Understanding the Timeline: What Happens After You File a Long-Term Disability Claim?

Filing a long-term disability (LTD) claim is a significant step toward securing the benefits you need to maintain financial stability during a serious medical challenge. But what happens next can feel uncertain and overwhelming, especially when insurance companies are slow to communicate or quick to push back. Understanding the typical timeline of an LTD claim can help you prepare for what’s ahead and take proactive steps to protect your rights.

Here, our nationwide claims attorneys at Disability Insurance Law Group explain.

Step 1: Claim Acknowledgment (Within a Few Days to Two Weeks)

After you submit your LTD claim, the insurance company should send you a written acknowledgment. This generally includes a claim number, the name of your assigned claims examiner, and a summary of what additional documentation (if any) is needed. Some insurers may also send medical release forms or requests for employment verification. It’s crucial to respond to these requests promptly.

Step 2: Initial Review Period (30 to 45 Days)

Once your claim is complete with all requested documentation, the insurance company begins its formal review. This stage often takes 30 to 45 days, but may be extended depending on the policy’s language or the complexity of your condition.

During this phase, insurers evaluate:

• Your medical records.
• Your physician’s opinion.
• Your job description and occupational duties.
• Any other evidence relevant to your disability.

They may also request additional information (link to How to Respond to a Request for Additional Documentation During the LTD Review Process blog), such as updated medical records or an Independent Medical Examination (IME). These requests can delay the timeline.

Step 3: Decision Issued (Typically Within 45 Days, But May Be Extended)

By law, under ERISA, which governs most group disability policies, the insurance company must generally decide within 45 days of receiving your claim. Still, they can take up to two 30-day extensions if more time is needed. If you receive a denial, it must include specific reasons and a detailed explanation of how to appeal.

If your claim is approved, you’ll typically receive:

• A benefit start date.
• The monthly amount of your LTD payments.
• Instructions for ongoing documentation.

Step 4: Ongoing Evaluation

Even after approval, LTD claims are not “set and forget.” Insurance companies regularly review your medical condition, treatment plan, and functionality.

You may need to provide:

• Periodic medical updates.
• Continued proof of treatment.
• Evidence that you are still unable to work.

Failure to comply with these requests could result in delayed or discontinued benefits.

When to Get Legal Help

If the process feels unnecessarily drawn out or encounters delays, denials, or bad faith tactics, having an experienced disability insurance lawyer on your side can make a critical difference. At Disability Insurance Law Group, we help clients navigate each step of the claim process—from the initial filing through appeals and litigation if necessary.

Whether you’re waiting for a decision, facing a request for more documentation, or dealing with a claim denial, our attorneys can protect your rights and challenge insurance company tactics. Contact us today at 954-989-9000 or online for a confidential consultation.