records are delivered on time, verify that providers charge reasonable fees under medical law, and confirm that the plan administrator has received records. From there, you must also analyze your insurance policy, interpret its language, and make a compelling argument that your medical records meet the policy’s definition of disability.
This process is time-consuming and detail-oriented, and any misstep can delay or derail a claim. Oversights like forgetting to submit a document or failing to follow up on a request, can result in unnecessary delays or outright denial. Additionally, claimants must adhere to the procedural rules governing claims, which are highly technical and challenging to understand without legal training. While everyone has the right to read and interpret the law, doing so effectively requires specific experience and knowledge.
For those with straightforward claims and well-documented disabilities, this may seem feasible. But even then, navigating the intricacies of policies and insurer communication can be daunting.
The Role of a Lawyer in LTD Claims
An experienced LTD lawyer does far more than submit paperwork. They provide expert counsel and anticipate and address potential issues before they arise. This expertise includes interpreting policy language, understanding relevant federal and state laws, and making legally sound arguments demonstrating why the claimant meets the policy’s definition of disability.
Lawyers also take on the administrative burden of gathering and organizing medical records and evidence. They ensure all documents are submitted on time, follow up with providers and plan administrators, and manage communication with the insurer to address delays or misunderstandings. This expertise allows lawyers to present a polished, comprehensive case that increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
One of the most significant advantages of hiring a lawyer is efficiency. Because LTD lawyers have worked on similar cases, they quickly identify pitfalls and avoid errors that could jeopardize your claim. This is particularly important in time-sensitive cases, like appeals, where claimants often have just 180 days to act. If navigating independently, this may not be enough time to understand requirements and compile documentation.
Why People Choose to Work Without a Lawyer
Some individuals choose to handle their LTD claims independently to save money. Without a lawyer, no legal fees or contingency percentages are deducted from their recovery. This may seem like the best option for those with relatively straightforward claims. Additionally, some people prefer full control over their cases and communications with the insurer.
However, cost savings can come at a significant risk. LTD claims are frequently denied due to procedural errors, incomplete documentation, or a misunderstanding of the policy’s terms. For individuals unfamiliar with the process, even minor mistakes can result in delays, reduced benefits, or outright denials. The time and emotional toll of managing a claim alone, especially for someone already coping with a disability, can outweigh any financial savings.
Conclusion
Yes, it’s possible to handle a long-term disability claim without a lawyer. However, doing so requires significant time, effort, and expertise that many claimants simply don’t have. Filing an LTD claim involves navigating complex policy language, meeting procedural deadlines, and compiling compelling evidence, all while managing the personal challenges of a disability. For most people, the strain of managing this process alone is not worth the potential cost savings.
An experienced LTD lawyer removes much of this burden, increasing your chances of success and allowing you to focus on your health and recovery. Lawyers bring a depth of knowledge and efficiency to the claims process, ensuring that deadlines are met and cases are presented in the strongest possible light. If you’re considering pursuing a claim on your own, it’s important to weigh the risks and challenges against the benefits of professional legal representation. A consultation with an LTD lawyer can clarify and help you decide the best path forward.
Don’t leave your future to chance if you’re facing an LTD claim or appeal. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you secure the benefits you deserve.