Imagine you’re working towards a full recovery after a work injury when you receive a letter in the mail from the insurance company. The letter states that the insurance company plans to stop paying your benefits at a certain date. This is known as a Notice of Intent to Discontinue Benefits, and while some people are not surprised by this letter, it may be a complete shock to others. Below, we explain what to do if you unexpectedly receive a NOID in Minnesota.
Steps To Take After Receiving a NOID
The first thing you’ll want to do after receiving your NOID is to read it fully. On the letter, there should be a section that explains why your benefits are being discontinued. Here are the four reasons your benefits can be discontinued:
- Returned to work at full wage
- Returned to work at reduced hours or wage
- Your benefits have expired after the maximum amount of weeks
- Other reasons (which are further explained in the letter)
If this isn’t unexpected, you may see a reason like “Returned to work at full wage.” However, if you don’t understand the reasoning, the information is incorrect, or you believe the insurance company has made a mistake, you need to reach out to your workers’ compensation lawyer right away.
First, your lawyer will look at the letter and try to reason why the insurance company came to their decision. If the letter is valid, your lawyer can walk you through your additional options, which may include filing for temporary partial disability. However, if the letter is incorrect or you believe your benefits are being discontinued too early, you’re going to want to file what’s known as a Employee’s Request for Administrative Conference on Discontinuance of Workers’ Compensation Benefits. You don’t want to drag your feet when you receive this letter, because you only have 12 days after the notice is issued or 30 days after you return to work to request this hearing.
Another route you and your attorney can pursue is by filing an Employee’s Objection to Discontinuance, which involves requesting a formal hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge within 60 days. Both processes are similar in nature, but your lawyer can explain the benefits of each and which hearing might be best for your situation.
NOIDs can be concerning, especially if you do not believe that your benefits should be terminated. If you receive a NOID, make sure you reach out to a Minnesota workers’ compensation law firm like Hey Workers. We’ve helped people rightfully challenge and win extended benefits after the insurance company tried to discontinue their benefits. Make sure you get what you deserve, and the best way to do that is with an experienced legal team like Hey Workers at your side.
