Company disability insurance long term

Here's my current situation: I've recently been diagnosed with a serious illness and won't be able to return to work for an indefinite period. I have no short term disability insurance through my employer, but the company does provide (and pay the premiums) for their employees' long term disability insurance after 90 consecutive days of of unpaid medical leave. I will have met this requirement in late April. According to human resources, the insurance will pay 66% of my salary while I get the treatment I need. Since my employer pays the premiums, does anyone know if these premiums are usually paid pre-tax? Will my future benefits possibly be taxed? I'm terrified that I won't make enough to at least pay my bills; I'm a single mother and I don't have family which to turn to for support. I know that I will be required to file a claim with SS Disability - will this also affect the amount of my benefits? I would greatly appreciate any advice. Thank you!

Standard maternity leave is 6-8 weeks. I would like to take 12 weeks. My company (or Short Term Disability) will pay for up to 12 weeks- as long as the doctor approves it. I contacted the doctor and they said they will submit my paper work to STD (short term disability) as 6 weeks medically necessary and then ""patient requested 12 weeks leave". Then she said it is up to the insurance company and my company to decide whether the additional 6 weeks will be covered by STD. The doctors office said that they get requests like this all the time, but all she does is submit the paperwork. She doesn't know if it is normally approved or not. I know I am allowed to take 12 weeks under FMLA. The question I am asking though- is will it be paid? If the doctor only approves me for 6 weeks because of vaginal birth, I will be paid through short term disability for 6 weeks, and then I am allowed to take an additional 6 weeks UNPAID under FMLA. So I am wondering if anyone else has submitted a "patient request" for additional time off during maternity leave and if their insurance company approved them? Or any additional information on how this works would also be helpful.

Standard maternity leave is 6-8 weeks. I would like to take 12 weeks. My company (or Short Term Disability) will pay for up to 12 weeks- as long as the doctor approves it. I contacted the doctor and they said they will submit my paper work to STD (short term disability) as 6 weeks medically necessary and then ""patient requested 12 weeks leave". Then she said it is up to the insurance company and my company to decide whether the additional 6 weeks will be covered by STD. The doctors office said that they get requests like this all the time, but all she does is submit the paperwork. She doesn't know if it is normally approved or not. I know I am allowed to take 12 weeks under FMLA. The question I am asking though- is will it be paid? If the doctor only approves me for 6 weeks because of vaginal birth, I will be paid through short term disability for 6 weeks, and then I am allowed to take an additional 6 weeks UNPAID under FMLA. So I am wondering if anyone else has submitted a "patient request" for additional time off during maternity leave and if their insurance company approved them? Or any additional information on how this works would also be helpful. Thanks for your answer Tina. I have been searching for something like that for a few days now, and you were the first person to actually answer the question and provide me what I was looking for. Unfortunately, the answer was not what I was hoping for- but honest and the trust nonetheless. THANK YOU.

Hi--What happens if I'm on a medical insurance plan and am incapacitated (long-term) due to illness? I'm worried about this because I have a long, LONG history of both physical and emotional/mental health problems. I struggle daily with depression, and if I get too out of my "comfort zone," anxiety can really take over and make my life HELL. OCD can flare up, and the anxiety can cause physical illness as well. I work as a server and babysitter...needless to say, neither of those offer great options for financial security, and I am not yet eligible for the insurance plan from the serving job. I go off my parents' insurance plan in October, and the health insurance from the restaurant won't kick in 'til January. And then what happens if I get sick again and have to quit? I'm guessing the insurance wouldn't cover me for long...? Is there something I can buy independently, maybe? Some "long-term disability" health insurance company or plan? I know nothing about this stuff and just want to make sure I'm not left jobless AND med/doctorless...and input would be appreciated. Thanks!!!:)

can you collect the long term disability that your employer provides for you from an insurance company at the same time as you collect social security disability, or is that double dipping?

A friend worked only 11 weeks during early 2009 earning just over ten grand. She then had a serious knee operation and went onto puny company funded 710 dollars a month short term disability for 6 months. finally, she got some unemployment payments for a few months. This was in NY State. Of course, she had a lot of out of pocket med costs for MD visits, tests, physical therapy, travel, phone, other medical payments which total up, plus some other deductibles if she files the long form with miscellaneous deductions... in NY. How does all this figure on both Federal tax returns as well as NY State tax dept. returns? Does the unemployment insurance count as regular income dollar for dollar....what about the short term disability payments? Any Special things and forms to do/use?

I have medcost insurance and am entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid leave from my company when the baby comes. My short term disability pays 60% of my salary, but this I'm told is only for as long as my doctor okays me for. I'm told the standard is 6 weeks. I need to take the full 12 as it's our first child and I have no family here to help me with him. Of course I'd love to have the full 12 at 60% rather than only 6. Does anybody have any experience with this?

Divorced 5 yrs ago and by my own mistake I never thought to take my ex off my insurance, my boss is now holding this against me from either stating I am no longer and employee so that I can file for my umemployment. I am out on sick leave with doctors excuses and my boss is also refusing to sign my short term disability form he has also showed my dr.'s excuses to all the other employees stating that they are fake (which they are not) and the insurance company is sending out a packet giving us the chance to remove any dependents we should'nt have on our policy. My question is, is this legal what my boss is doing and do I have any rights in this matter?There was no attempt to defraud we never seperated and thought we were common law married.

I have been off work for high blood pressure since I was 9 weeks pregnant. While I was working my blood pressure was through the roof (stressful job). I am now finishing up my short term disability which i had taken through EI since my work doesn't cover it until you've been there two years. I am eligible for Long term disability which i have already applied for and I am now just waiting for approval. I was talking with my benefits department through work and he informed me there is a VERY slim chance I will actually be approved since he figures high blood pressure is not a danger to my unborn childs life, or my life for that matter. I am not currently on medication because my doctor won't put me on it until I am at least 26-28 weeks to prevent premature labor...and she feels it is a last resort since right now in my second trimester it has come down past the danger point (which is normal since it often lowers in your second trimester) and the fact that i am NOT working is helping keep it down. I thought high blood pressure was in fact something to take seriously in pregnancy? It seems like no matter what my doctor puts on the forms it doesn't matter to the insurance company! Can someone tell me what all of the risks are with high blood pressure to myself as well as my baby? and if anyone has had a similar type experience please share..I am so frustrated!

I don't know if many of you will be able to help me out but I'm getting kind of nervous... My doctor took me off work at 9 weeks due to high blood pressure and I have been on short term disability through EI since then. I am now 23 weeks and I have applied for long term disability through my insurance company through work. I was reading everything over and it seems like only really serious conditions get approved and if it isn't as "serious" it can take 10+ weeks sometimes. I know every insurance company is probably different but I imagine they have some basic guidelines to go by...Are you likely to get approved when the problem is due to pregnancy? I will only be on it until I deliver then i will on maternity leave through EI. I just really hope they take it as "serious" My doctor did a half assed job filling out the forms so that concerns me a bit to. Has anyone ever been on ltd while pregnant or have you ever been declined?? Mr. Awesome...I know you're just an idiot plain and simple, but I pay into EI out of every single one of my pay cheques I have received my entire life. I am off work due to medical reasons I am not off simply because I don't want to work. I think these 15 weeks i'm receiving from EI I have earned. For those of you seriously answering my question (thank you) they define "Serious" as cancer, heart conditions, broken bones..ect. It isn't exactly life threatening to me, but it does increase my chances of pre mature labor therefor threatening my babies life. I guess I just need to wait and see!!

I have been on STD (short-term disability) through my employer for almost 4 months. I returned to work on November 9, 2009 on modified hours and will continue to be working them indefinitely at this point. I have been advised that my STD weeks are almost over so I now have to apply for LTD (long term disability). I received a letter from my Human Resources indicating that I will no longer be on their payroll and my "deductions will be in arrears, until my return". I am actually quite confused by that since it is not like I am not working at all, I have returned to work just on modified hours. My HR person and the insurance company are unavailable to answer any of my questions and I am feeling completely stressed. Can anyone explain to me in general how LTD works because the way it seems it is like I am going to end up my company money, lose my benefits, and my vacation. Any feed back is appreciated! @ memaw: Being on disability because I am only working modified hours, so it would supplement my income since I am not working full time hours, I hope that makes sense, from my understanding. @ rayt721: I appreciate your honesty and just reinforce what I already know.

Hi, A family member has been off work for over 5 years receiving long term disability benefits. He/She is in a financial bind and could really use a lump sum settlement. Short of hiring a lawyer is there a way to encourage an insurance company to offer a settlement?? If so how should one go about it? Thanks In Advance

monthly until the person is 65? This person is sick and it's expected he won't recover fully to be able to work ever. It wasn't a car accident. It is because of illness. So the private insurance company will end up paying a million dollars in total for the next many years til the person is 65. Do the insurance companies sometimes review their files and just make lump sum payments to get disabled people off their books? Not a million dollars, but like $200 000 or something... knowing they will end up paying a lot more in the long run if they don't? If they do, how does a disabled person go about making this happen? No this person was on short term, then the 2 year thing, then was approved for long term and has been on LTD for 5 years. They have also applied for social security benefits and have been approved and are getting it. The insurance company pays the difference and this person is still getting a large monthly amount from the insurance company.

If the Healthcare Bill Becomes Law, Will Any Private Company Write Policies? If your answer is "Yes, private companies would still write health insurance policies", then please tell me, "Why would they?" Once the rules change so that companies writing new policies have to write them for all applicants including those with pre-existing illness and disability, is that really insurance? Isn't that just harnessing up the shareholders of the corporation to pay the ongoing costs of the applicant with an existing illness of disability? Why would the shareholders to that? What would be in their heads? What would their business model be? Maybe something like "Oh yes, we get to pay the costs of this applicant's illness or disability, and look how much money we will be able to give to help that applicant. Then we can fail to breakeven, and become bankrupt and see our shares go to zero value, oh that would be fun, how wonderful!" When I got my MBA, I never saw a company with a business model like that. AIG may have had that, but they weren't doing it on purpose. Keep in mind that after the rules change, the old policies can stay in place. The old "book" of existing contracts can become the entire insurance business of the corporation. As long as they don't write new policies, they don't have to take all comers and insure people with pre-existing illness or pre-existing disability. They don't have to go into the charitable payment for sick people business, which doesn't seem a very smart business model for a profit seeking corporation. Ceasing writing new health insurance won't put these companies out of business, but continuing to do so surely will. So, they will apply their talents to other forms of risk-related trading. The Cap and Trade Bill, if it is enacted into law will create a vast market for pollution permissions. These will be actively bought and sold by firms that have experience in forward projection of financial values -- like health insurance companies. It's an Enron style business. Then there's also fire insurance, liability, flood, inability to work insurance, long-term care, all sorts of elements in the risk projection business that could be smoothly integrated into their business models to replace writing new health insurance policies, and would be. So the public option would become the only option for persons seeking health insurance who don't already have a policy. How would that work? That's the Bad Business Model company, and it would work by massive draws on the Federal Treasury until the moment when Congress realizes that it made a huge mistake, and that the Federal government is bankrupt because of operating a business that is well and truly not sensible. When would that happen? It would only take about two years for the Congress to figure this out. What would they do? They would have to close down the public option companies. So what then? Then nobody can get health insurance from any source. You mean the private corporations would not get back into that business? Right, I don't think they would. Once burned, twice shy. So with no health insurance, would healthcare costs be lower for the average American family? They might be, as long as nobody in that family got sick. But the number of bankrupt families due to unexpected health problems would go up dramatically. Would this be better than what we have right now? No, it would not be better. Is there a good reason to enact the Healthcare Bill? No, there's no good reason to do that.

If the Healthcare Bill Becomes Law, Will Any Private Company Write Policies? If your answer is "Yes, private companies would still write health insurance policies", then please tell me, "Why would they?" Once the rules change so that companies writing new policies have to write them for all applicants including those with pre-existing illness and disability, is that really insurance? Isn't that just harnessing up the shareholders of the corporation to pay the ongoing costs of the applicant with an existing illness of disability? Why would the shareholders to that? What would be in their heads? What would their business model be? Maybe something like "Oh yes, we get to pay the costs of this applicant's illness or disability, and look how much money we will be able to give to help that applicant. Then we can fail to breakeven, and become bankrupt and see our shares go to zero value, oh that would be fun, how wonderful!" When I got my MBA, I never saw a company with a business model like that. AIG may have had that, but they weren't doing it on purpose. Keep in mind that after the rules change, the old policies can stay in place. The old "book" of existing contracts can become the entire insurance business of the corporation. As long as they don't write new policies, they don't have to take all comers and insure people with pre-existing illness or pre-existing disability. They don't have to go into the charitable payment for sick people business, which doesn't seem a very smart business model for a profit seeking corporation. Ceasing writing new health insurance won't put these companies out of business, but continuing to do so surely will. So, they will apply their talents to other forms of risk-related trading. The Cap and Trade Bill, if it is enacted into law will create a vast market for pollution permissions. These will be actively bought and sold by firms that have experience in forward projection of financial values -- like health insurance companies. It's an Enron style business. Then there's also fire insurance, liability, flood, inability to work insurance, long-term care, all sorts of elements in the risk projection business that could be smoothly integrated into their business models to replace writing new health insurance policies, and would be. So the public option would become the only option for persons seeking health insurance who don't already have a policy. How would that work? That's the Bad Business Model company, and it would work by massive draws on the Federal Treasury until the moment when Congress realizes that it made a huge mistake, and that the Federal government is bankrupt because of operating a business that is well and truly not sensible. When would that happen? It would only take about two years for the Congress to figure this out. What would they do? They would have to close down the public option companies. So what then? Then nobody can get health insurance from any source. You mean the private corporations would not get back into that business? Right, I don't think they would. Once burned, twice shy. So with no health insurance, would healthcare costs be lower for the average American family? They might be, as long as nobody in that family got sick. But the number of bankrupt families due to unexpected health problems would go up dramatically. Would this be better than what we have right now? No, it would not be better. Is there a good reason to enact the Healthcare Bill? No, there's no good reason to do that.

If your answer is "Yes, private companies would still write health insurance policies", then please tell me, "Why would they?" Once the rules change so that companies writing new policies have to write them for all applicants including those with pre-existing illness and disability, is that really insurance? Isn't that just harnessing up the shareholders of the corporation to pay the ongoing costs of the applicant with an existing illness of disability? Why would the shareholders to that? What would be in their heads? What would their business model be? Maybe something like "Oh yes, we get to pay the costs of this applicant's illness or disability, and look how much money we will be able to give to help that applicant. Then we can fail to breakeven, and become bankrupt and see our shares go to zero value, oh that would be fun, how wonderful!" When I got my MBA, I never saw a company with a business model like that. AIG may have had that, but they weren't doing it on purpose. Keep in mind that after the rules change, the old policies can stay in place. The old "book" of existing contracts can become the entire insurance business of the corporation. As long as they don't write new policies, they don't have to take all comers and insure people with pre-existing illness or pre-existing disability. They don't have to go into the charitable payment for sick people business, which doesn't seem a very smart business model for a profit seeking corporation. Ceasing writing new health insurance won't put these companies out of business, but continuing to do so surely will. So, they will apply their talents to other forms of risk-related trading. The Cap and Trade Bill, if it is enacted into law will create a vast market for pollution permissions. These will be actively bought and sold by firms that have experience in forward projection of financial values -- like health insurance companies. It's an Enron style business. Then there's also fire insurance, liability, flood, inability to work insurance, long-term care, all sorts of elements in the risk projection business that could be smoothly integrated into their business models to replace writing new health insurance policies, and would be. So the public option would become the only option for persons seeking health insurance who don't already have a policy. How would that work? That's the Bad Business Model company, and it would work by massive draws on the Federal Treasury until the moment when Congress realizes that it made a huge mistake, and that the Federal government is bankrupt because of operating a business that is well and truly not sensible. When would that happen? It would only take about two years for the Congress to figure this out. What would they do? They would have to close down the public option companies. So what then? Then nobody can get health insurance from any source. You mean the private corporations would not get back into that business? Right, I don't think they would. Once burned, twice shy. So with no health insurance, would healthcare costs be lower for the average American family? They might be, as long as nobody in that family got sick. But the number of bankrupt families due to unexpected health problems would go up dramatically. Would this be better than what we have right now? No, it would not be better. Is there a good reason to enact the Healthcare Bill? No, there's no good reason to do that. TO ACERMILL: NO PRIVATE CORPORATION IS IN THE "RISK SPREADING BUSINESS". THAT IS A SOCIALLY BENEFICIAL BUT INCIDENTAL BYPRODUCT OF THE HEALTH INSURANCE BUSINESS WHICH IS LIKE ALL OTHER BUSINESSES DONE FOR PROFIT (NOT FOR RISK SPREADING). YOUR EXCELLENT AND WELL-INFORMED RESPONSE IS NOT DISPOSATIVE OF THE ISSUE I RAISED. WHY WOULD IT NOT BE MORE PROFITABLE TO SIMPLY KEEP THEIR CURRENT BOOK, AND MOVE INTO OTHER SECTORS OF THE INSURANCE OR RISK FINANCE BUSINESS? I SAY THAT PEOPLE ARE ALREADY HARD PUT TO PAY THEIR HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUMS. IF THOSE GET RAISED UP (AS YOU ADMIT THEY WILL) THE CUSTOMERS WILL LEAVE. POLICIES THAT ARE REALLY HARD TO SELL ARE NOT A BASIS FOR THE MOST PROFITABLE BUSINESS THOSE COMPANIES COULD BE IN. LIKE WATER THEY WILL FIND THE PATH OF LEAST RESISTANCE WHICH I THINK WOULD BE CESSATION OF NEW POLICY WRITING AND RE-SHAPING THEIR BUSINESS MODEL TO SERVE OTHER MORE PROFITABLE SECTORS. AS TO THE LENGTH ISSUE -- SORRY ABOUT THAT -- IT'S NOT TWITTABLE

This is not a denial from Social Security, it is from my personal insurance company. Any links or advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much!

I am a 60 year old ex college professor who can no longer work due to bipolar disorder. I'm currently receiving Social Security Disability and monthly disability benefits from a private insurance company. The private insurance plan provides full benefits for disable persons with physical disabilties without a term limitation (forever) However, those with mental disabilies like myself can only receive benefits for a maximum of two years. This seems like unfair discrimination against the mentally disabled. Is this legal? Can I do anything to appeal this injustice?

My private long term disability benefits (ERISA) were terminated after over 10 years without notice, because the insurance company believes my condition has improved and I can return to full time work. I receive SSDI also. I filed an appeal, and the insurance company hired an "independent" doctor who has done a lot of work for them before. He verbally abused 3 of my medical providers, and hung up on all of them. With one provider, he would state complete lies about my case, and ask what my doctor thought about that, but I have seen this doctor for years, and she knew these were lies and told him he must not have read the medical records. It seemed like a case of trying to undermine support from my medical providers. Also, two of them were hung up on when they indicated that discussions needed to be documented in writing. Is this normal for insurance company doctors, and he is just checking if they really do stand fast by their written opinions that I'm disabled, or else trying to trap them somehow into a misstatement? Or is it a foregone conclusion he will write a report against me based on this behavior, even though the medical file supports severe disability and all my medical providers do, as well? two of them were hung up on when they indicated that discussions needed to be documented in writing. Thanks for any past experience

what are the posibilty of getting some that money back it was not my fault the company went bust i feel it was money waisted

My wife became very ill with Fibromyalgia and Multiple Sclerosis in July, 2008. The company she worked for terminated her employment in October, 2008. She is still unable to work and an application with SSI is pending, probably months from approval. The company she worked for had a group Long Term Disability policy. We did not elect for COBRA as the health insurance premium was cost-prohibitive. Is it too late for her to file a claim on that LTD policy? Or must one still be employed to be eligible for benefits?

My wife and I were able to successfully appeal our LTD denial. We also won our Social Security denial without a lawyer. But that leaves open what happens afterwards, what options do I have when the private insurance company behaves unprofessionally by harassing, lying, and constantly threatening you by "reviewing your disability status", month after month, considering new paperwork old because it took them weeks to get to it, etc.? Some examples: **Refusal to give me my policy, they had to be forced to do so by my former employer, only after I hired a lawyer to send them a letter demanding they provide it. **Constantly requesting "updated medical information", month after month, even though I have a letter from Social Security informing me that they are not even going review my medical condition for the next 5-7 years, due to the severity of my injury! Seems like every time I get them a report from my Dr., it takes them 4 weeks to review it and then it's old news and it starts again! **They lied and sent me a letter that they were going to reduce my monthly benefits dollar for dollar because of my daughter's Social Security benefits.I had to hire an attorney to review the contract, send a letter that it was not legal to do so, then they sent me a letter apologizing for their "mistake". I can go on and on, and that's just since last august! Am I protected from this abuse by the ADA or Bad Faith Provisions in NJ, or any other laws or regulations? So you consider it an "inconvenience" that they tried to steal my benefits, refused to provide a policy, even though I am injured and in chronic pain? What good are bad faith laws? Thanks

i am receiving short term disability right now and because i have reached my maximum time, my insurance company sent me info regarding long-term disability. However, it was denied because my insurance company has that"pre-existing" clause. My condition occured after giving birth. How and can i appeal this?

Hello I work for the City of Los Angeles I hurt my back at work 2 years ago and I have gone thur the 2 year workers comp process ,because of other medical complications I can not recieve the treatment i need to go back to work. However as part of my benefits package we have Private Disability Insurance that has 2 plans Plan One: short term disability that is paid by the City of Los Angeles to pay out at 50% of the employee's salary per month (Under the employee's own occupation) Plan Two: Long Term Disability that is paid by the employee as a supplemental meaning the employee can pay the minimum of 30 dollars per month to pay out 66 2/3 of the employee's monthly salary up to the employee's retirement year ( Under the Any occupation ) The Disability Insurance is only available if there is a work related injury , the City of Los Angeles Had their doctors examine me , take MRI's etc.... and placed me off work due to a ruptured disk in my back with meds,. The Private Insurance Company Denied my claim based own their doctors opinon after they looked at my doctor's reports and the opinon of their occupation asessment dept saying i could work a supevisory position with my injury based own my work history and education. Not once has any of their doctors ever seen me let alone examine me . There is more details please email me back if you can advise me because of this outrage ( I'm in pain everyday) I am without any finances i have lost my residence and I am homeless ,I have exhausted my friends and relatives and my bills are over the top and I'm about to lose all my possessions I need money like yesturday please tell me what can I do ,I need help I do not have an attorney

etc. Now, there are 2 different views on this health care plan, why does the media find it necessary to demonize either side? Both sides have a valid point. Side A. There are many uninsured Americans in the USA today, and the insurance companies have been gouging the consumer, and even prisoners have their health care paid for, why shouldn't all other Americans? Anything is better than nothing. Side B. Senior citizens shouldn't have to pay the price for it by having to pay a $25.00 co-pay to see a doctor if they're on medicare. Those with disabilities who live in long term care facilities should not have to give up half of their SSI check in order to pay for the health care plan. A new tax is not necessary to pay for the health care plan and neither should any of the other cuts which are being made, especially when health care companies are quadrupling their profits in a 7 year time span, even with 20% of Americans loosing their insurance. There is no reason why a government alternative could not sponsor itself and make a minimal profit without gouging the rest of America. The plan increase the amount of time one would have to wait to receive care. The Obama administration has already taken control over our banking system and lost track of trillions of dollars that were supposed to go towards the people. Government take over of health care is not a good idea. It doesn't matter which side you are on, you should be able to discuss it intelligently. And, ones first amendment rights should not be violated, and politicians should not have a problem with answering any ones questions! Please, do tell me which side you are on, and do feel free to add to the lise on both sides and tell me which side you are on.

In most long term disability insurance policies, benefits for mental illness end at 24 months. If the subscriber remains in the hospital, long term disability is extended by each in-patient day. Where is the incentive to get healthy. I would have been better off financially had I never left the hospital. Mental illness, again, is targeted as a way for insurance companies to get out of paying what the consumer has purchased in disability insurance. This is outrageous. And must not be tolerated. We must get disability insurance companies to change these barbaric loop-holes in their plans.

So, I work for a small company (5 employees) and they do not currently offer short term disability. I am interested in getting it, as my hubby and I plan on getting pregnant within the next few months. I just raised the question at our company meeting this morning and I was told to send the owner an email to look into it. His email is a black hole of nothingness so I don't expect to get anything done that way. So I have started filling the whole "Send me a quote" things on the website to have them sent to myself. What I need from you guys is some info/feedback which companies do/don't offer the following: 1) Maternity Coverage 2) At what % of income 3) for how long? (6 week normal, 8 week c-section?) 4) how long did you have to be a policy holder for before you were covered 5) is this through your business or personal.. and if you can tell me how much that would be awesome And for any of you insurance agents out there who may read this, we're located in Pennsylvania and looking for any reasonable quotes you may be able to offer. yeah so if i saved $200/month until i got 3 months worth of salary built up we're looking at me not getting pregnant for 5 years, so I'd be 36 so thats really not an option. Also - I've already had one c-section and plan to have another, so im not sure how a giant gash across my abdomen after major abdominal surgery doesn't count as a disability especially if my doctor says I'm not allowed to drive for 6+ weeks, and my job is all driving.

I have depression along with the arthritis.I got long term disability through my insurance company was suppose to get it till age 65 but because of arthritis they only would pay for 2 years max.they had allsup apply for ssdi for me all along they said my case was strong and i had my hearing with the ALJ they said they thought i got it.It took 10 weeks to get the decision and i was denied.I dont know what to do next im so angry i worked for 20 years in a factory made good money then one day i was having surgery and the doc's told me i could'nt go back to work and my best bet was to go on disability.IM not lazy person that has been trying to cheat the system all my life any suggestions on what to do?

Does a disability insurance company have some sort of time limit to make a decision on a clam. I'm switching over from short term to long term disability. But it's been over eight months of one thing after another. They ran out of excuses to give to me why they are still reviewing the claim. Now they simply say we haven't made our decision. i'm getting to a point where i'm going to get a lawyer. BUt i don't want to because i will have to pay the lawyer a percentage of my claim. Is there some sort of state law to protect a person against insurance companies stalling on a claim. THis is crazy. hurt my back and can't do my job anymore

10 years ago, I spoke with a senior claims manager at the disability insurance company that pays benefits to me governed by ERISA. I wanted clarification about part time work (allowed by the policy) and the procedure for terminating benefits (they acted in bad faith before and I was afraid they would cut me off without notice). He sent me a follow up letter stating that I would be notified *before* any possible changes would be made in paying my benefits. 10 years later, they have terminated my benefits without notice, based on a nurse's dishonest editing of my medical records. I'm appealing now, and will almost certainly win in the long run, but I want to know Was the senior claims manager's promise to me legally binding on the company, since he was clarifying the terms of the policy for me? That might restore my benefits for a few weeks while I am still getting my appeal in and they reviewing it. Thanks!

I have already one life insurance who cover 75% from my mortgage, my company offer me long term disability, and some friends of mine advise me to do the critical illness insurance just in case if i would be sick and i cannot pay my mortgage.

I am currently an Office Manager for an Insurance Company who was paying me $13 an hour totally not worth all the freaking work I do for them. My friend refferred me to another job and they offered me $29000 a year with 100% paid full benefits for me and my children including Long Term Disability, Dental, & Life Insurance. My current employer came back and offerred me $40,000 Year with Commission Potential. I know I have the ability to earn good commission here but I just do not know. I will need to pay my own benefits. What would you do?

If a company pays you a differential pay for night shifts and you go out on Short or Long Term Disability is the Differential pay you received part of your gross salary if that is what you earned? So lets say they pay you 70% of your salary is that part of it? It was not paid as overtime - it was straight pay for the crazy hours worked. It was an extra 12 hours of pay per week straight. Curious to see if there are any insurance agents who handle this or employers who can answer this question.

My company only offers short term disability (up to 90 days per calendar year). I'd like to get a long term coverage policy on my own, but am not sure of the best way to go about doing this. Does anyone have any tips, or any suggestions on places to get it from?

An officer worker in a pay roll office told me that it's mandatory to pay 'life insurance' even if I don't want to pay it. and If I keep refusing to pay it, she said the company will have to fire me which is bullshit to me. She didn't show me any legal document and just said that, so I believe she just doesn't want to spend her time doing some paperworks, I mean she was lazy. So anybody can tell me if it's a legal mandatory thing to to pay it or not? if either yes or not, please post some law-related site, I hate when the company takes money out of my paycheck without my permission. Thank you! (the details of what deducted from my paystub are, STD(Short Term Disability), LTD(Long Term Disability), LIFE INS( Life Insurance), these are all bullshit to me, cause I am not gonna get involved in any accident, so please don't reply anything like, you need this because you may get injured please, it's my decision.

For years I have been suffering from a back injury and things have recently come to a point; I have two ruptured discs in my lower back. Due to the limitations that it has imposed on my life, I have been released from my job and have been disabled since Feb. Fortunately for the company, there is a waiver on their policy stating if I was injured at work, I'm not eligible for disability. However, workers compensation (now along with my private insurance) has refused payment as they both think the other is responsible. Conveniently, the deposition keeps getting moved further and further back. Due to the extreme cost of care, all surgical treatments are unavailable right now. Regardless, different neurosurgeons find that 1) yes I need a fusion, 2) I don't need a fusion, 3) anywhere in between. Through an alternate therapy, my pain got significantly better, plateaued, and then took a significant nose dive. I feel like I'm falling. I'm running out of money and I feel like I'm running out of life. I've always been an extremely results driven person that enjoys completing tasks. I've always done well in college taking a full load while working 50+ hours/week. Without work and without school for the summer at least, I don't know what to do. I've been pulling my hair out since this went down in Feb and it has gotten worse. I feel useless, disposed, and cast aside. I had three exemplary years as a supervisor with yearly reviews stating above standards. I worked hard for that company and I'm their garbage now. On good days I can walk nice distance, but on bad days I can barely get out of bed; I've lost my independence. There are seemingly no jobs that I am eligible for as the market is saturated with candidates with graduate degrees which make an Associates look like a GED. I feel like this pain is destroying my morale and soul. My fiancee, who has been simply amazing throughout the two years of dealing with this pain, is starting to drift, and I don't know what to do. She always makes comments on how sweet I am to her even when I'm in pain, but seeing me in so much pain hurts her to the point that I don't think she wants to be with me much longer. I know counseling is an option, but it takes a lot of money; one must have a job to make money; hard to have a job when you're disabled in the insurance term of the word. I'm not sure what to do, I feel like my life is slipping away from me; I'm beginning to hate the things that I do even on a normal basis. I especially hate the way I'm hurting the one I love, but I can't find anything to do about it. The pain she sees is the pain that makes it through; the rest I hold back. I'm thoroughly confused and downright scared. I'm open to anyone's recommendations and I also feel like I need to sit down and just talk (and/or chat) with someone as the way I feel is extremely embarrassing to me. Thank you in advance to everyone.

My husband has just received his first social security disability payment- I think it is back pay for 6-12 months (not sure since we have not yet received the approval notice, the deposit just showed up in his account today). He has been on long term disability through his work for over a year now & we have been paying COBRA - $600.00 per month for 14 months. We have 4 more months of COBRA eligibility & then will have no health insurance. My company does not offer. His doctor bills & prescriptions will cost more than the $600.00 per month once Cobra ends. My question is when does medicare start covering him? He is only 58 right now. Please don't answer if you don't know- & I have looked at the web sites- I am just trying to confirm what it looks like to me. Thanks! The 2 answers so far are total spam- which is exactly what I didn't want.

I worked for a furniture company, renting furniture. I went to the doctor on June 2, for pregnancy, the doctor gave me a restriction of "NOT LIFTING ANYTHING OVER 25 LBS". I took the note to my manager on June 3, 10 a.m. by 12:30 the district manager was there to give me "Administrative Termination", saying that I would still have my job and I could file for disability. I received a letter saying that I was denied the request for a medical leave of absence due to the 90 day policy. I have paid on insurance 1 month in advance before it went into affect on June 1. I also took out short and long term disability. The letter also states that I may or may not be guaranteed a position when I return. I called my human resources lady who said the papers for disability were sent out and that would be up to the insurance company. I feel like Im getting a run around because I don't know where to go from here. I could have been put in the office not lifting anything, should I talk to a lawyer what should I do from here? Please help.. Mommy to be is really stressing now!

I worked for a furniture company, renting furniture. I went to the doctor on June 2, for pregnancy, the doctor gave me a restriction of "NOT LIFTING ANYTHING OVER 25 LBS". I took the note to my manager on June 3, 10 a.m. by 12:30 the district manager was there to give me "Administrative Termination", saying that I would still have my job and I could file for disability. I received a letter saying that I was denied the request for a medical leave of absence due to the 90 day policy. I have paid on insurance 1 month in advance before it went into affect on June 1. I also took out short and long term disability. The letter also states that I may or may not be guaranteed a position when I return. I called my human resources lady who said the papers for disability were sent out and that would be up to the insurance company. I feel like Im getting a run around because I don't know where to go from here. I could have been put in the office not lifting anything, should I talk to a lawyer what should I do from here? Please help.. Mommy to be is really stressing now!

1. What type of reports do Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian produce?(1 point) income studies credit reports crime rate statistics bankruptcy filings 2. How long does a negative notation on your credit report last? (1 point) one year ten years seven years forever 3. When buying or selling a used car, what’s the best resource on finding an accurate price? (1 point) Cheryl Red Book Kelley Blue Book Paul Pink Book Newspaper Advertisements 4. If you drive more than 15,000 miles each year, you should lease a car instead of buying one. (1 point) True False 5. 401-K’s and IRA’s are examples of what? (1 point) Debt Consolidators Stock Markets Retirement Accounts Checking Accounts 6. What type of insurance pays you a monthly cash benefit in the event you’re injured and cannot work? (1 point) Automobile Insurance Long Term Care Insurance Disability Insurance Life Insurance 7. Your annual household income is a part of your credit score calculation. (1 point) True False 8. A credit card is an example of what kind of credit: (1 point) Deferred Revolving Interest-Free Recurring 9. If you have a low credit score, you’ll pay more for insurance. (1 point) True False 10. An individual who prefers high risk investments with a (possibly) high-reward is called: (1 point) Risk-finding Risk-taking Risk-seeking Risk-searching 11. Wealthy people and companies that invest money in startup companies in exchange for a large share of future profits are called what? (1 point) Venture capitalists Loan sharks Loan officers Risk-averse 12. When someone prefers to invest and participate in the founding of new companies instead of investing in savings instruments or the stock market they would be called what? (1 point) Risk-averse Entrepreneurial Unilateral Risk-finding 13. What federal program makes sure your bank deposits are never lost due to bank bankruptcy? (1 point) The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation The World Bank The Securities and Exchange Commission The Federal Reserve Bank 14. What is the single best way to increase your long-term income? (1 point) receive a promotion receive a merit pay increase increase your educational level invest in startup companies 15. What is the best way to decrease your expenses? (1 point) pay down any outstanding credit cards get a smaller apartment/house sell your automobile diversify 16. Which of the following expenses would be considered discretionary expenses? (1 point) rent electricity credit card payments magazine subscriptions 17. When an asset (something of value) is always connected to the ground and cannot move – it is called what? (1 point) Liquidated Real Property Collateral Real Estate 18. Expenses such as electricity, telephone service, and water service are called what? (1 point) Bills Debt Utilities Revolving Credit 19. The money you pay to an insurance company to insure your property or asset is called what? (1 point) An insurance premium An insurance deductible An insurance payment Insurance coverage 20. When an asset (something of value) such as an automobile or home is voluntarily sold for cash, it would be considered what? (1 point) Refinanced Liquidated Collateral Repossessed 21. Documentation from an insurance company that states what item or property is insured and the amount that you will receive if the property is destroyed is called what? (1 point) An insurance premium An insurance declaration An insurance policy An insurance deductible 22. An Emergency fund should be made up of what? (1 point) Real property Savings instruments Stock Cash Only 23. The amount of money you’re likely to make in a lifetime is called what? (1 point) tax bracket income potential taxable income equity 24. When inflation is high, on a daily basis the money in your pocket becomes what? (1 point) Worth more Worth less Liquidated Discretionary spending 25. A numerical comparison between two figures is called what? (1 point) a ratio a percentage a sum a difference 26. When your credit score is poor, your mortgage interest rate will be: (1 point) Higher Lower 27. A revolving credit account where the cardholder must pay the full account balance each month is called what? (1 point) a charge card a debit card a credit card a gift card 28. In a list of numbers placed in numerical order, the middle number is called what? (1 point) the average the median the difference the total 29. A FREE warranty from an automobile manufacturer that covers any and all mechanical problems for a specified period from the purchase date is generally called what? (1 point) Supplemental insurance Bumper-to-Bumper warranty Manufacturers extended warranty Sellers guarantee 30. A short-term financial goal is achieved within what time period? (1 point) 10-25 years 1-12 months 1-5 years 30 years 31. E

hi, i messed my back up. I have a herniated disc in c spine and bulge in L spine. My insurance carrier wants me to go get a functionality test. What should i expect from the test? SInce it's a doctor the insurance company made for me, won't the test be biased. My job requries me to lift eighty pounds throughout the day for about ten hours.

26. When your credit score is poor, your mortgage interest rate will be: (1 point) Higher Lower 27. A revolving credit account where the cardholder must pay the full account balance each month is called what? (1 point) a charge card a debit card a credit card a gift card 28. In a list of numbers placed in numerical order, the middle number is called what? (1 point) the average the median the difference the total 29. A FREE warranty from an automobile manufacturer that covers any and all mechanical problems for a specified period from the purchase date is generally called what? (1 point) Supplemental insurance Bumper-to-Bumper warranty Manufacturers extended warranty Sellers guarantee 30. A short-term financial goal is achieved within what time period? (1 point) 10-25 years 1-12 months 1-5 years 30 years 31. Either party involved in a contract can change typed passages by writing the changes on the document and then having both parties initial next to the change. (1 point) True False 32. If your credit score is low, or you don’t have established credit, a person that does have good or established credit will have to what? (1 point) co-sign on the debt assign the debt guarantee the debt A and C 33. What is the most important part of a contract to read? (1 point) The bold passages The fine print The period of performance The payment schedule 34. All charge card and credit card companies must send you a copy of the terms of your cardholder agreement if you request it in writing. (1 point) True False 35. When paying for medical care, the portion of the total cost you pay out-of-pocket for prescriptions and/or doctor visits (after insurance) are called medical: (1 point) Supplements Co-pays Premiums Deductibles 36. Supplemental insurance policies can pay you regular income for: (1 point) Long-term disabilities Injury disabilities Cancer treatment All of the above 37. The reduction of value of an asset (something of value) over time due to normal usage is called what? (1 point) Depreciation Appreciation Decay Inflation 38. What are considerations to think about when planning for retirement? (1 point) Time to retirement Planned quality of life Current savings All of the above 39. Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax are all involved in collecting information that results in a report of your: (1 point) Income Debt to Income Ratio Credit Score Interest Rate 40. The retail price of a brand-new automobile is also known as? (1 point) The wholesale value The sticker price The Kelly Blue Book price The dealer price 41. When you're retired or disabled, what government institution pays your regular monthly income based upon contributions you made while working? (1 point) The Social Security Administration Medicare Medicaid Elderly Assistance Institute 42. When you have a fixed amount of income each month, with no expectation of an increase or decrease in the amount you receive you're living on a what? (1 point) Variable income Fixed income Poverty line Low-income subsidy 43. The amount of goods and services you can buy with your money is referred to as what? (1 point) Inflationary spending Bartering Purchasing power The exchange rate 44. The simplest form of a loan contract between two individuals is called what? (1 point) Exchange agreement I.O.U. Borrowing agreement Lending agreement 45. If your down-payment on a home is GREATER than 20% of the total value, you'll generally have to purchase Personal Mortage Insurance. (1 point) True False 46. The metaphor for your main income sources during retirement is what? (1 point) The four-legged dog The three-legged stool The three-pronged attack The four-legged stool 47. Mortage loans have lower interest rates (and lower risk to lenders) than automobile loans, why? (1 point) The bank will always know where to find a house Automobile loans have smaller loan amounts Automobiles can be hidden from repossession A and C 48. The payment schedule on a mortage is created using what? (1 point) An amortization table A balance-due spreadsheet An equity schedule A principal repayment plan 49. If you're living "beyond your means" it's likely you'll eventually go bankrupt. (1 point) True False 50. The type of card that is linked to your checking account and doesn't accrue interest is called what? (1 point) a charge card a credit card a debit card a revolving card

My long term disability benefits were cancelled after 14 years because the insurance company cherry picked two "good" visits I had with the psychiatrist this year (meaning, I wasn't on the verge of suicide for once). It turns out that group long term disability policies fall under the federal law called ERISA and disability law under ERISA is a very, very specialized branch of law. Moreover, I have to get an attorney in the state where I became disabled (I live in Minnesota, I need a California lawyer). There is no way I can get a referral to someone good from someone I know & the only lawyer I have ever used in the past was a family lawyer for a minor matter. Social Security disability is a wholly different matter - I'm not looking for an SSDI attorney. Any tips, other than feel them out in the initial consultation? Thanks for any advice!! what I am looking for, is how do I know if they are a GOOD lawyer, as opposed to a mediocre one.

I have a huge financial decision to make,and could use your thoughts? I could use other thoughts asap,as I have to decide by next Monday .There is a fair amount of info,but I will try to keep it short as possable. I am 52 and permenently disabled, I took out long term disability insurance while employed, which I get $600 monthly from this plan, which pays until I am 65(about 95,000 left). The deal is this; the company just offered to buy me out of the LTD(long term disability) plan,They offered me $45,200, I realize this less than half,,but my home really needs some work, and I couldn't do this on what I make monthly. Without getting into details,a refi,or home improvement loan isn't an option right now, so I am guessing about 10 grand would get my house back to where it should be. The financial bottom line is if I pay off my car loan ($4,000) I am pretty much at a break even point with what I make monthly, so as long as I didn't go crazy with the cash, it should last a while.. Another thing is I would probably have to pay taxes on this money, right now I don't pay any taxes as I don't make enough yearly-but I would probably have to give 20% in taxes, so I would end up with about 35,000(unless someone knows a way around this???) from what I could find out is if I paid all the premium, I woulld be exempt from taxes, but because my employer paid a portion, I would be liable for taxes. With the way things are right now, the power of cash in hand is pretty high, so I figure I could get a good deal on the home improvement. And not to be negative, but I have been disabled 15 years, so who knows if I would make it to 65?? I would appreciate comments/ opinions on this. I really am in a quandry if I should take the deal--and with companies going down the toilet, I always worry I will get a letter saying Sorry, no more money! I look forward to your comments, Larry P.S.Yes, one of the first things I did was try and get the amount increased. They said that's the offer-take it of leave it. I forgot to give my thoughts on the home repair. As I said, the house really needs some work and,I may sell in a few years after the values go up a bit, so work I do now will actually increase my bottom line down the road(just FYI)

I could use other thoughts asap,as I have one week left to decide.There is a fair amount of info,but I will try to keep it short as possable. I am 52 and permenently disabled, I took out long term disability insurance while employed, which I get $600 monthly from this plan, which pays until I am 65(about 95,000 left). The deal is this; the company just offered to buy me out of the LTD(long term disability) plan,They offered me $45,200, I realize this less than half,,but my home really needs some work, and I couldn't do this on what I make monthly. Without getting into details,a refi,or home improvement loan isn't an option right now, so I am guessing about 10 grand would get my house back to where it should be. The financial bottom line is if I pay off my car loan ($4,000) I am pretty much at a break even point with what I make monthly, so as long as I didn't go crazy with the cash, it should last a while.. Another thing is I would probably have to pay taxes on this money, right now I don't pay any taxes as I don't make enough yearly-but I would probably have to give 20% in taxes, so I would end up with about 35,000(unless someone knows a way around this???) With the way things are right now, the power of cash in hand is pretty high, so I figure I could get a good deal on the home improvement. And not to be negative, but I have been disabled 15 years, so who knows if I would make it to 65?? I would appreciate comments/ opinions on this. I really am in a quandry if I should take the deal--and with companies going down the toilet, I always worry I will get a letter saying Sorry, no more money! I look forward to your comments, Larry First, thanks to those of you that gave your thoughts. Yes, one of the first things I did was try and get the amount increased. They said that's the offer-take it of leave it. I forgot to give my thoughts on the home repair. As I said, the house really needs some work.Understand I may spend 20 hours a month outside of the house, otherwise,this is it. So having comfortable surroundings is important. Besides,I may sell in a few years after the values go up a bit, so work I do now will actually increase my bottom line down the road(just FYI) Lastly, this isn't settlement money,I was not injured, I ended up with a bone disease at 35. it was an insurance policy, and from what I could find out is if I paid all the premium, I woulld be exempt from taxes, but because my employer paid a portion, I would be liable for taxes.

I have been on disability for 14 years due to bipolar disorder that is very severe with very few, short periods of milder symptoms. I improved recently, as part of the normal bipolar cycle, but not enough to even return to work part time. The insurance company has interpreted my psychiatrist's notes that I "improved" as a statement I am well enough to go back to work, full-time, despite my doctor of 8 years strongly stating that I could not go back to work. she was asked to state what my functional limitations were, (I suspect) right off the top of her head, in the phone call, and she couldn't come up with them, but I don't know for sure. I think she can clear all this up (but she is on vacation for 1 1/2 weeks) and of course the company didn't ask for therapist or case manager or hospitalization or electroshock treatment records from last year before cancelling my benefits-I just got the termination letter. I didn't know my case was being reviewed, so I could send them these things. I think I should get a lawyer for my internal appeal, since this is a group policy under ERISA guidelines, which favor the insurance company. So I'm afraid to handle this on my own. Is a lawyer going to take a case that is probably a sure-fire win, on the first appeal, but my benefit was only $1300 a month anyhow? It doesn't seem worth their time to take the case, and these cases are much more involved than SSI/SSDI. How much do they charge? Has anyone had a denial overturned? In my case, the doctor's stuff was clearly taken out of context, and there is lots of missing info. maybe people hardly ever win these disability denials - anything anyone knows is helpful. I already get SSDI - the mental illness is very severe. The insurance company is way out of line. But the burden of proof is on ME. Thanks! The insurance company was already reducing my check by the SSDI check amount I can't see how this can go to trial (even though I am afraid) because I have so much medical evidence of severe mental illness. I think the decision will be overturned in the first appeal, but that is only $400 for the lawyer. (??)

I just found out my long term disability insurance coverage was cancelled, after 14 years of being severely disabled for bipolar. I have had mixed moods & been very suicidal for many years, in and out of the hospital 14 times or so, and even had electroshock last year. They based this denial on a medical record note about one meeting with my doc where I was "improved", even though in a telephone conversation with their doctor, my psychiatrist said there was no way I could handle a job. She's on vacation for a week and a half, though, of course, so I have been all in a dither. They say I can go back to work full time. Here is the weird thing, though - I was all upset like you would think I would be, the first 4 days, but obsessively researching everything I could on the Internet & writing up my response, etc. I am going to get a lawyer, too. But now I am feeling GOOD, even getting that euphoric, at one with the universe hypomania I haven't had in years, getting the increased sex drive, the whole bit. this is weird! I have still been going to bed on time, because i am a good bipolar girl & didn't force this cycle into mania on purpose. What the heck? Ever have something like this happen? Is it the obsessiveness? This is 40% of my husband's and my income we have lost, a really big deal. I also worry that the insurance company will hold this against me too - that I can go back to work because now I am hypomanic, instead of suicidal mixed moods. I've never had a hypomania last longer than 5 months, in my life.

I have been on disability for 14 years due to bipolar disorder that is very severe. I improved recently, but not enough to even return to work part time, and this is part of being bipolar. The insurance company has interpreted my psychiatrist's notes that I "improved" as a statement I am well enough to go back to work, full-time, despite my doctor of 8 years stating that I could not go back to work. I suspect she was asked to state what my functional limitations were, right off the top of her head, in the phone call, and she couldn't come up with them, but don't know for sure. I think she can clear all this up (but she is on vacation for 1 1/2 weeks) and of course the company didn't ask for therapist or case manager or hospitalation or my electroshock treatment records from last year before cancelling my benefits. I think I should get a lawyer, since this is a group policy under ERISA guidelines, and in court I have to prove they were arbitrary and capricious in rejecting my claim, if the internal appeal fails. I can't add any evidence to my claim after the internal appeals. So I'm afraid to handle this on my own. Is a lawyer going to take a case that is probably a sure-fire win, on the first appeal, but my benefit was only $1300 a month anyhow? It doesn't seem worth their time to take the case, and these cases are harder than SSI/SSDI. How much do they charge? Has anyone had a denial overturned? In my case, the doctor's stuff was clearly taken out of context, and there is lots of missing info. maybe people hardly ever win these disability denials - anything anyone knows is helpful. Thanks! PS I already get SSDI, and there is NO QUESTION about whether I can work even part time. These insurance company have hired a hit-man doctor. Versa, you apparently know nothing about bipolar. It doesn't make a person stupid or make them drool. Idiot. I hope you never have to experience the utter hell that is bipolar.

I received a letter from my long term disability insurance company stating they are cutting off my disability benefit for severe bipolar disorder because I am well enough to return to work (their standard is any occupation, but it would be full time work - the policy allows part time work). I have very severe bipolar disorder and have been extremely suicidal and in and out of the hospital over and over for the past 4 years, and have improved about 30% recently- but bipolar does that on its own - it is an intermittent disorder. I am never well enough to work full time or even 20 hours a week - it is very severe bipolar- I have a social worker etc. Bipolar is DEFINED by being intermittent - my case has been unusual in that it has been so chronic. They know I have been very ill back to 1995, when I first went on disability - it is very clear, I will never recover from this illness. I have been hospitalized like 15 times. So does anyone know how long term disability is SUPPOSED to work for severe disabilities that are well proven to have times of temporary remission? It isn't reasonable for them to say I can go back to work when I will only last a couple weeks, then be back in the hospital. I'm sure you fibromyalgia sufferers and back pain folks have been thru this stuff before. Do long term disability companies just do this to people, and try to kick them off, even after 15 years? It is Cigna. I think they have a very bad reputation. I am working on my appeal, but any insights would be VERY much appreciated. Thanks.