Long COVID And Denied LTD Claims

Last updated on April 8, 2026

If your long-term disability claim was denied due to post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), commonly known as long COVID, you may wonder, “Why was my long COVID disability denied?” Insurance providers often fail to recognize the severity of long COVID, citing subjective symptoms or a limited understanding of post-COVID conditions. The key to overturning a denied long COVID LTD claim lies in presenting strong, objective medical evidence, including neuropsychological testing for cognitive dysfunction, tilt table testing for POTS, imaging studies and functional capacity evaluations.

At ERISA Law Center, we have over 35 years of experience representing hundreds of claimants in Fresno, California, and across the state, helping them secure the long-term disability benefits they deserve. Our attorneys have achieved strong success in ERISA appeals. We understand the complexity of post-COVID disability claims and work diligently to gather the necessary medical evidence to support each case.

What Is Long COVID, And Why Does It Qualify As A Disability?

Long COVID is the persistent symptoms some individuals experience after recovering from the acute phase of COVID-19. These symptoms can include:

• Severe fatigue
• Cognitive dysfunction (brain fog)
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

When these symptoms limit your ability to perform your job, your condition may qualify as a disability under ERISA. Documented medical evidence of your functional limitations is essential for establishing that long COVID prevents you from working.

Why Insurance Companies Deny Long COVID LTD Claims

Insurance companies frequently deny long COVID claims for several reasons:

• Symptoms are considered subjective: Fatigue, brain fog and dizziness may not appear on standard tests.
• Condition is too new: Some insurers lack understanding of post-COVID conditions.
• Incomplete documentation: Insufficient objective testing can weaken the claim.
• Employer-provided or private LTD limitations: Policies may have narrow definitions of disability.

These denials can feel like a devastating second blow for someone already struggling with persistent health issues.

What Medical Evidence Strengthens A Long COVID Appeal?

Securing a favorable outcome in an ERISA appeal depends on objective medical evidence. The following types of documentation can improve the likelihood of overturning a denied disability claim.

• Tilt table testing for POTS: Confirms abnormal heart rate and blood pressure responses
• Neuropsychological testing: Evaluates cognitive dysfunction and memory issues
• PET scans or MRI: Detects inflammation or structural brain changes
• Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE): Measures physical ability to perform work tasks
• Pulmonary function tests: Assesses respiratory limitations

Presenting comprehensive medical evidence helps prove that long COVID has created functional limitations that prevent claimants from returning to their regular occupations.

What Professions Are Commonly Affected?

In Fresno, California, we represent:

• Health care workers and nurses: Physically and mentally demanding jobs increase the impact of persistent symptoms.
• Teachers and educators: Cognitive fatigue and brain fog affect lesson planning and classroom management.
• Office workers: Prolonged concentration and multitasking challenges can exacerbate symptoms.

These professionals can face additional hurdles when seeking post-COVID disability benefits because insurers underestimate the functional impact of their symptoms.

Understanding The ERISA Appeal Process For Long COVID Denials

An ERISA appeal for a denied long COVID LTD claim follows a structured process:

• Review the denial letter: Identify the reasons the claim was rejected
• Gather objective medical evidence: Include testing, evaluations and physician statements
• Submit a written appeal: Present a detailed argument showing why the claim meets policy definitions
• Request external review if needed: Escalate to independent review for additional consideration

Working with a Fresno ERISA attorney early helps ensure that deadlines are met and all evidence is properly documented to maximize the likelihood of approval.

Why Early Legal Help Matters

Early intervention by a qualified attorney can make a critical difference in your case. We help clients:

• Compile a comprehensive medical record: This makes sure no relevant documentation is overlooked.
• Identify and consult with expert witnesses: Strengthens the credibility of claims.
• Meet strict filing deadlines: California law often requires appeals to be submitted within 180 days.
• Communicate effectively with insurers: Prevents errors or misinterpretations that can lead to denial.

We can help increase the chances of obtaining long COVID post-acute sequelae benefits efficiently if we address these factors early.

How ERISA Law Center Can Help

At ERISA Law Center, our Fresno LTD attorneys have spent over three decades advocating for ERISA claimants. We have represented hundreds of clients in denied long COVID LTD claims and have a proven track record in successful appeals.

Our team understands the nuances of PASC long-term disability claims and works closely with medical professionals to document functional limitations thoroughly. Our goal is to make sure that every long COVID patient has the best opportunity to secure the benefits they deserve.

Take Action On Your Long COVID Denied LTD Claim

If your long COVID LTD claim was denied, ERISA Law Center can review your case.

You do not have to wait for the 180-day ERISA deadline. Call us at 559-549-6490 or contact us online today to consult with a lawyer experienced in denied long COVID disability claims.