Does ALS Qualify For Disability Benefits?

ALS, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive nervous system disease that weakens nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Those affected often suffer from twitches, weakness of the hands, difficulty walking, slurred speech, and more. ALS is a disease that can absolutely prevent a person from returning to work, which is why if you have ALS, you are most likely now looking into receiving long term disability benefits. Here are some of the questions you may have regarding the legal process going forward:

What is the function of long term disability insurance?

Long term disability insurance is designed to financially assist all those who find themselves unable to return to work. When you are granted disability benefits, you may request either one lump-sum payment, or monthly insurance payments. It is always best to speak with an attorney regarding which plan is best for you.

How do I know if ALS will allow me to qualify for long term disability?

You will first learn more about your plan with either your employer or insurer. From there, you will file an insurance claim within 180 days. However, you must demonstrate that you truly need these benefits in your claim. There are several qualifications you must meet before being granted disability, which is why you must hire an experienced attorney who knows how to effectively gather and present evidence as convincingly as possible. Some of the evidence you may use to prove your disability are x-rays, doctor’s notes and records pertaining to how your condition affects your daily life and how it is preventing you from returning to work, MRI’s and more.

What should I do if my claim has been denied?

If your claim has been denied, our firm will help you file an appeal within 180 days of the denial. If your appeal is also denied, you absolutely need an aggressive, knowledgeable attorney on your side. It’s not easy to attain disability insurance once your appeal has been denied, but experienced attorneys may still be able to achieve the outcome you desire.

What other medical conditions will qualify for long term disability benefits?

Some medical conditions that may also warrant long term disability benefits include the following:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Digestive tract problems
• Kidney disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Neurological disorders
• Cancer
• Vision loss or blindness
• Osteoarthritis
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Respiratory illnesses, such as COPD or asthma
• Serious back injuries

Contact our experienced firm

If you or someone you know is looking to receive long term disability benefits and needs the help of an experienced attorney, contact Walker & Hern today.

Our firm has significant experience helping people just like you retain or defend their Long Term Disability Benefits. Contact Walker & Hern for a free consultation.