Facing a denial from Unum for long-term disability can be tough, especially when their decision for denial is wrongfully justified. You need to know why it happened and what to do next. Keep reading to learn more about Unum long-term disability denials from our team at BenGlassLaw, a leading disability law firm that works with clients nationwide, where you’ll gain valuable resources on what your next steps should be.
Key Takeaways
Unum is a leading provider of long-term disability insurance, covering various physical and mental health conditions, but understanding your specific policy is crucial.
Claims are often denied due to insufficient medical evidence, policy exclusions, and misleading denial letters, making it essential to carefully review and contest any denials.
Gather comprehensive medical evidence and consider involving experienced legal representation to navigate the appeals process and improve your chances of success.
Understanding Unum Long Term Disability Insurance
Unum is a powerhouse in the disability insurance industry, recognized as the largest provider of group long-term disability benefits in the U.S. and U.K. They offer coverage for a broad spectrum of disabilities, from physical conditions like spinal cord injuries and respiratory diseases to mental health issues such as depression and PTSD. This insurance is designed to provide a safety net, potentially paying up to 60% of your pre-disability income until you reach retirement age.
Understanding the different types of disability insurance Unum offers is essential. There are individual disability insurance policies, which provide higher income protection, and group policies typically provided by employers. Knowing the specifics of your policy can help you navigate the claims process more effectively and understand what benefits you are entitled to.
Common Reasons for Denial of Long-Term Disability Claims by Unum
Facing a Unum disability denial can be disheartening, but understanding why your claim was denied is the first step toward a successful Unum disability appeal. One common reason for denial is insufficient medical evidence. Unum often relies on their own medical professionals to challenge the legitimacy of your disability, which can lead to a denial even if your condition is severe.
Policy exclusions and limitations are another significant hurdle. Unum’s policies might have specific conditions that are not covered, leading to automatic denials. Additionally, denial letters from Unum often contain misleading or incorrect information, which can result in wrongful conclusions about your eligibility for benefits, especially if Unum denied is involved.
Remember that Unum, like many profitable insurance companies, aims to minimize payouts to enhance profitability. This profit-driven approach can lead to a high percentage of long-term disability claims being denied. Understanding these tactics can prepare you to effectively challenge a denial and secure the benefits you deserve.
Steps to Take After Receiving a Denial Letter from Unum
Receiving a denial letter from Unum can feel like a punch to the gut, but it’s important not to accept it at face value. The first step is to carefully review the denial letter, which contains key reasons for the denial and important deadlines. Don’t just accept the denial without question; many claims are wrongfully denied and can be contested successfully.
Next, request a copy of your claim file from Unum. This file includes all the information the insurance company used to make their decision. Appealing the denial and finding an experienced law firm can significantly increase your chances of success.
After doing this for over twenty years, we understand the immense pressure and frustration that comes with having your short-term or long-term disability claim denied. That’s why our firm offers a free denial letter review so that we can use our years of experience to help you navigate these challenging situations. It’s simple, 100% free, and confidential: you can upload your denial letter here and our experienced legal team will examine your case, providing personalized feedback and strategies to strengthen your claim.
Our dedicated team is well-versed in identifying inconsistencies or errors in denial letters that can potentially strengthen your claim. We go above and beyond to ensure that your rights are protected and your case is presented in the best possible light.
How to Strengthen Your Appeal with Medical Evidence
A strong appeal hinges on comprehensive medical evidence. Start by gathering detailed medical records, tests, and treatment notes that support your disability claim. Submitting both pre-existing medical evidence and new documentation can bolster your case.
A detailed letter from your doctor is a critical component of your appeal. This letter should outline their professional opinion on the severity of your condition and how it impacts your ability to work. Remember, the evidence you gather for your appeal is crucial because no new evidence can be introduced later if you take the case to court.
Organizing and presenting this evidence clearly and comprehensively is key to a successful appeal. An experienced attorney can help you gather the necessary documentation and refute Unum’s reasons for denial.
Filing an Administrative Appeal with Unum
Time is of the essence when filing an administrative appeal with Unum. You generally have 180 days to submit your appeal. This period starts from the date you receive the denial letter. This appeal letter should clearly outline the reasons you are contesting the denial and reference all supporting evidence.
Legal Options if Your Appeal is Denied
If your administrative appeal is denied, don’t lose hope. You have legal options, including filing a lawsuit against Unum to seek the benefits you are entitled to. Under ERISA regulations, you can pursue legal action after your appeal is denied.
Filing a lawsuit can be a complex process, but it may yield both retroactive and ongoing disability benefits if successful.
Legal representation like that we offer BenGlassLaw, can be crucial in navigating these complexities and increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Choosing the Right Disability Lawyer for Your Unum Appeal
Selecting the right disability lawyer can make all the difference in your appeal. Experienced disability attorneys have the expertise to build a strong case, gather necessary evidence, and handle the paperwork and appeals process. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can significantly enhance your chances of a successful appeal.
Many disability lawyers offer free consultations to evaluate your case and understand your policy. They often work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your appeal, which eliminates the need for upfront fees and reduces financial stress during the process.
Ensure that you are choosing the right legal representation for your case by looking at their reviews and previous long-term disability denial case results. This can be a make or break decision for your future.
The Role of Vocational Experts in Disability Appeals
Vocational experts can play a pivotal role in disability appeals. These professionals assess how your disability impacts your ability to work and provide testimony that can support your case. Their insights are valuable in demonstrating the practical limitations your condition imposes on your employment capabilities.
Involving a vocational expert can strengthen your appeal by providing a clear, professional perspective on your ability to perform job-related tasks. This can be particularly important if Unum challenges the severity or legitimacy of your disability.
What to Expect During the Appeals Process
Once you’ve filed your appeal, Unum has up to 45 days to make a decision, though they can request a single extension of up to 45 additional days if needed. During this time, Unum may request additional information or clarification on your case.
Understanding this timeline can help you prepare for the waiting period and manage your expectations. Staying proactive and responsive to any requests from Unum ensures your appeal is processed smoothly.
Summary
Facing a Unum disability denial is a daunting experience, but understanding the process and knowing your rights can empower you to fight back. From reviewing the denial letter and gathering strong medical evidence to filing an appeal and seeking legal counsel, each step is crucial in securing the benefits you deserve.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Our team at BenGlassLaw is available to guide you through the complexities of the appeals process and ensure you have the best chance of success — no matter where you’re located in the United States. Stay proactive, informed, and persistent in your pursuit of justice.
Contact our team today for a free, zero obligation consultation to learn how we can help you.
