Some people may not want to pursue their disability insurance claim because of the terminology.  “I don’t want to be considered disabled. I worked hard all my life and I don’t like the stigma that comes with the word ‘disability’.”

Keep in mind that policies typically specify a length of time that qualifies as “long-term disability“. The definition of “long-term disability” is usually different than that of social security, so don’t get hung up on the language.

Seeking long-term disability benefits from a private insurance policy doesn’t mean you will never be able to return to work; however, obtaining benefits for being out of work for a significant time isn’t something to pass up just due to terminology.