Why Is It Important to Keep All Your Records For Disability Insurance?
Your disability claim was approved and you now receive the benefits you deserve. Think you’re in the clear? One would think so!
It is incredibly important to gather and keep thorough records of your disability. This includes but is not limited to:
- copies of all of your medical information
- copies of all correspondence from and to your insurance company
- notes of your conversations with the insurance companies and your doctors and nurses
- copies of your benefit booklet and or your insurance contract, including definitions of total and partial disability, the total amount of benefits, cost of living adjustments, automatic benefit increases, length of time benefits are payable
At Share Lawyers, we recommend that you keep the most thorough records possible, even if you already receive benefits. Many insurance companies will try to deny your claim or terminate your benefits. They will go to great lengths to prove that you are not disabled, so it’s always prudent to be prepared to fight for your benefits.
IMPORTANT TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR RECORDS:
- Document Everything!
You may develop or discover new physical limitations as you age. Bring them to your physician’s attention as soon as possible for documentation. This is important because you may require new medication, your symptoms may indicate that your condition is worsening, and a medical record is less likely to be challenged than your own account of your limitations.
- Keep a File Folder
Store your disability documents in one place. We advise that you keep an organized file folder in a safe place. Be sure to let a trusted family member know where you have put the documents so they can find them if necessary.
- Be a Copycat
Make copies of all of your disability-related files keep the originals. Store any duplicates in a second location in case anything happens to the originals. This may sound excessive, but in this case, it is much safer to be over-prepared.
- Document Daily Life Changes and Limitations
Disabilities affect your day to day life in major ways. Be sure to document what you have changed about your routine and leisure. It will help you demonstrate the impact of your disability on your life. A good way to record these changes is to inform your doctor and request that they take note of the changes.
- Continue Keeping Up to Date
Insurance companies monitor you and insist on periods of review, often looking for loopholes to terminate your benefits. If you find yourself under review, expect requests for updated medical records from your insurer. Keep thorough records to protect your benefits and keep your records up-to-date, accurate, and complete.
Has your insurance company denied your claim or requested to review your benefits? Contact Share Lawyers and put our experience to work for you.
We offer free consultations and there are no fees unless we win your case. Find out if you have a disability case.
