How To File a Long-Term Disability Claim in Georgia

If you’re dealing with an illness or injury that prevents you from working for an extended period, the resulting financial stress can quickly become overwhelming. Long-term disability (LTD) insurance can help in this situation by replacing a portion of your income while you’re unable to work. However, the claims process can be confusing and demanding, particularly when you’re also trying to manage medical appointments.

The good news is that an experienced attorney can explain how to file a long-term disability claim in Georgia and take charge of preparing and filing it. Contact The Scott Pryor Law Group for a free consultation.

Understanding Long-Term Disability Insurance in Georgia

Long-term disability insurance is designed to provide income replacement when a medical condition prevents you from working for an extended period, typically longer than 90 days. You can obtain LTD coverage through an employer-sponsored group policy or purchase a policy independently. LTD coverage is regulated by both federal and state law, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) for employer plans.

While specific policies vary, LTD policies typically pay a percentage of your pre-disability income, usually between 50 and 70 percent. In addition to income replacement, these policies may include other forms of support that can help you maintain financial stability during recovery.

Long-term disability insurance typically provides:

Monthly benefit payments to replace a portion of lost income
Continued coverage for certain benefits, such as health insurance or retirement contributions
Vocational rehabilitation services to help you return to suitable work when medically possible

Determining Your Eligibility for Long-Term Disability Benefits

Before you file a long-term disability claim, it’s important to confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria outlined in your policy. Each insurance plan defines “disability” differently. Whether you’re eligible generally depends on your medical condition, your employment status, and the length of time you’ve been unable to work.

Most LTD insurance policies require claimants to meet several common criteria before the insurer will approve benefits. You may be eligible for long-term disability benefits if:

You have a qualifying medical condition that prevents you from performing your job duties
Your disability has lasted (or is expected to last) beyond the waiting period (often 90 or 180 days)
You had an active LTD policy when your disability began
Your doctor has provided medical evidence supporting your inability to work
You are receiving appropriate medical treatment and following your doctor’s recommendations

Essential Documentation Needed Before Filing Your Claim

Building a strong LTD claim starts with gathering the right documentation. Insurance companies rely heavily on written evidence to determine eligibility and benefit amounts, and the more documentation you’re able to provide, the stronger your claim is likely to be. Some of the documentation you’ll need to gather includes:

Medical records and test results
Statements from treating physicians
Employer verification of job duties and income
Pay stubs or tax records showing earnings
A completed claim form and policy documents
Treatment plans or rehabilitation notes

Organized, up-to-date documentation can go a long way toward preventing unnecessary delays or denials. Keeping copies of everything you submit also ensures you have a complete record if you run into challenges with your claim or need to appeal a denial.

Step-by-Step Process to File a Long-Term Disability Claim in Georgia

Filing an LTD claim involves a specific set of steps, each of which affects how quickly and successfully your insurer processes your claim. Following the correct procedure and working with an experienced Georgia injury attorney can help you avoid some common mistakes and strengthen your application from the start. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to file your LTD claim:

Review Your Policy Carefully – Read your LTD policy to understand the insurer’s definition of “disability,” the waiting period, the required forms, and any exclusions or limitations that may apply to your specific condition.
Notify Your Employer or Insurer – Most policies require written notice of your disability within a specific timeframe. Notify your employer’s human resources department or the insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claims process.
Consult an Experienced Attorney – A knowledgeable long-term disability attorney can explain your rights under state and federal law, help you gather persuasive medical evidence, and communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. Legal representation can be especially valuable in ERISA-governed cases, which involve strict procedural rules.
Collect All Supporting Documents – Gather your medical records, test results, doctor statements, and employment verification forms that clearly show your condition prevents you from working.
Complete and Submit the Claim Forms – Fill out all forms thoroughly and accurately. Incomplete or inconsistent information can delay the review of your claim and may lead to denial.
Follow Up with Your Doctor – Ensure your treating physician understands your condition’s impact on your ability to work and provides detailed, consistent medical opinions.
Keep Detailed Records – Maintain copies of every document you send or receive, including correspondence with your medical providers and insurer.

Submitting a complete, well-documented claim – and staying organized throughout the process – can help strengthen your likelihood of receiving timely LTD benefits.

Timeline: What to Expect After Filing Your LTD Claim

After you file your long-term disability claim, the review process can take several weeks or months, depending on your policy and the insurer’s procedures. Every case is unique, and factors such as the quality and volume of medical evidence, your specific policy terms, and response times can all affect how long the decision takes. Some claims are approved quickly, while others require additional documentation or an appeal. Staying patient, organized, and responsive to requests for information can help move your claim forward more smoothly.

Contact The Scott Pryor Law Group Today

If an injury or illness is keeping you away from your job, your long-term disability coverage can help cover some of your expenses while you focus on your physical recovery. The Scott Pryor Law Group can provide the legal support you need at every stage of the claims process, from preparing and filing the paperwork to fighting for your best interest during insurance negotiations or appeals. Contact our Georgia office today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Scott Pryor

Managing Attorney | CEO

Scott is a U.S. Marine Veteran. He is a member of the State Bar of Georgia and is listed in the top 1% of trial attorneys in the nation by the Litigator Awards. He is also a member of Super Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers, the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association—Champion Level and sits on the Communications Committee of GTLA and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.