Bringing a new life into this world is a blessing unlike any other. But it often comes with some difficulty. All women must adjust their lifestyle to protect their growing bump, but some are put on bed rest for serious conditions like pre-eclampsia, blood clots, or bleeding. Many women whose ability to work during pregnancy is limited wonder if they qualify for disability. At the Seelig Law Group, we help women in New York City get short term disability and any other benefits they may qualify for.

Is Pregnancy A Disability?

The Social Security Administration (SSA), which administers our nation’s Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs does not consider pregnancy a disability.

The SSA defines a disability as something that:

• prevents the employee from working, and
• has lasted for at least 12 months, is expected to last for 12 months, or will result in death.

Since it is unlikely that even the most serious pregnancy-related conditions will last for 12 months, Social Security disability benefits are typically not available to pregnant women. However, a short-term disability insurance policy may cover pregnancy-related illnesses.

Short-Term Disability Insurance

Some pregnant women are entitled to disability benefits through private disability insurance. Disability insurance is meant to be a safety net in the event that an individual becomes so injured or ill that they are unable to work.

Policies can either be purchased by the individual or by an employer on behalf of the individual. Unlike many other employer-issued disability benefits, disability insurance can be used whether a person is injured on or off the job, so pregnancy-related illnesses are often covered.

New York City residents who need help applying for short-term disability benefits, or appealing the denial of an application for benefits can count on the Seelig Law team.

Our experienced attorneys will comb through the relevant policy agreement to determine if a particular condition is covered. We will then pull together evidence that shows coverage is appropriate, and should be awarded as quickly as possible.

If a claim is still denied, we can go through the carrier’s internal appeals process to try and get their decision reversed. Our involvement shows the carrier this is a case that should be reviewed carefully because we will not hesitate to bring a lawsuit if they do not cover someone they should.

When Winning Matters Most

Pregnant women who are no longer able to work should not hesitate to file a short-term disability claim. Unless the policy specifically says it does not cover pregnancy, this is exactly the sort of thing it exists for.

Anyone who needs help taking full advantage of their short-term disability benefits, or appealing the denial of a claim for benefits, should contact the experienced disability attorneys at Seelig Law Offices. Our attorneys will analyze your case and see how we can help you get the benefits you are entitled to receive. You may have several legal options.