Anyone applying for long-term disability insurance in New Jersey can do themselves a big favor by reviewing the common causes for denial. Being prepared for the potential rejection and understanding the likelihood of it happening may help to get through this sometimes challenging process.
Medical condition
Preexisting conditions are the biggest reason why a provider may decline your application for coverage. Those who have chronic conditions also unfortunately chronically have difficulty finding coverage. Providers are much less eager to cover people who are sure to have big medical bills.
Insurance companies look particularly warily at tobacco users. This is based on the fact that those who are smokers or have been in the past have a higher probability of suffering from disabilities, and thus, the insurance company would have a higher bill to the front over the course of your long-term disability coverage.
It may seem morbid and dehumanizing – and, to be sure, it is – but that’s the kind of thinking that insurance companies have to do. Individuals with renal disorders, cancer, arthritis, Parkinson’s, blood disorders, hepatitis, and multiple sclerosis may have barriers to obtaining coverage.
Pending medical procedure
If you have an upcoming surgery, you might have a hard time getting long-term disability coverage. There are countless complications that can arise from surgery, leading to anything from sepsis to a loss of motor function. It might then be best to wait until your surgery is complete before applying for insurance so you don’t end up wasting time on a denied application.
Overweight or underweight
Yes, both. Insurance providers take into consideration a person’s height and weight. They then look at national averages to see if you’re within a healthy weight range for your height.
Those who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk of injury, back problems, heart attacks, and myriad other health concerns. Underweight people, on the other hand, are seen by insurance providers as people who may have health conditions or nervous disorders such as anorexia that may lead to a future disability.
Many people rely on long-term disability coverage to pay for their medical bills. Unfortunately, some of those who need it the most are barred from having access to coverage. The more you understand about causes for denial, the better you’ll be able to navigate the system.
