Long-term Disability Plans and SS offset

[Guest Julie]

We have a self-insured long-term disability plan which requires LTD recipients to apply for social security benefits within 6 months of disability. Our plan currently, however, does not require the appeal of the SSA's decision, nor do we offer to help the LTD recipient appeal the decision.

I've been asked to find out what other employer's are doing in regard to the above. So, help me out here....

1. Do your plans require an LTD recipient to appeal the SSA's decision?

2. If an appeal is required, does your company provide financial help in the way of attorney's fees?

Thanks everyone!