Attorneys for Your Texas Disability Insurance Claim
If you are a resident of Texas and would like assistance with your short or long-term disability benefits claim, ERISA denial, long-term care, life insurance, or accidental death policy, there are several things you need to be aware of. Regardless of what stage of the claim process you are currently in, it’s usually best to consult a disability lawyer and carefully go through your options before you file a disability benefits claim, appeal, or lawsuit. In addition, it’s essential to have an experienced lawyer who deals specifically with Texas law because certain state-specific aspects may affect the case.
When seeking assistance from a Texas disability insurance attorney, it is important to consider how much experience your lawyer has in dealing with your specific disability insurance company. At the Law Offices of Dell Disability Lawyers, we deal with every major disability company on a daily basis. We know every action that they will take. Texas is one of the few states that has attempted to level the playing field for disability insurance claimants by abolishing discretionary clauses in ERISA disability policies. Texas is a very fair state for disability claimants. Our lawyers have helped thousands of disabled individuals to recover disability benefits.
If you need attorney representation, please get in touch with us for a free phone consultation. We handle disability benefit claims at all stages: applications, appeals, and litigation of disability lawsuits. We are available to help you with any claim in the United States, and you will not be required to come to our office. If we cannot assist you, we will refer you to someone who can. We encourage you to look around our extensive website and download our free E-brochure to learn more about our legal services.
Who qualifies for long-term disability benefits in Texas?
Long-term disability benefits in Texas are usually provided through private insurance policies, not a state-run program. Qualifications for long-term disability benefits can vary depending on the specific insurance policy. To qualify for long-term disability benefits, an individual must meet criteria including medical eligibility, a waiting period, coverage under their policy, proof of disability, and meeting specific occupational requirements. It is important to review insurance policy documents and consult with experts for detailed information on eligibility and coverage.
Can I appeal if my application is denied?
Yes, if your long-term disability application is denied, you typically have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process allows you to challenge the denial and present additional evidence or arguments to support your claim. The specific steps and deadlines for the appeals process may vary depending on the insurance policy and the state laws.
What qualifies as a physical disability?
A physical disability is a condition that impairs a person’s physical functioning and mobility. It can be caused by various factors, including injury, illness, congenital conditions, or degenerative diseases. Physical disabilities can range from mild to severe and may affect different parts of the body or bodily systems.
How Do You Fight a Long-Term Disability Benefits Denial?
Here are the steps you can take to appeal a denial of long-term disability insurance benefits:
- Understand the specific reasons for the denial by reviewing the letter from the insurance company.
- Gather all relevant medical records, doctor’s statements, and any other documentation.
- Thoroughly review the long-term disability insurance policy to understand the terms, coverage, and requirements.
- Reach out to the insurance company to clarify the denial reasons and inquire about the appeals process.
- Prepare a well-structured and detailed appeal letter that addresses each reason for the denial and includes relevant evidence to counter the decision.
- Ensure that the appeal is submitted within the specified timeframe.
- Consider consulting with an experienced attorney if the appeals process becomes complicated or challenging.
- Keep doctors informed about the appeal and seek their support in providing additional evidence if needed.
- Remain persistent and patient throughout the appeals process, which may take time.
- Keep records of all communication with the insurance company.
Remember that each insurance policy and appeals process may differ, and it’s essential to follow the specific procedures outlined by your insurance company.
What percentage does short-term disability pay in Texas?
In most cases, short-term disability insurance policies pay a percentage of your pre-disability earnings during the benefit period. The percentage can range from around 40% to 70% of your average weekly or monthly earnings. The specific percentage you receive will depend on the terms and coverage outlined in your insurance policy.
To find out the exact percentage of income replacement provided by your short-term disability insurance policy, you should review the policy documents or contact your human resources department or the insurance provider directly.
Can I work part-time while on disability?
The ability to work part-time while on disability depends on the type of disability benefits you are receiving and the specific rules and regulations governing those benefits.
It’s important to review the terms and conditions of your specific disability insurance policy to determine whether working part-time is allowed and if it affects your eligibility for benefits. Some policies may have provisions that permit part-time work while still receiving disability benefits, while others may consider any income earned as a disqualifying factor.
Answers to Questions About Working With Us
I need a disability lawyer near me. Do you work in Texas?
Yes. We are a national disability insurance law firm with extensive experience and we are available to represent you regardless of where you live in Texas or anywhere else in the United States. We have partner disability lawyers in every state and we have filed lawsuits in most federal courts nationwide. Our disability lawyers represent disability claimants at all stages of a claim for disability insurance benefits, and we deal with clients who have a wide variety of medical conditions or have experienced injury. There is nothing that our lawyers have not seen in the disability insurance world, so please do not hesitate to give us a call for a free initial consultation.
What are your fees?
Since we represent disability insurance claimants at different stages of a disability insurance claim, we offer a variety of different fee options. We understand that claimants living on disability insurance benefits have a limited source of income; therefore we always try to work with the clients to make our attorney fees as affordable as possible. The three available fee options are a contingency fee basis (no attorney fee or cost unless we make a recovery), hourly fee or fixed flat rate. In every case we provide each client with a written fee agreement detailing the terms and conditions. We always offer a free initial phone consultation and we appreciate the opportunity to work with you in obtaining payment of your disability insurance benefits.
Do I have to come to your office to work with your law firm?
No. For purposes of efficiency and to reduce expenses for our clients we have found that 99% of our clients prefer to communicate via telephone, e-mail, text or an online meeting tool. If you prefer an initial in-person meeting, please let us know. A disability company will never require you to come to their office and similarly we are set up so that we handle your entire claim without the need for you to come to our office. Whether you need help with the initial application process, ERISA-governed policy issues, employer-sponsored Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance problems, insurance company denial, appeals, or litigation processes, we are happy to help remotely.
How can I contact you?
When you call us during normal business hours, you will immediately speak with a disability attorney. We can be reached at 800-698-9159 or by email. Our lawyers and staff return all client calls the same day. Client emails are usually replied to within the same business day and seem to be the preferred and most efficient method of communication for most clients.
Reviews From Texas Clients
Choosing a disability law firm to represent you in the application, appeals, or lawsuit stages is no easy task. You want to look for a law office with legal experts who have extensive experience in dealing with initial disability claims, appeals processes, and litigation, and have handled thousands of claims. It’s vital that your chosen disability lawyers of Texas have extensive legal resources, a well-earned reputation, and a high client satisfaction rate. Be sure to browse some of the client recommendations to make the best decisions:
Craig S. from Dallas
I have been extremely impressed with the Law Firm of Dell Disability Lawyers.
I submitted a form online and was contacted immediately by Mr. Jay Symonds. I explained my disability and the issues I was experiencing with my Long Term Disability Insurance and Mr. Symonds immediately confirmed why Dell Disability Lawyers was the perfect choice for me. I explained my situation and what I had experienced with LTD and Mr. Symonds immediately shared with me what he could do for me and for the first time in months, I felt at ease with what I was going through.
Mr. Symonds immediately contacted the insurance company and was able to achieve in 1 day what I hadn’t been able to achieve in Months!
To say that Mr. Symonds was my guardian angel would be an understatement. His knowledge and expertise enabled me to focus on the treatment that I needed.
His staff was always very friendly and my questions were always answered in a timely manner. Throughout this journey, Mr. Symonds and his staff have become like family to me with their support and compassion. Mr. Symonds and Sonia Nogueira have shown empathy, respect and concern for my medical condition.
It was refreshing to see my team of legal experts take immediate action when the insurance company continued to try and bypass the process. I could not have found a better team to represent me and I will always be thankful for their knowledge and expertise.
I have nothing but tremendous respect for the office staff employed at the firm of Dell Disability Lawyers. Sonia always ensured my calls and emails were returned in a timely manner and were always available to answer any questions I might have. When you receive an answer to your questions on a weekend, you know you have made the right choice!
Lori N. from Houston
I have had such a great experience working with both Rachel and her Paralegal Vanessa. They answered any question I had very quickly. They walked me through every step of appealing my long term disability case. It was a very long process and I was glad to have them there to help me. My denial decision was reversed and they are still answering all my questions. I am so thankful for Rachel and Vanessa because I know I couldn’t have done this without them.
I would recommend Dell Disability Lawyers because the attorneys and paralegals are very good at getting all of the information received from doctors and putting together a case which would be very hard for them not to win.
Russel H. from West Texas
My experience is as such. I suffer from a variety of mental health issues the biggest being severe PTSD. When I had lost all hope the Good Lord guided me to Dell Disability Lawyers. My assigned lawyer, Stephen Jessup, was the most understanding and compassionate human being I had come across since my breakdown. He not only guided me legally, but his kind words and understanding helped me spiritually as well. His co-worker, Sonia, was a heaven-send as well. Her kind words and prompt responses were amazing. Both Stephen and Sonia will never understand how blessed I am that they came in to my life at my darkest hour. Their work ethic and rigorous efforts towards my case gave me not only a win but it gave me justice and at the end of the day that’s all I wanted. I went in to this case with legal counsel and I left this with great friends. I was always informed, spoken to with the utmost respect and sincere compassion.
Stephen and Sonia, y’all are my silver lining in humanity. I’m a better person today having met you both even if only by phone and email.
I would refer Dell Disability Lawyers for the sincere compassion, work ethic and rigorous commitment to my case. Keep doing what y’all are doing.
Lenny M. from Austin
Mr Jessup explained and answered all questions and concerns I had. His communication and follow thru is outstanding. He has guided me through this process, and am so thankful for his leadership. I can’t leave out Ms. Sonia, which has been excellent in assisting me with all communications. Thanks again Steve, for all your expertise.
I would definitely recommend this firm for it’s professionalism and outstanding reputation.
Michael W. from Dallas
Dell Disability Lawyers did such a marvelous job in handling my Lump Sum Longterm Disability claim, that I have to take my hat off, and give them a standing ovation! Cesar and his assistant Michal were not only very professional, but they handled my case in a very expedient way. Both Cesar and Michal were prompt in returning my calls and answering my questions, which is rare for an attorney. Not only did they obtain the lump sum amount that was promised to me by the insurance company, but they increased the amount by a few thousand dollars.
As a man of God, I want to thank God for using Dell Disability Lawyers to resolve my case, but also for the integrity in which they showed. Thanks to the entire Dell Disability Lawyers legal team, and may God bless you to have a long and prosperous legal business!
I would recommend Dell Disability Lawyers because they not only work fast, but they uphold the promises they make.
Mickey C. from Rio Grande Valley
My experience with Dell Disability Lawyers was positive in all aspects. I called on the firm after I had appealed my disability insurance companies decision to drop my disability benefits. If I could go back, I would have let them take care of not only my appeal, but my long term disability claim from the start of my claim. I was totally satisfied with Dell Disability Lawyers.
Top 6 Disability Insurance Cases Resolved by Dell Disability Lawyers in Texas
In order to help you gain a further understanding of Texas disability insurance law our lawyers have provided some simple summaries of disability lawsuits we resolved in Texas. In addition we regularly update this page with recent court decisions, lawsuits and news regarding disability denials in Texas. We handle disability claims from the application stage through the litigation of a disability lawsuit. If you are looking for assistance for your disability insurance claim, then we always offer a free consultation to discuss your options.
Contracts Manager With Toxic Encephalopathy Wins MetLife Long Term Disability Denial Appeal — Our law firm represented a former L3Harris Technologies employee in a successful disability claim appeal against MetLife. The client had developed toxic encephalopathy, chronic fatigue, and chronic pain due to workplace mold exposure. Despite approval of her short-term disability claim, MetLife denied her long-term disability (LTD) benefits citing insufficient medical evidence. Our firm challenged MetLife’s decision by scrutinizing their medical reviews, gathering updated records, and presenting evidence from competent health providers specialized in Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and mold-related illnesses. We also provided personal testimonies and the Mold and Bacteria Building Report from the client’s workplace. Eventually, MetLife reversed their decision, granting our client back pay and continuing monthly benefits.
Prudential Overturns Disability Denial for Third Time to Insured with Cluster Headaches — A former software programmer from Texas, who suffers from debilitating Cluster Headaches, has successfully appealed against the Prudential Insurance Company for the third time with the help of Dell Disability Lawyers. Although Prudential approved his initial claims for short and long-term disability benefits, they continuously attempted to deny his claims and limit his disability benefits to only two years. Prudential incorrectly treated his Cluster Headaches as Migraines and “self-reported” symptoms rather than a valid condition. The former programmer’s legal fight spanned across three years, involving an initial approval for short-term disability, two consequent denials, and three successful appeals. Despite Prudential’s argument that his condition was based on self-report and should have resolved itself after two years, each time the lawyers managed to prove otherwise and continued his claims. If you’re struggling with your insurance carrier due to your medical condition or need assistance securing your benefits, contacting an experienced disability lawyer in Texas is a solid course of action.
Sun Life Approves Claim for Long Term Disability Benefits — Sun Life recently awarded our client long-term disability benefits thanks to the efforts of Attorney Stephen Jessup. Our client, suffering from diabetic peripheral neuropathy and unable to continue his work as a Field Service Engineer, was fearful that Sun Life would deny his claim. Upon working with Attorney Jessup, his claim was prepared with meticulous attention, highlighting his inability to work. One significant challenge was the lack of communication between the short and long-term disability claims departments of Sun Life, pending outdated medical records leading to delays in the client’s claim review. This issue was professionally handled by Attorney Jessup, who ensured Sun Life acknowledged that all required medical records had been provided timely and accurately. His persistence paid off, ensuring the claim was approved per legal timelines. Are you considering applying for disability benefits claim with Sun Life or faced with a denial? It is critical to protect your rights. Sun Life, as a large group disability insurer, is known for challenging unsupported claims. Thus, you may benefit from legal assistance from a Texas disability attorney.
After Two Appeals, Standard Approves Short & Long Term Disability Benefits for Nurse — Our client, a Senior Case Manager for United Healthcare, could not continue working due to chronic pain, frequent headaches, and cognitive dysfunction. Despite initially being denied her claim for long-term disability benefits by The Standard Insurance Co., our firm approved her claim. Attorney Palamara successfully challenged the denial, demonstrating that The Standard and its physician consultant had not adequately assessed our client’s illness and ignored substantial evidence of her chronic conditions. As a result, our client was finally recognized as disabled and received a sizable benefit check. Our firm’s dedicated and case-specific approach has successfully addressed insurance company denials, even when they incorrectly value medical evidence. This client’s case illustrated our abilities to successfully appeal and secure benefits for those who have been unjustly denied, providing them with the financial assistance they need and deserve. Attorney Palamara will continue to assist our client as she navigates her policy’s changing definition of disability.
Reliance Standard overturned its previous denial of long term disability benefits for Texas Retail Store Manager — Our law firm recently achieved success in appealing against an insurance company, Reliance Standard, on behalf of our client, Mr. S. His Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits had been wrongfully terminated on the grounds of a mental disorder, despite having physical problems stemming from multiple mini-strokes. Mr. S was a former store manager who developed physical and cognitive impairments leading him to stop working in 2017. Reliance Standard, after paying his LTD benefits for two years, abruptly denied his benefits, falsely attributing his disability to a mental disorder. Our appealing strategy highlighted the inconsistencies in their denial and we defended Mr. S’s disability as being physical and cognitive. An Independent Medical Examination, requested by the insurance company, also diagnosed Mr. S with the physical disorder – Vascular Neurocognitive disorder, strengthening our case. After nine weeks of filing the appeal, Reliance Standard reversed their decision, fully repaid the back benefits, and reinstated Mr. S’s LTD benefits. Our firm continues to safeguard Mr. S’s interests.
Liberty Mutual Approves Disability Benefits to Senior Vice President — Our law firm successfully assisted a former Senior Vice President in securing his long term disability claim, which had been unfairly denied by Liberty Mutual. Despite suffering a debilitating stroke, the insurance company used a bias vocational review to assert he was fit to work. Guided by our expertise, we were able to demonstrate our client’s disability through a Functional Capacity Examination and a detailed vocational report specific to his job description. After two months, Liberty Mutual finally approved the claim but attempted to reduce costs by insisting on a SS application. This case highlights Liberty Mutual’s misuse of discretion and conflicted interest surrounding disability benefits.
Texas Courts, Government and Texas Department of Insurance Information
- Texas Court System Official Website
- Texas Court Structure Chart
- Official Government Website of the State of Texas — Information regarding the state of Texas governmental entities resources
- Texas Department of Insurance — Regulates all insurance companies that do business in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Insurance there are more than 2,000 insurance companies that sell insurance products in Texas.
Federal Courts
- U.S. Court of Appeals (5th Circuit) — This court has jurisdiction over appeals from United States District Courts located in Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi.
Texas has four Federal District Courts, which are the Eastern, Northern, Southern and Western District of Texas Federal Courts.
Resources to Help You Win Disability Benefits
Disability Benefit Denial Options
Submit a Strong Appeal Package
We work with you, your doctors, and other experts to submit a very strong appeal.
Sue Your Disability Insurance Company
We have filed thousands of disability denial lawsuits in federal Courts nationwide.
Protect Your Benefits
Get Your Disability Application Approved
We help claimants throughout the entire application process.
Prevent a Disability Benefit Denial
We manage every aspect of your disability claim following claim approval.
Negotiate a Lump-Sum Settlement
Our goal is to negotiate the highest possible buyout of your long-term disability policy.
Disability Company Reviews
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Showing 8 of 627 Reviews
Sun Life
What a mess
This place has no idea what day it even is. First they attach my claim to my previous claim in which was a new claim. They messed up and denied me then made me wait yet ag... read more >
Reply
Sedgwick
I was disabled 2003 by SS. I got SSDI 7 years too late.
I believe if Sedgwick would have moved on my Claim. They absolutely did everything not to answer my calls, change dates. I had already been through WV comp. Ins. Sold out,... read more >
MetLife
Only care about $$$$$
PLAY THEIR GAME FIGHT FIRE WITH FIRE.....after getting a copy of the insurance policy from my HR. I nipped a lot of the headaches quickly by calling their bluff word for w... read more >
Reply
Sedgwick
They falsify documents and avoid contact as much as possible.
They avoided sending the documents needed for the claim for two weeks. I had to escalate with a call from my company's HR and Sedgwick (the only way I was ever able to get... read more >
Hartford
This company is a scam!
The Hartford does not pay claims. The Hartford only collects premiums. The Hartford doesn’t care if you are terminally ill. I’ve been employed at my employer since 201... read more >
Prudential
California State Disabilty "OFFSET" never mentioned or outlined when enrolling for STD coverage.
All terms and conditions of receiving a claim benefit not made available when enrolling. Hidden elements of eligibility... not fully transparent with issues that might eff... read more >
Sedgwick
Not getting paid
I been battling Sedgwick about my claim. I was to get paid today and I did not get paid.Sledges is the worse company I ever had to deal with. I been fighting with my b... read more >
Sedgwick
Sedgewich is the worst-immediate denial of all requests for treatment. Rubber stamps DENIED ALL RFA’s
Sedgewich immediately denies all RFA. They’re ur team are THEMSELVES not a independent medical team…
Answered Questions by Our Lawyers
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Showing 2 of 2 Answered Questions
Q: Mass Mutual Disability Insurance - Own Occupation Rider, for Dentist vs Other insurance Carrier
A: Jim, Guardian / Berkshire prior to 2021 was one of the best disability companies. They had some management cha... Read More >
Q: Can I lose my Hartford benefits if I also receive an annuity payment?
A: Fred, I am happy to hear that your claim is being paid. From the scenario you provided, I don’t believe you ... Read More >
Helpful Videos
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Showing 12 of 805 Videos
Disability Benefit Tips
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Showing 8 of 329 Benefit Tips
Disability Benefit Denial Reason #4 - Your Doctor Is Misled By the Disability Company
When you're seeking disability benefits under a long term disability policy, your medical rec... Read More >
Disability Benefit Denial Reason #3 - Video & Social Media Surveillance
One thing many long term disability claimants don't know about (or expect) from the claims re... Read More >
How Do You Fight a Long-Term Disability Denial?
Getting a denial letter from your disability insurance company is one of the ultimate insults... Read More >
Disability Denial Reason #2 - Change of Disability Definition & Vocational Review
One of the top reasons for terminating a claimant's long term disability benefits involves th... Read More >
Disability Denial Reason #1 – Paper Review & IME
At Dell Disability Lawyers, we've seen insurance companies give countless reasons to deny lon... Read More >
How to Apply for Reliance Standard Disability Benefits & Top 5 Reasons for a Claim Denial
At Dell & Schaefer we’ve handled hundreds of long term disability insurance claims against Reliance Standard, and have learned a few thi... Read More >
Applying for Standard Disability Benefits? Top 5 Claim Denial Reasons
At Dell & Schaefer, we've helped hundreds of clients recover long term disability benefit... Read More >
Guardian Disability Benefit Claim Handling Tips
When you finally receive a letter from Guardian Disability informing you that your claim for ... Read More >
Dell Disability Cases
(359)
Showing 8 of 359 Dell Disability Cases
Contracts Manager With Toxic Encephalopathy Wins MetLife Long Term Disability Denial Appeal
Our client came to us after her claim for long term disability insurance benefits was denied ... Read More >
After Two Appeals The Standard Insurance Approves Short & Long Term Disability Benefits for Nurse
Prior to filing for disability, our client was a Registered Nurse employed as a Senior Case Manager for United Healthcare. Our client was a de... Read More >
Reliance Standard overturned its previous denial of long term disability benefits for Texas Retail Store Manager
Our client, Mr. S, formerly worked as a Store Manager for a large national retail chain. In August 2016 Mr. S suffered from multiple Transient... Read More >
Liberty Mutual Approves Disability Benefits to Senior Vice President
Our client, a former Senior Vice President for a large national corporation, filed for disability after having suffered a massive stroke durin... Read More >
After Being Offered $20,908.56 in Back Benefits and Interest, Attorney Alex Palamara Helps Disabled Nurse Receive $450,213.86 plus $5,000/mo going forward Due to Regulatory Settlement Agreement
A former employee of the Visiting Nurse Association contacted our office after the Life Insurance Company of North America (aka CIGNA) sent he... Read More >
Reliance Standard Overturns Its Decision to Deny; Dell Disability Lawyers Client Will Again Receive Long Term Disability Benefits
Previously employed as a Store Manager for Victoria's Secret, our eventual client was forced to leave her position on July 8, 2009 due to nume... Read More >
Sun Life Approves Claim for Long Term Disability Benefits
Sun Life recently awarded long term disability benefits to our client following an application for benefits submitted by Attorney Stephen Jess... Read More >
CIGNA Denies Long-term Disability Benefits to Customer Service Representative with Fibromyalgia
Our client, Ms. N, had been employed with Sears Holdings as a customer service representative, before pain and discomfort from fibromyalgia an... Read More >
Disability Lawsuit Stories
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Reviews from Our Clients
