Can You Keep Working While Applying for a LTD Claim?

One of the most common questions high-income professionals ask is about timing—when is the right moment to file a Long Term Disability Insurance Claim? Should you keep working despite physical or mental challenges? Is it better to reduce your hours to part-time? These are not just career questions—they have serious legal and financial implications.

When Continuing to Work Becomes a Risk

If your health condition poses a risk to you, your clients, or your patients, it’s time to reconsider your work duties. Professional ethics, along with malpractice or liability insurance requirements, may require you to stop certain tasks or step away from critical responsibilities. This is often the point where a Long Term Disability Insurance Claim should be considered.

Know Your Policy Inside and Out

The terms of your LTD policy will determine how and when you can file a claim. These provisions typically cover:

• The date you must document your disabling condition.
• The time allowed from the onset of disability to filing a claim.
• Whether your policy includes partial work or residual coverage.
• How your income and disability benefits will be calculated.
• The type of proof of loss required to support your claim.

Creating a personal claim timeline can help you stay compliant and avoid missed deadlines.

Should You Involve HR Early?

If your LTD policy is part of your employee benefits package, you may have an obligation to notify your HR department before filing. However, privacy laws limit the medical information they can request without your consent. An experienced Long Term Disability Attorney can guide you on what to disclose and how to protect your rights.

Why You Shouldn’t Resign Before Filing

Resigning before you file is one of the biggest mistakes people make. If you’re no longer employed, your LTD insurer has an easy reason to deny your claim, and regaining benefits after resignation is often impossible. Stay on the payroll until your benefits are secured.

If your policy is employer-provided, get a copy of the exact version in effect when you enrolled—not a newer one that might have reduced benefits. You don’t need to explain to HR why you want it; you could say your spouse or personal insurance adviser requested it.

What an Attorney Knows That HR Doesn’t

Your HR team may be helpful, but they are not specialists in LTD law. This is a unique area that blends federal benefits regulations (ERISA), insurance law, and contract law. A seasoned LTD Attorney can advise you on:

• How insurers handle claims for your specific disability.
• What to expect with monthly benefits of $5,000, $10,000, or more.
• How your age, occupation, and income sources can affect your claim.
• The likelihood of approval and the best strategies to strengthen your application.

Why Early Legal Guidance Pays Off

Think about the long-term value of your claim. If you’re in your 40s, expect to work for another 20 years, and qualify for $10,000 per month, your total claim value could reach $2.4 million. This is why insurance companies work hard to deny claims—and why you need to be just as aggressive in protecting yours.

For older professionals with substantial monthly benefits, the duration of coverage is crucial. Some policies pay for life, making them especially valuable to protect.

Protect Your Career and Your Benefits

Transitioning from work to disability benefits is a major decision. Before you act, consult with an experienced Long Term Disability Attorney who can help you navigate the process, safeguard your income, and protect your professional reputation.

If you have questions about your rights or the timing of your claim, contact Jason Newfield for a free consultation. Your career, financial security, and health are too important to leave to chance.