Texas Long-Term Disability Insurance Lawyer

Experienced Representation to Get Disability Benefits in Texas

If you or someone you know has had their long-term disability benefits denied or terminated in Texas, it's crucial to have a disability insurance attorney in Texas assist with your claim. Disability insurance companies handle numerous claims daily, often utilizing complex terms that can be challenging to navigate alone. A Texas long-term disability lawyer understands how the insurance company might avoid paying your disability benefits and can foresee their tactics. At Dabdoub Law Firm, we have successfully helped thousands of clients from coast to coast receive the rightful disability benefits they deserve for over two decades. Our dedication enables us to build strong cases efficiently. Let us advocate for you during this difficult time!

To secure the services of our firm, contact our Texas disability attorney for a free initial consultation at (800) 969-0488. Our attorneys are prepared to answer any questions you have regarding your disability insurance claim.

Texas Disability Insurance Laws Are Better for the Disabled

For years, disability insurance companies had the upper hand in cases governed by the federal law known as ERISA. ERISA was created in the 1970s and allowed many disability insurance policies to give the claims administrator the authority to make decisions on who gets paid disability benefits. This provides “discretion” for the disability insurance companies, often resulting in unfavorable outcomes for the insured. This means that unless the judge deciding the case found that the disability insurance company had no reasonable basis to deny or terminate benefits, they had to rule in favor of the insurance company. This ruling was necessary even if the judge thought the insurance company’s decision was flawed. Such discretion has historically made it challenging for a disabled person to win a lawsuit filed in court against a disability insurance company, allowing companies to prevail even with flawed reasoning.

Fortunately, this unfair advantage in the law ended in 2011. The Texas Department of Insurance recognized these clauses as deceptive and inherently unfair. As a result, Texas state laws banned discretionary clauses in disability policies offered, issued, renewed, or delivered in Texas on or after February 1, 2011. Texas updated this policy by extending the ban to life, health, and other related insurance policies starting June 1, 2011. The Texas Insurance Code, supported by the Texas Administrative Code, enforces this significant protection. Courts have subsequently confirmed that even though ERISA is a federal law, the Texas discretionary ban still holds within the state.

Challenges of Disability Insurance in Texas

In Texas, understanding the intricacies of disability insurance claims is essential due to the various insurance policy stipulations that can affect your eligibility for benefits. Many claims are denied initially due to a lack of comprehensive medical records or insufficient evidence proving disability. Lawyers at Dabdoub Law Firm can assist in gathering and presenting the necessary documentation to strengthen your claim. Texas offers a unique legal landscape, with state laws that favor the insured. Navigating these laws requires a thorough understanding of federal and state regulations, ensuring your claim effectively aligns with legal standards. Our attorneys are adept at strategizing within these frameworks to position you advantageously in your pursuit of benefits.

Hire a Texas Long Term Disability Lawyer at Dabdoub Law Firm

Filing your disability claim in Texas helps ensure you benefit from the state’s discretionary ban, which offers better protection typically unavailable in other jurisdictions. If you live in Texas, you can file your disability lawsuit in the state. You can also file your disability lawsuit in Texas if you worked there when you became disabled. If the disability insurance company denied or terminated your disability benefits while you were living in Texas, you may also file your lawsuit in the state, securing an advantageous legal stance.

Our Texas long-term disability lawyers can help through every phase of a disability claim. This includes the initial claim process, the appeal of a denial or termination, and a lawsuit. We can also negotiate a lump-sum buyout of your claim if you are receiving long-term disability benefits, providing you with financial security moving forward. At each stage, we ensure all necessary documentation is meticulously handled and deadlines met to optimize your chances for successful outcomes.

Contact Dabdoub Law Firm to get representation from a Texas disability lawyer. Schedule a free consultation today at (800) 969-0488. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If My Disability Claim Is Denied?

If your disability claim is denied, it's important to understand the denial reasons detailed in the denial letter. This letter often states the specific documentation the insurance company found lacking or why they believe you do not qualify. Working with a disability insurance attorney in Texas at Dabdoub Law Firm can help address these deficiencies effectively. We assist in gathering additional medical evidence and crafting a compelling appeal letter, reinforcing why your claim should be approved.

How Are Disability Benefits Impacted by Texas State Laws?

In Texas, state laws can significantly impact your ability to secure disability benefits. State-specific laws, like the ban on discretionary clauses, ensure fair treatment by insurance companies. Unlike in other states where ERISA's federal discretion might rule, Texas enforces strong consumer protections. This means if you are living, working, or have filed your claim in Texas, these state laws can be leveraged to support your claim.

How Long Do I Have to File a Disability Insurance Lawsuit in Texas?

The time frame to file a disability insurance lawsuit in Texas is typically outlined in your insurance policy, but it's often within 3 years from the date your claim was denied. However, it's crucial to review your policy or consult with a disability insurance lawyer in Texas to understand any specific deadlines applicable to your circumstances. Delaying action can jeopardize your ability to collect benefits, so it's wise to consult with Dabdoub Law Firm promptly to understand your rights and timelines.