If you have become disabled and are no longer able to work, then you are probably concerned about a number of issues. Aside from concern regarding the condition that has caused your health to decline, you are likely worrying about income. Luckily, you have the option of filing for disability through your employer, but doing so alone could cause a great deal more worry due to lack of understanding of the process and laws. Here are some important reasons to hire a lawyer when filing a disability claim:

Strict appeals process

It is very important to keep track of exact dates when filing an Erisa disability claim. If your initial claim happens to be denied, you must file an appeal within 180 days, and if you miss the deadline, then you will have missed out. Some plans might be more lenient and allow extra time beyond 180 days, but you need to know ahead of time if your company's plan does. By having an attorney by your side who has pertinent experience, you will ensure that all deadlines are met, whether in regards to appeals or some other process.

Submitting required evidence

Most company disability plans have very stringent rules when it comes to submitting required evidence for your disability. It might seem as if a written document from a physician stating you are disabled would be sufficient; however, in most cases it isn't. A knowledgeable attorney will know exactly what type of evidence to submit as well as the specific time frame it has to be submitted in. By opting to go through the process alone, you increase your chances of making a mistake that could be detrimental to your case.

Choosing the correct type of claim

An attorney can assist you with determining the specific type of claim to file. There isn't just one general type, but instead there are group health claims, urgent care claims, and more. Differentiating between the different types of claims might be confusing, especially if you've never been through the process in the past. You employer might not have the ability to assist you with understanding the different terms and rules. 

It may seem like a simple process when it comes to filing a disability claim through your employer. However, you may be unaware of what the entire process entails, and the final decision may be made by someone outside of the location where you work. The Erisa act has created certain laws that your employer's insurance plan must abide by, and understanding these laws would be a lot easier with the assistance of an experienced attorney. 

For help with disability claims, contact a law firm such as Iler and Iler.