LONG-TERM DISABILITY BENEFITS

If you are out of work due to a disability and unable to return to work and have exhausted your right to receive short-term disability benefits, you may be entitled to receive long-term disability benefits.  Bertelson Law Offices can assist you with the application and appeals process.

Minnesota’s workers’ compensation benefit system provides benefits to employees who  become injured or ill from their job. Workers’ compensation covers injuries or illnesses caused or made worse by work or the workplace.

If you are injured on the job, you should report your injury to your supervisor as soon as possible or you may lose the right to workers’ compensation benefits. The insurer will then investigate your claim to verify that it was work-related. You should keep your employer informed of your medical condition and any work restrictions. You must notify the insurer of changes in your employment status and keep your employer and the insurer informed of your ability to work.

What happens if my claim for workers’ compensation benefits is accepted?

If the insurer accepts your claim, it must start paying wage-loss  benefits within 14 days of the date your employer was informed of your work injury and lost wages. If your claim is accepted, the insurer will provide payment for the cost of all reasonable and necessary health care treatment related to your work injury.  Prescriptions and reimbursement for mileage to medical appointments are also payable.

What happens if my claim for workers’ compensation benefits is denied?

If the insurer denies your claim for benefits, it must clearly explain the facts and reasons for doing so.  If you disagree with the denial, you should talk with the insurance claims adjustor who is handing your claim. Some unions and employers, especially in the construction industry, have specific procedures that must be followed when resolving disputes. Contact your union representative for further information. If you need help returning to work but your claim has been denied, call the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s Vocational Rehabilitation unit at (651) 284-5038 or 1-800-657-3749 and ask for a rehabilitation consultation.

Bertelson Law Office can assist you if your claim has been denied or if you encounter other difficulties with your claim.

For more information about workers’ compensation benefits, go to the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website at www.doli.state.mn.us.

*THIS MATERIAL IS EDUCATIONAL ONLY. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AND SHOULD NOT SUBSTITUTE FOR LEGAL ADVICE.