How do I know when it is the right time to file a claim for disability insurance benefits?

Most working professionals who suffer from disabling conditions struggle with the making the decision of when to stop working and file for disability. Many are unsure whether their condition will qualify them for benefits, and what will be the effect if they stop working, file a claim, and are denied. The answer is not always easy, and it’s not one an individual should make on his/her own.

Discuss your claim with your doctor

That being said, the first step in making the decision, and preparing to file your claim for disability insurance benefits is to discuss your condition with your physician on a regular basis. It is imperative that you make the decision regarding your ability to work with your doctor. If you choose to stop working without your doctor’s recommendation or approval, the insurance company may hold it against you and could deny your claim on that basis, alleging you made the decision to stop working on your own, without a medical basis for doing so.

Give your doctor a list of your job duties

When you discuss your condition with your physician, it is important that you provide him/her with your specific job duties, and explain why your condition prohibits you from performing those duties effectively and/or consistently.

Make sure your doctor documents your discussions in your medical records

Make sure to ask your physician to document these discussions in your medical records. If your medications have disabling side effects, make sure your doctor documents those side effects in his notes.

Your physician’s support can make or break your chances of getting your claim paid.

You can let your physician know that the insurance company will be contacting his office for his opinion about your condition.