Question
What is the difference between long-term disability and life insurance disability? What can I do to make SunLife expedite my claim? Is it OK if I file for Social Security benefits while I am waiting?
I have been out of work since August 2016. I had to wait until November to get my hip replacement since I was taking Cortisone shots, they wanted to wait until the fluid was all gone. Here it is February 25 2017, I filed for long term disablity and I have not received anything. They’re stating they’re still reviewing my claim. I just received a letter from Sun Life financial stating they are reviewing my claim to determine my eligibility for life insurance disability benefits (waiver of premium) under the company group life insurance. They stated they are coordinating with their long-term disability department for additional information. What is the difference between long-term disability and life insurance disability ? What can I do to make them expedite my claim? Is it OK if I file for Social Security benefits while I am waiting? I have exhausted all my money, have borrowed from family and friends just to keep my head above water.
Answer
Barbara, when did you file your claim? Typically a response is made within 60 days of same. With respect to the Life insurance policy – Sun Life is reviewing whether you meet the definition of disability as it relates to the Waiver of Premium. Under a life insurance policy to be eligible for waiver of premium due to disability is typically reviewed under a more stringent standard than for long term disability. You can certainly file for SSDI now. Please feel free to contact our office if you’d like to discuss your claim further.
