Getting long-term disability benefits can be challenging. Depending on your situation, you might need to go through a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) to see if you qualify for these benefits. Knowing what these evaluations are, how they work, and what they involve can help you be prepared when applying for long-term disability benefits.
What are functional capacity evaluations?
Functional Capacity Evaluations are detailed assessments that check your physical and mental abilities. They help decide if you can do your job well and safely. These evaluations look at how your disability affects you and whether you can return to work. They give a detailed report on what you can and cannot do, which is important for long-term disability claims.
How do they work?
Licensed health care professionals, such as physical or occupational therapists, usually conduct FCEs. The process can last several hours or even a few days, depending on how complex your case is. During the evaluation, you’ll be asked to do tasks similar to your job duties. These tasks are designed to check your:
- Physical strength
- Mental sharpness
- Endurance
- Flexibility
- Mental flexibility
The evaluator watches and records how you perform, noting any challenges or limitations. They then put together a report that explains your abilities and any restrictions you might have.
What do they involve?
Common assessments include:
- Strength and endurance: Assessors may ask you to lift, carry, push, or pull objects to check your muscle strength and stamina.
- Flexibility and range of motion: These tests measure how well you can move your joints and muscles, important for tasks like bending, reaching, or twisting.
- Posture: This involves checking how well you can sit, stand, or walk for long periods.
- Motor skills and coordination: These tests assess your ability to do tasks like gripping, pinching, or handling small objects.
- Cognitive and emotional skills: Sometimes, evaluators assess your mental skills and emotional control, especially if your job involves thinking tasks.
Your evaluation might change based on your job type, the tasks you do, and your specific injury or disability.
How these evaluations can help with long-term disability claims
FCEs provide solid proof of your functional limits, which is helpful when filing a long-term disability claim. Insurance companies often need detailed documents to confirm how serious your disability is and how it affects your ability to work.
Having the right guidance is crucial
Filing for long-term disability can be tough, especially with all the paperwork and evaluations needed. But you don’t have to do it alone. You can find a knowledgeable professional who can help you collect documents, get ready for evaluations, and appeal claim denials.