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Does a Pacemaker Disqualify You From Long Term Disability Benefits?

A pacemaker signals the heart to beat when the heartbeat is too slow or irregular. A pulse generator is a small metal case that contains electronic circuitry with a small computer and a battery that regulates the impulses sent to the heart. Pacemakers are used to treat heart rhythm disorder and related conditions such as slow heart rhythm (bradycardia), fainting spells (syncope), heart failure, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Even though they may make life more liveable, you should know that they do not remedy these conditions forever, and at some point, you might not be able to work. But how do you know if you qualify for long term disability benefits? If you need to know, please read on, then contact one of our experienced long term disability insurance attorneys to learn if having a pacemaker disqualifies you from receiving long term disability benefits.

Can you get long term disability benefits if you have a pacemaker?

Having a pacemaker installed is not by itself a qualifying condition for long term disability benefits. However, it may point to an individual experiencing serious heart health problems that, taken together, are disabling. Likewise, having a pacemaker is not a disqualifying condition. In order to qualify for long term disability benefits, you will have to prove the following:

  1. You suffer from either arrhythmias or failure after you have your pacemaker installed.
  2. One of these two medical conditions still prevents you from returning to work even after your pacemaker implant.

How do you get long term disability benefits if you have a pacemaker?

First, you will need to speak with your employer or insurer, so that you can be fully apprised of your LTD policy. Within 180 days of learning more about your policy, you will have to file your claim, collect and submit various types of information such as MRIs, x-rays, and doctor’s notes detailing the extent of your disability and how it prevents you from returning to work and any other information you believe is relevant.

Before you undertake any of these actions you would be well advised to seek the counsel of one of the qualified legal professionals from our firm. He or she will provide guidance and honest assessments of your case so that you can make informed decisions. Additionally, a seasoned legal representative can help you obtain and present all of the evidence needed to prove your case to the appropriate bodies. This process may seem simple and straightforward, but insurers are not keen on paying out policies, regardless of their holder’s eligibility. As such, you would be wise to give us a call today.

What long term disability benefits may I be entitled to?

If you are considering applying for long term disability (LTD) benefits due to a heart condition that necessitates the use of a pacemaker, it’s essential to understand the types of benefits you may be entitled to. Long term disability benefits are designed to provide you with financial support if you are unable to work for an extended period due to your medical condition.

The specifics of your entitlement will depend largely on the details of your LTD insurance policy. Generally, these benefits aim to replace a portion of your lost income, typically ranging from 50% to 70% of your pre-disability earnings. The exact percentage is determined by your policy’s terms.

In addition to income replacement, some policies may offer additional support services, such as rehabilitation programs intended to help you return to work, if possible. The duration of your benefits can vary significantly, from a few years to until you reach retirement age, again depending on your policy’s provisions.

It’s important to note that each insurance policy has its own criteria for what constitutes a disability. Thus, having a pacemaker in itself may not qualify you for benefits; rather, it’s the impact of your heart condition on your ability to perform your job that is crucial. Documentation of this impact, including medical records and statements from your healthcare providers, will be vital in establishing your entitlement to benefits.

How long will I have to file a long term disability claim?

The timeline for filing a long term disability claim can be critical to the success of your application. It’s important to act promptly and be aware of the deadlines imposed by your LTD insurance policy to ensure your claim is considered.

Typically, insurance policies require that you notify them of your intent to file a claim within a certain period after becoming disabled. This period can vary but is often 30 to 90 days from the date you believe your disability began. Following this notification, you’ll usually have a window in which to submit your full claim documentation. This window can range from 90 to 180 days after your disability starts, but specific deadlines will be outlined in your policy.

It’s crucial to adhere to these deadlines because failing to file within the required timeframe may result in your claim being denied. Additionally, there are often deadlines for appealing a denied claim, which are also essential to observe.

Contact our experienced nationwide firm

If you or someone you know is looking to receive long term disability benefits and needs the help of an experienced attorney, speak with our nationwide LTD attorneys today. Our firm has significant experience helping people just like you obtain or defend their long term disability benefits. Contact Walker & Hern for a free consultation.

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