It can take some time to successfully file and win your long-term disability case. If you've managed the task, you no doubt want to do what you can to protect and keep your benefits for as long as possible. If you fear you may be at risk of losing said benefits at some point in the future, here are some tips that might help.

Read Your Insurance Policy or Benefits Paperwork

First things first, you need to know exactly what the paperwork says. Are you only receiving coverage for a certain number of years? Can you file for an extension? Are you receiving benefits for no longer being able to perform a specific kind of work but you will be expected to find at least some of job within a certain time frame? Read the fine print and know what is expected of you before you move forward.

Hire an Attorney

If it's too late to read the paperwork because you've already lost your benefits, don't panic. A long-term disability attorney may be able to help you get things back on track. He or she may be able to find an exception in your local state's laws that will allow you back on the plan. He or she could also check for errors in the decision-making process that was used to remove your benefits. Sometimes, just getting a letter from a lawyer may be enough to temporarily get your benefits restored while your case is sent for further review.

Avoid Doing Anything That Could Be Used Against You

While your case is under review, you should know that your behavior might be watched closely by those with the power to make a decision. For example, if it is found out that you are lifting heavy objects or doing some other type of task that you are not supposed to be doing with your disability, this could be used as evidence against your claim. It's hard enough to "beat the system" as it is, don't give the person reviewing your claim any additional ammunition to use against you.

Whether you fear losing your long-term disability benefits in the future or you've already lost them, you should know that you may have some recourse available to you. Read the fine print on your paperwork, make sure you are still doing everything correctly and then contact an attorney for further assistance. A good attorney may be able to get your benefits restored and your life back on track. For more information, contact lawyers like Scott E. Shaffman Attorney At Law.