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If Unum has recently dismissed your long-term disability (LTD) claim, it’s vital to know that you have rights. This article serves as a comprehensive guide on how to navigate through this turbulent time. Unum, a leading insurance company, often denies claims with insufficient justification. Regardless of whether you’re a long-standing beneficiary or a recent applicant, a denial from Unum should not discourage you. Knowledgeable long-term disability lawyers can help you comprehend your rights, challenge unfair dismissals, and ensure you receive the benefits to which you’re entitled. In the face of adversity with a rejected long-term disability claim by UNUM, navigating and understanding the long-term disability appeal process successfully becomes paramount.
Unum Disability Policies: An Overview
- As an established Fortune 500 entity, Unum stands tall amongst the heavyweights in the disability insurance sector, either underwriting your LTD policy or through affiliated companies like Paul Revere or Provident;
- Despite this reputation, Unum has a notorious history of denying justified disability claims;
- Ultimately, the driving factor behind these denials is profit maximization;
- By limiting the number of approved claims, Unum seeks to boost its shareholders’ returns.
Courts have ruled several of Unum’s denials unjust, underlining the company’s use of unfair tactics to increase the number of denials. If you are a recent casualty of an unfair denial by Unum, remember that you are not alone. Our experienced long-term disability attorneys are ready to provide the much-needed assistance.
The Reasons for Unum’s Denial of Your Disability Claim
Unum’s denial of your claim becomes official once you receive the denial letter. This document will list the reasons for the denial, signifying Unum’s decision to terminate your benefits. Unum can deny your claim for various reasons – insufficient medical evidence, hiring medical experts who dispute your disability status, or asserting policy exclusion for your medical condition. However, Unum’s history of wrongful denials implies that the information on the denial letter might be partial, misleading, or outright false.
Receiving a denial letter can trigger stress, especially if you are depending on these benefits for survival. However, you are entitled to legal rights, and if you act promptly, you can contest this decision and reclaim your benefits.
How to Contest a Disability Denial by Unum
In the event of a denial by Unum, you have the right to an administrative appeal if your policy falls under ERISA (the Employee Retirement Income Security Act). Typically, ERISA governs group disability plans procured through an employer. To determine if ERISA applies, you can examine your denial letter. It’s worth noting that ERISA claims have unique properties. For one, ERISA leans in favor of insurance companies and has stringent deadlines. For instance, you have roughly 180 days from the receipt of the denial letter to launch an appeal. ERISA has numerous complex regulations, and we highly recommend consulting with an experienced long-term disability lawyer before filing your appeal.
Essential Components for Your Unum Appeal
ERISA mandates that you must first file an administrative appeal to overturn Unum’s denial before proceeding with any lawsuit. This appeal needs to provide all legal and medical justifications for overturning the denial, and it’s essential to add as much supporting evidence as you can. If your appeal is denied, you will not be permitted to introduce new evidence in court.
Under ERISA rules, you cannot introduce new evidence, conduct “discovery,” or call witnesses during a lawsuit. Thus, it’s crucial to ensure your appeal includes all necessary support for your disability claim, such as:
- Past and present medical records;
- Your doctor’s opinion about your restrictions and work capacity;
- Letters from friends, family, or other witnesses corroborating your disability.
After Appealing Unum’s Rejection
Once you’ve submitted your appeal, Unum has 45 days to review your claim and make a determination. They can either reverse their initial decision or uphold their denial. In some cases, Unum might request an additional 45-day extension if they require more time to review your documents. Following this period, they must deliver their verdict. If your appeal is denied again, ERISA allows you to take legal action and request a judge to review your claim. Ideally, Unum will simply grant you the benefits initially promised.
Why You Should Hire a Skilled Long-Term Disability Lawyer
If you wish to contest your Unum disability denial, it’s not advisable to embark on this journey alone. ERISA law is complex, and Unum employs a professional team of medical and legal experts ready to oppose you. By involving a seasoned long-term disability lawyer, you gain a formidable ally to guide you through the process, ensuring your appeal is as strong as possible.
How Unum’s Denial Can Impact Your Future
Unum’s denial could potentially have a significant impact on your future financial security and overall quality of life. If you’re unable to work due to your disability, the benefits you were counting on could be a considerable part of your income. Without these benefits, individuals may struggle to pay for their daily necessities, let alone any unanticipated medical bills or other expenses. It’s essential to remember that you have the right to fight this denial and regain your benefits.
Preparing for The Worst – Measures for Financial Stability
There are several methods to safeguard yourself financially if Unum denies your claim. Some of these include:
| Strategies for Financial Stability | Implementation Steps |
|---|---|
| Building an emergency fund | Save some money that can be readily accessed in case of financial hardship. |
| Seeking alternative income sources | Look for other ways to earn income, such as remote work, if possible. |
| Reducing expenses | Look for areas where you can reduce your spending. |
In conclusion, a denial from Unum should not spell the end of your quest for disability benefits. With the right knowledge and a reliable disability attorney, you can challenge this decision, ensuring that you receive the benefits you deserve. It’s essential to understand your rights, know the reasons behind the denial, and build a strong appeal. Always remember, you are not alone in this fight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, facing a denial from Unum for your long-term disability claim doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the end of the road. It’s crucial to understand your rights, the reasons behind your denial, and the steps available for appeal. Ensure you have comprehensive medical evidence and legal assistance to help overturn such a denial, especially since ERISA-compliant policies tend to favor insurance companies. Engaging an experienced long-term disability lawyer to guide you through this complex landscape is advisable. Walk this path equipped with knowledge and the right support, and restore your rightful benefits.
