Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What “Totally Disabled” Actually Means In Your Florida Long-Term Disability Policy
If you are filing for long-term disability benefits in Florida through your employer, you may assume that having a serious medical condition and being unable to work is enough to qualify. However, in most cases, it is not that simple. Whether you receive benefits depends heavily on how your policy defines the words “totally… Read More »
Five Common Mistakes Doctors Make That Can Result In Denied Long-Term Disability Benefits In Florida
Doctors spend years training to assess complex medical situations. However, when it comes to their own long-term disability claims, that clinical confidence can become a liability. Physicians are among the most likely professionals to make preventable mistakes when filing for disability benefits, and those mistakes can cost them months or years of income replacement… Read More »
Your Florida Long-Term Disability Claim Was Denied For A Pre-Existing Condition. Now What?
Receiving a long-term disability denial letter is stressful under any circumstances. When the denial is based on a pre-existing condition, it can feel even more discouraging, especially if you believe your current condition has little to do with your medical history. The good news is that many denials based on pre-existing conditions are successfully… Read More »
Social Security Disability Benefits Approved? Preparing For Continuing Disability Reviews In Florida
Getting Social Security disability benefits in Florida is a hard-won victory. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) periodically reviews approved cases to ensure that recipients continue to meet the medical requirements. These reviews are called Continuing Disability Reviews (CDR). Our experienced Jacksonville Social Security disability lawyer helps clients in these cases and explains how… Read More »
Can A Florida Employer Cancel Your Long-Term Disability Coverage?
If you receive long-term disability insurance through your job, you count on that coverage to be there when you need it. Unfortunately, this is often not the case. Florida employers can cancel or change your LTD policy under certain circumstances, with little notice. It’s a frustrating situation and can put both your health and… Read More »
Can Other Income Reduce Your Florida Long-Term Disability Benefits?
If you are receiving employer-provided long-term disability (LTD) benefits, you may assume that any additional income you receive on top of those payments is yours to keep. Unfortunately, that assumption can be costly. Most LTD policies contain offset provisions that allow the insurer to reduce your monthly benefit dollar-for-dollar based on income from other… Read More »
Understanding How ERISA Applies To Long-Term Disability Claims In Florida
If your employer provides long-term disability coverage, you may think that a disabling condition is all it takes to start receiving benefits. Unfortunately, the reality is far more complicated. Insurers frequently denied claims, and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) governs the appeals process. Understanding how ERISA applies to disability claims is important… Read More »
Florida Social Security Disability Claims: Should I See A Specialist?
When a serious health condition prevents you from working, filing for Social Security disability may be one of the most important financial steps you can take. Unfortunately, even if you meet the eligibility requirements, getting benefits is harder than most people expect. The Social Security Administration (SSA) denies nearly two-thirds of all initial disability… Read More »
How Florida Nurses And Healthcare Workers Can Fight Long-Term Disability Denials
Nursing is among the most physically and emotionally demanding professions in the country. Health care workers in general face high rates of musculoskeletal disorders, chronic illnesses, and other conditions that can impact their health and prevent them from working. Employer-provided long-term disability insurance helps protect against financial losses, but healthcare worker claims are often… Read More »
Paper Reviews Vs. Independent Medical Exams In Florida Long-Term Disability Claims
If you’ve filed a long-term disability (LTD) claim in Florida, you may expect the insurance company to evaluate your condition based on your doctor’s records. However, you may find your claim denied based on a review by someone who has never examined you, or after being sent to a doctor chosen by the insurer…. Read More »