Yes, you can receive disability benefits without a diagnosis. Most disability insurance policies provide a monthly benefit if you meet the definition of disability. If you satisfy the definition of disability then you are entitled to receive your benefits.
The term disability or disabled is generally defined in insurance policies as your inability to perform the duties of your own, or any, occupation due to your medical conditions. Typically, a diagnosis is not an explicit requirement under the policy.
While a diagnosis may not be needed, you must prove the following:
- You have medical issues/symptoms for which you are treating for with medical doctors
- The symptoms you experience result in limitations and restrictions
- These limitations and restrictions cause you to be unable to perform full-time work
You may not need a diagnosis, but your medical records must show that your symptoms impact your functionality. Also, your doctors must be supportive of your claim for disability.
Insurance companies may deny your benefits because of the absence of a diagnosis. However, an experienced attorney will be able to help demonstrate that you do meet the definition of disability.
Our attorneys know what is needed to give you the best chance of receiving your disability benefits. We will work with you to gather the medical evidence needed to get your benefits approved.
We strongly recommend speaking with one of our experienced long-term disability attorney who can help you with:
- Submitting your disability insurance claim;
- Making sure the insurance company meets their deadlines;
- Appealing a denial or termination of your long-term disability benefits;
- Managing your ongoing claim;
- Negotiating a lump-sum settlement; or
- Filing a lawsuit against your disability insurance company if, for example, they deny your appeal.
