Many believe that disability insurance is reserved for people with dangerous jobs. After all, blue-collared workers face greater physical safety hazards.
The term “disability,” however, goes beyond physical conditions — it covers mental disabilities, too. White-collared workers, whose jobs rarely entail physical dangers, are still prone to cognitive decline that could compromise their ability to work.
As long-term disability lawyers in Los Angeles, Haffner Law is an advocate of getting workers the protection they need. We’ll walk you through the importance of disability insurance to workers in an office or administrative environment.
Mental Disorders Covered by Disability Benefits
Disability benefits cover a wide range of mental disorders. Section 12 of the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book details the nine categories of mental disorders covered. These are:
- Affective Disorders
- Anxiety Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Mental Retardation (IQ of less than 60, or an IQ or less than 70 combined with other conditions)
- Organic Mental Disorders
- Personality Disorders (Autistic thinking, inappropriate hostility, aggressiveness, and others)
- Psychotic Disorders (Paranoia, Schizophrenia, and others)
- Somatoform Disorders
- Substance Abuse
Other mental conditions that could qualify are Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, and more.
These diseases exhibit a wide range of symptoms. In some cases, manifestations could be so extreme that it could prevent people from performing in the workplace. Whether you make small-scale decisions or you’re in the C-suite, disability benefits protect you in case your mental condition prevents you from making a living.
Short- and Long-Term Benefits
There are two kinds of disability insurance policies: short-term and long-term. Short-term insurance, as the name suggests, covers a limited period — usually around three to six months. In Los Angeles, short-term policies could last up to a year. They are the less expensive alternative, but you could not guarantee that it would keep up with your expenses.
Long-term insurance, meanwhile, covers your needs for as long as your disability lasts and are much more expensive. It may also take a few months before you could receive its benefits. Policy-holders can rest assured, however, that this type of insurance can cover your expenses, even if they extend for years.
Denying Mental Disability Claims
The difficult thing about applying for mental disability insurance is proving you have the condition. Individuals unfamiliar with the condition could even pass judgment according to looks — and insurance companies could be susceptible to the same perceptions.
Here are the common reasons insurers deny mental illness claims.
- Insufficient Medical Proof – Insurance companies can deny your claim if you lack evidence that you’re diagnosed with a mental illness and that it hampers your ability to work.
- Failure to Get Appropriate Treatment – The claim may be terminated if there’s evidence that the claimant refuses treatment or medication.
- Evidence Contradicting Your Claim – Insurance companies could investigate the claimant and deny the claim if they find evidence that contradicts his or her mental illness.
Getting the Protection You Need
Some insurance companies could take advantage of claimants who aren’t familiar with mental disability claims. These unfair denials prevent the claimant from living comfortably and getting the help they need.
If you’re having trouble receiving your benefits, or if you want to appeal the denial of your mental disability claim, then turn to our competent Los Angeles disability lawyers. Haffner Law has been fighting for the interests of people with disabilities for years. We guide you through the process of filing a claim and help you get your benefits.
Contact us today for an obligation-free consultation.
(This is an attorney advertisement by Joshua Haffner)
