Some insurance companies offer lifetime disability benefits. They usually come at an additional fee (or premium) and are attached to the policy as an “endorsement” or “rider” to the policy. But not all lifetime coverage is created equal. Some policies – usually those that were issued in the 1980’s or 1990’s – merely continue your benefits for life without any restrictions or limitations. Benefits under these policies can even increase over time pursuant to a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) provision. These policies offer the broadest possible coverage. Other policies are not so generous. Their coverage may be contingent on when you become disabled or the type of disability that you are suffering from. For instance, some policies provide reduced benefits if you are disabled after age 60. Others provide for reduced benefits if you are disabled as a result of a sickness rather than an injury. The point: it pays to read your policy and know your rights.
If your disability claim has been improperly cut short or outright denied, make sure you contact an attorney who can not only protect your rights, but who can also maximize your recovery under the applicable federal or state law.