Our Experienced Maryland Disability Lawyers Are Ready to Help
Did you know that around one in ten Marylanders live with a disability? According to researchers from Cornell University, almost 11 percent of non-institutionalized individuals in our state have a disability. These disabilities range from ambulatory disabilities, or mobility disabilities, to having visual disabilities.
These conditions can make it difficult for Marylanders to earn a living. This is why many adults across our state purchase disability insurance or file for veterans benefits. These disability benefits can help pay medical bills and living expenses if you are unable to work due to a disabling condition. However, claiming these benefits is not always easy. If you suffer a disabling injury, our Maryland disability lawyers are ready to give you the assistance you need. We help our clients with the following:
Types of Disability Insurance Coverage
When it comes to disability insurance coverage, the type of insurance you have will play a huge role in your claims process. If you purchased your insurance through your employer or other group, then you may have legal protections that individual policyholders do not. Here are some details that you need to know:
Employer and Group Insurance Plans
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) provides guidelines for disability coverage acquired through your employer or a group such as a union. This federal law keeps employers from neglecting their employees’ interests. Despite these protections, ERISA claims are still frequently denied. This is because the requirements and filing process can be strict and complicated.
Consulting a Maryland disability attorney can help get the benefits you need. At Tucker Disability Law we can handle ERISA claims, appeals and lawsuits nationwide. We have the experience you need to acquire the compensation you deserve.
Have more questions about ERISA? Read our ERISA FAQ to learn more about this area of disability insurance law.
Individual Insurance Plans
If your employer does not provide disability insurance, or if you are self-employed, you may wish to buy disability coverage for yourself. There are many companies that provide these policies at various price points. However, these policies are not covered by ERISA. That means Maryland’s state insurance laws govern these policies.
The state body overseeing the compliance of insurance policies sold in our state is the Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA). This state agency ensures that insurance companies follow state laws. If you have a problem with your insurer, then you can file a civil complaint with the MIA.
Despite Maryland having an entire agency dedicated to handling insurance complaints, it can still be difficult getting your disability insurance benefits. The process for filing a disability insurance claim is complex. This is why having an experienced Maryland disability lawyer by your side is so vital.
Filing a Disability Insurance Claim
The process to file a claim on your disability insurance depends on your insurance provider and policy. Before you can receive your disability benefits, you must file a claim with your insurer. Unfortunately, most insurance companies are more interested in their bottom line than providing coverage. That means your initial claim may be denied.
You can appeal this denial through the administrative process outlined in your policy. There can be several levels of appeals depending on the insurer, and if you exhaust all appeals you may need to take legal action.
Individuals who have policies through their employers will need to file an ERISA claim at the federal level. This can be complex since there are many forms to file, evidence to collect and filing deadlines to meet. Tucker Disability Law can help you at every stage during this process. We have nationwide experience helping individuals file ERISA claims, appeals and lawsuits.
Individuals that have private policies will need to file a complaint with the MIA. Tucker Disability Law cannot file this claim for you. However, our attorneys are available to give counsel and help improve your chances of a successful filing.
If you feel that your insurer has failed to handle your policy in good faith, you may also qualify for additional punitive damages.
VA Disability in Maryland
The law entitles individuals who suffered a disabling injury while serving in the United States armed forces to disability benefits. However, the process can be long and complicated.
Maryland State Resources
- Baltimore Regional Office
31 Hopkins Plaza
Baltimore, MD 21201
Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4pm
How to Win VA Disability Benefits in Maryland
A successful benefits claim filed with the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) must prove the following:
- That you currently suffer from a mental or physical disability,
- That you suffered an injury, illness or event that precipitated or aggravated an injury or disease, and
- That your condition is related to, caused by or occurred while you were serving in the military.
To prove these requirements, you must submit several forms of evidence including:
- Medical Records
- Discharge or Separation Papers
- Supporting Statements from Fellow Service Members or Family
A lawyer cannot file your application for VA disability benefits for you. You must file your claim online, through the mail or at your regional VA office.
If the VA denies your claim, you must file a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) to notify the VA that you intend to appeal. A Maryland disability attorney can assist you through the appeals process. We can help you gather the right evidence and help you file your NOD.
Cities We Serve in Maryland
Tucker Disability Law serves the entire state of Maryland. We help clients in the following cities:
- Baltimore
- Columbia
- Germantown
- Silver Spring
- Gaithersburg
- Rockville
- Bethesda
- And more
Reach Out to Our Maryland Disability Lawyers
No matter where you live in the United States, filing for disability benefits can be difficult. Do not let the complexities prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve. Call Tucker Disability Law at (866) 282-5260 or fill out our online contact form today. Our Maryland disability lawyers are here to help you make sense of the regulations that stand between you and the benefits you need.
