Considering an Expert for Long Term Disability Cases
LTD considerations center on which disability definition applies and whether the administrative record supports expert involvement.
Checklist
- Review the LTD policy and definitions
- Review the administrative record
- Obtain medical and functional capacity records
- Estimate the value of expert vocational opinion
Questions to ask the expert
- How does your analysis differ by policy definition?
- How do you handle ERISA's record constraints?
Timeline
1-2 weeks before retention.
Required documents
- Policy
- Administrative record
- Medical records
Common pitfalls
- Skipping the policy definition analysis
- Missing the ERISA record closure deadline
Frequently Asked Questions
Are vocational experts useful in ERISA administrative appeals?
Yes, to strengthen the record before it closes.
References
- U.S. DOL ERISAGovernment
Ready to Get Started on long term disability cases?
Contact KWVRS to discuss scope, timing, and the deliverables appropriate to the matter. Plaintiff and defense.