Multiple Sclerosis (“MS”) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes breakdown of the protective covering of the nerves. Symptoms of MS can include numbness, weakness, trouble walking and vision changes. There are different stages of MS which can impact the severity of your symptoms. If you manage a diagnosis of MS, there may be a time where you need to take time off work to treat and stabilize your condition.
If your MS symptoms prevent you from working, you may be eligible for long-term disability (LTD) benefits. Understanding how LTD claims work and how to strengthen your application, is essential to securing financial support.
Quick summary
Multiple Sclerosis can qualify for long-term disability benefits if symptoms such as fatigue, mobility issues, or cognitive impairment prevent you from working. Strong medical evidence and clear documentation of functional limitations are essential for claim approval.
What is long-term disability (LTD)?
Long term disability (“LTD”) is insurance that provides income replacement if you’re unable to work. Medical conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis may make it necessary to apply for long-term disability.
LTD coverage is often available through employer benefits plans and is designed to:
- Replace a portion of your income
- Provide financial stability during prolonged illness or injury
- Support individuals who cannot perform their job duties
Can Multiple Sclerosis qualify for long-term disability?
Yes. Multiple Sclerosis can qualify for long-term disability if your symptoms prevent you from performing the essential duties of your job.
There may come a time when your MS symptoms stop you from working.
However, diagnosis of MS alone may not be enough to approve your LTD benefit, especially if you’ve managed the condition for some time. You will need to:
- Demonstrate restrictions
- Establish functional limitations
- Provide medical evidence
The more detail you and your doctor are able to provide, the better.
Insurance companies focus on how your symptoms affect your ability to work, not just the diagnosis itself.
Key steps when claiming LTD for Multiple Sclerosis
Submitting an LTD application requires three forms.
- A plan member statement
Completed by you (the applicant), detailing how MS affects your daily functioning and ability to do your job duties
- An attending physician statement
Completed by your doctor, outlining:
- Symptoms
- Restrictions
- Limitations
- An employer statement
A form filled out by your employer, describing your job duties and work requirements
What improves approval chances?
The most important factor in an LTD claim is clearly explaining how your symptoms prevent you from working.
- Be specific about:
- Fatigue levels
- Cognitive difficulties
- Mobility limitations
- Frequency of flare-ups
- Ensure your doctor:
- Provides detailed notes
- Connects symptoms to work limitations
Causes & symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
There is no known single cause of MS. However, many genetic and environmental factors have been shown to contribute to its development.
Common MS symptoms include:
- Numbness
- Weakness
- Double or blurry vision
- Fatigue
- Slurred speech
- Mood changes
MS symptoms vary from person to person and may worsen during flare-ups. Symptoms may also change depending on which nerve is affected. This can significantly affect daily life and work capacity.
Types of Multiple Sclerosis
Types of MS include:
- Relapsing-remitting MS
- Secondary-progressive MS
- Primary-progressive MS
- Clinically isolated syndrome
- Radiologically isolated syndrome
MS types depend on symptom progression and how often a relapse occurs.
How MS impacts your ability to work?
Common work-related challenges include:
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Chronic fatigue
- Trouble concentrating or processing information
- Vision impairments
Overall functioning can become increasingly difficult during a flare up of symptoms.
Many individuals are unable to perform even basic job duties, making continued employment unrealistic.
Does Multiple Sclerosis Count as a Disability?
Yes. Multiple Sclerosis is recognized as a disability if it results in functional impairment that prevents you from working.
You can apply for disability insurance benefits by following the steps noted above.
Eligibility for LTD depends on:
- Severity of symptoms
- Impact on job performance
- Supporting medical evidence
What if your LTD claim is denied?
It’s common for insurance companies to deny legitimate disability claims.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Insufficient medical evidence
- Lack of objective findings
- Failure to prove work limitations
- Incomplete paperwork
A denial does not mean your claim is invalid.
How a disability lawyer can help?
If you’ve submitted a disability claim related to your MS which has been wrongfully denied, it’s time to speak to an experienced disability lawyer.
A disability lawyer can:
- Review your denial
- Help gather stronger evidence
- File an appeal
- Start legal action if necessary
Early legal guidance can significantly improve your chances of success.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get disability insurance benefits for Multiple Sclerosis?
Yes. You can qualify for long-term disability benefits if your MS symptoms prevent you from performing your job duties.
Is a diagnosis of MS enough for LTD approval?
No. You must show how your symptoms limit your ability to work, supported by medical evidence.
Why are MS disability claims denied?
Claims are often denied due to lack of detailed medical evidence or failure to demonstrate functional limitations.
How long can you receive LTD benefits for MS?
The duration depends on your policy.
Conclusion
Living with Multiple Sclerosis can create significant challenges in both daily life and employment. While long-term disability benefits are designed to provide financial support, the claims process can be difficult.
Understanding your rights and taking the right steps early can make all the difference in securing the benefits your rightfully owed.
How Whitten & Lublin can help?
If your long-term disability claim for Multiple Sclerosis has been denied, you don’t have to navigate the process alone.
The disability legal team at Whitten & Lublin can guide you through your options on how to appeal the denial or commence legal proceedings to challenge the LTD denial.
Whitten & Lublin offers free consultation for short- and long-term disability denials.
Contact us online or call (416) 640-2667 today.
