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Claims Corner

3 Questions to Ask Carriers About SSDI Referrals

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Some recent news reports suggest that disability insurance companies are overwhelming the Social Security Administration with applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Lawsuits have been filed against some carriers alleging that their practices force many people who file disability claims with them to also apply for SSDI benefits — even if they clearly do not qualify for the government program.

As an employee benefits adviser you need to understand how the carriers you recommend to your clients handle SSDI referrals so that there are no surprises when an employee files a claim. Here are three questions you should ask disability carriers about their practices:

  1. Do you hire outside experts to help determine which disabled employees should apply for SSDI benefits?
  2. What percentage of disabled employees that you refer to the Social Security Administration is approved for SSDI benefits?
  3. Do you offer disabled employees help with the SSDI application process?

SSDI benefits are an important source of income for disabled employees who qualify. The Social Security program offers some advantages that the typical LTD insurance plan does not, including cost-of-living adjustments, eligibility for Medicare and continued accrual of credits towards Social Security retirement. However, it’s equally important that you align your clients with carriers who are willing and able to take on the risk for which your clients pay premiums.