Question

Can Lincoln Financial offset my LTD benefits by not only my SS payments but my ex-wife's as well?

Asked on May 7th 2016 by Glen
My wife and I have been separated for over a year. I receive Social Security Disability and my wife receives an associated payment from Social Security Disability for our daughter. Lincoln Financial reduces my Long Term Disability payment by the amount I receive from SS as well as the amount my wife receives. I understand deducting the amount I receive but can they legally deduct the money my wife receives when we’re legally separated or divorced?

Answer

Answered on May 10th 2016 by Attorney Stephen Jessup

Glen, if the policy indicates they can offset the SSDI amount your dependent receives on account of your disability then they would have a right to offset. Your situation is unfortunately all too common. Another potential is if you are paying court mandated child support you could review with that court to determine obligations based on the fact your dependent is receiving money due to your disability.