This form is for a selffunded or selfinsured plan sponsor to opt in to Independent Dispute Resolution, according to Texas Insurance Code Section 1275.002. Under ERISA law, insurance companies and plan administrators are allowed to take up to 105 days (more than three months) to decide the claimant's initial claim.An ERISA plan can be held to exist in the absence of a written plan document or compliance with other ERISA requirements. This GRIST provides a basic primer on ERISA's preemption of state laws, including various exceptions, exclusions and court rulings. Navigating the ERISA claims and appeal process on your own can be tough, but one of our Plano lawyers can assist you to receive the benefits you deserve. Although the ERISA statute applies to some benefit plans, it does not apply to others. You must submit a claim if you decide to pursue benefits under an ERISA plan. With very few exceptions, the act governs all "employee welfare benefit plans," including group disability insurance. The Bottom Line: ERISA ensures uniform rules across states, preventing a costly patchwork of regulations. The ERISA disability claims process is a procedure for employees seeking disability benefits through their employer-provided insurance plans.