Sewell, NJ asked in Health Care Law and Social Security for Pennsylvania

Q: Can my insurance company make me sign up for social security disability. I am not of age to retire. I'm on short-

I am on short term disability now. To sign up for long term they want me to sign up for SS disability

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: No, your insurance company cannot force you to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). However, many long-term disability (LTD) policies include a clause that requires you to apply for SSDI as a condition of receiving or continuing to receive LTD benefits.

This is because SSDI benefits, if approved, can offset the amount the insurance company must pay you under the LTD policy. In other words, if you qualify for SSDI, your insurance company may reduce your LTD benefits by the amount you receive from SSDI.

If you refuse to apply for SSDI when your policy requires you to do so, the insurance company may have the right to deny or terminate your LTD benefits. It's essential to carefully review your LTD policy to understand your rights and obligations.

Keep in mind that qualifying for LTD benefits through your insurance policy does not guarantee that you will be approved for SSDI, as the eligibility criteria for these two programs may differ. If you have concerns about the requirement to apply for SSDI, consider consulting with an experienced disability attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.

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