Top Reasons Your Long Term Disability Claim Was Denied

With over 20 years of practice and skill handling disability insurance denials, the long term disability lawyers of the Law Offices of Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC have seen a variety of reasons insurers deny claims. Disability claims can be denied for several reasons, most of which can be avoided. If you have been denied long term disability benefits it is essential you get the legal advice you need to appeal your claim denial. Our long term disability attorneys know what it takes to win an appeal and are here to answer your questions. Here are the most common denial reasons we have seen:

Video Surveillance 

Be aware that insurance companies hire investigators to follow you and take surveillance video. If investigators document you performing any activities that are inconsistent with your stated disability, your claim can be denied. Comply with your doctor’s restrictions and advice to avoid the threat of video surveillance. Do not engage in activities that you have been medically advised not to do.

Objective Evidence

It is important to provide supporting medical evidence that accurately and specifically describes how your injury or illness impacts your daily activities. Claims reviewers like clear, objective medical evidence of your disability. Objective evidence can include laboratory reports, treating physician medical reports and x-ray reports. If your claim is denied for this, it is time to contact an experienced disability attorney to review your file and build a legal action against your insurer.

Clerical or Procedural Errors 

Failing to submit all required documentation in a timely manner can result in a claim denial. Make sure your claim includes properly completed and filed documents. 

Inadequate Medical Evidence 

Insurers may deny your claim due to a lack of evidence, especially when your medical conditions are improperly documented. To boost your claim, a long term disability lawyer can help you obtain a detailed opinion from your doctor regarding your work-related medical limitations.

Failure to Meet the Definition of Disability 

The most common reason why insurance companies deny a claim is because it fails to meet the precise current definition of disability. It is necessary to understand what is covered by your policy and what criteria must be met in order for you to qualify. Also, check your policy summary plan for any limitations and excluded conditions. 

Social Media Investigation 

Insurance companies can deny your claim if they find evidence portrayed that contradicts the evidence you provided. Insurers commonly search and monitor your social media accounts and online activity. They are looking for examples of behavior to prove your disability is not as restricting as you claim. At your initial meeting with your attorney you should disclose whether you have social media accounts and if you are active on any social media.

Contact an Attorney to Appeal Your Claim Denial

Insurers are looking for evidence of how your disability prevents you from performing your occupation duties. Insurance companies will vehemently look for reasons to deny your claims in an effort to prevent fraudulent claims and to protect their own interests. Contact a Glen Burnie, MD long term disability lawyer who will protect your interests. The Law Offices of Steinhardt, Siskind and Lieberman, LLC will help you recover the long term disability benefits you deserve. If your claim has been denied, we will file an appeal on your behalf, obtain additional documentation to support your appeal and advocate for you against the insurance company. We conveniently have satellite offices in Owings Mills, Ellicott City and Annapolis to serve you.

Resource:

dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/publications/filing-a-claim-for-your-health-or-disability-benefits