Why Are So Many NJ Disability Pension Applications Denied?

Why Are So Many Disability Pension Claims Denied in New Jersey?

By definition, every New Jersey state, county, and municipal worker is part of a pension fund. This includes all public employees, policemen, firefighters, and teachers. In theory, if certain New Jersey requirements are met, each of these workers can apply for and receive disability pensions if the need arises.

Unfortunately, many of these disabled employees find themselves facing denials, even though they may desperately need the help of their pensions. Maybe you are one of them.

As New Jersey disability pension appeal lawyers, we see this happen, and too often the decision to deny is not only unfair, but violates workers’ rights. In this article, we will help you to understand more about why New Jersey Disability Pension claims are denied.

The Basics of New Jersey Disability Pension

If someone is injured at work and cannot return to his or her job, then this employee has the right to apply for accidental disability retirement pension. If, however, he or she is denied an accidental pension, then it is possible to apply for and receive an ordinary disability retirement pension.

The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits oversees the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS), the Teachers’ Pension and Annuity Fund (TPAF) and the Police and Fireman’s Retirement System (PFRS).

Even though all three types of pension plans have different requirements, they all share one fact: the promise of help if you become disabled and unable to work.

Why Was Your Disability Application Denied?

While many factors may influence a denial, there are two commonly cited reasons for disability pension denials:

  • Fraud and Deception: A November 2011 Star-Ledger report called public attention to those who cheat the system. One example cited the case of a Newark police officer who was caught driving his car on the Garden State Parkway just days before he was to be awarded a large amount of cash for his claim of blindness. This is just one case of cheating the system.
  • Incomplete Medical Information: The New Jersey Division of Pensions and Benefits requires detailed medical evidence to approve disability pension claims. In general, you must provide copies of all doctor visits and hospital records pertaining to your disability. And all your medical information must be submitted using their online application forms. It is easy to become confused by the requirements and give up.

Let Gaylord Popp Help You Appeal a Disability Pension Denial

Because we have the knowledge, expertise, and caring attitude needed to help you find success, it is certainly worth a phone to call to set up a free initial consultation. We can handle the paperwork, jump through the legal hoops, and help you towards a more certain future. Call us in Trenton today at 888-716-8086. Let’s get started righting the wrong you have suffered.