You’ve enjoyed working over the years and have done so full time. You’d like to continue to work, but unfortunately, your body will not allow it. How are you going to pay your bills and get by each day without earning a regular income?
One option you may have is to apply for ERISA disability benefits. Having employer-sponsored disability insurance can offer some protection of wages if you need to take time away from work for your injury or illness. However, ERISA claims are not straightforward, and if your application goes wrong in the first instance, an appeal might be difficult.
Something that will help your case is having the relevant medical evidence of your condition and how it impacts your life. Outlined below are some important factors to consider.
Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
Throughout the process of your claim, the insurance provider will be looking for evidence that your long-term health condition impacts your ability to work. They may carry out a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) with the help of a medical professional. The aim of this is to assess how your condition impacts your mobility, physical wellness, mental health and ability to work.
Diagnostic records
Your own testimony will be valuable to your claim, but your word alone will not be enough. You’ll need to show that you have sought medical treatment and obtained an accurate diagnosis. Providing records of your hospital appointments, trips to the doctor, scan results and prescribed treatments will all help to strengthen your claim.
Legal accuracy
There is also the legal side of your claim to consider. All forms must be filled in with complete accuracy, or you risk the denial of your claim. Having legal guidance behind you at each step of the process will give you the best chance of obtaining the benefits you deserve.