Understanding Union Disability Benefits
Union disability benefits typically come from a collectively bargained plan — often funded by employer contributions and administered by a union trust or a joint board. These benefits can include:
Unlike private disability insurance or employer-sponsored ERISA plans, union benefits may be subject to unique rules, timelines, and appeal procedures set forth in the union contract or plan documents.
- Our expertise
Common Reasons Union Disability Claims Are Denied
Even if you’ve paid into your union’s disability plan for years, your claim can still be denied. Common reasons include:
Lack of sufficient medical evidence
Disputes over whether you are “totally disabled”
Missed deadlines or incomplete forms
Plan exclusions or ambiguous contract language
Conflicts between medical findings and employer claims
Insurers or plan administrators may also misclassify your claim, ignore supporting documentation, or fail to follow proper appeal procedures — especially if your plan is governed by ERISA.
How Our Chicago Union Disability Appeals Lawyers Can Help
Attorney William Reynolds has decades of experience representing union members, tradespeople, and workers across a variety of industries. Our Chicago firm knows how union disability plans work, how trustees make decisions, and what it takes to win an appeal.
We assist clients by:
Reviewing your plan documents and denial letter
Gathering and organizing medical and vocational evidence
Coordinating with your doctors to obtain supportive opinions
Writing and submitting a comprehensive appeal package
Representing you in hearings or, if needed, federal court litigation
Whether you belong to a construction union, public employee union, transportation union, or any other labor organization, we’re prepared to protect your rights.
We Represent Union Members From All Sectors
We’ve represented members from:
Building trades (IBEW, UA, LIUNA, Operating Engineers)
Public service unions (AFSCME, SEIU)
Transportation unions (Teamsters, SMART-TD)
Teachers and education professionals
Healthcare and hospital workers
Police and firefighter pension or disability systems
Every union plan is different — but we understand how to navigate them all.
Don’t Miss Critical Deadlines
Union disability appeals are governed by strict time limits. Failing to appeal within the deadline can permanently bar you from receiving benefits. Even if you’re unsure whether your claim is governed by ERISA or another union-based appeals system, we’ll help you identify your rights and the correct process.
Schedule a Free Consultation
If your union disability benefits were denied or cut off, don’t try to navigate the appeals process alone. You need an experienced advocate who understands the legal and contractual complexities of union benefit systems.
Contact Chicago union disability appeals attorneys at Reynolds& today to schedule a free consultation and get the representation you need to fight back and secure the benefits you’ve earned through your years of union service.