Why Was My ERISA Disability Claim Denied?

An ERISA disability claim denial can be devastating, and unfortunately, there are many reasons why such claims are denied. If you have recently suffered an ERISA disability claim denial, it is imperative that you hire an experienced long-term disability attorney to help you appeal the decision. Denials are often made in error, and a long-term disability attorney can identify whether mistakes were made during the claim review process. Common justifications for ERISA disability claim denials include: 

• Unauthorized treatment 
• Contradicting evidence 
• Employability 
• Policy exclusions
• No medical evidence of a disabling condition
• Incomplete information or errors in the claim
• Missed deadlines
• Pre-existing conditions
• Self-reported symptoms without medical documentation

As noted above, denials are sometimes made in error. And unfortunately, the rules governing ERISA disability claims are highly favorable to the insurance companies, giving them leeway to provide broad or vague reasons for denials. In addition, these companies are immune to civil lawsuits unless a denied applicant can prove that a denial decision was arbitrary and capricious. Luckily, however, there is an appeal process available to individuals who’ve had their claims denied. The appeal process, though, is extremely complex and often stacked in favor of insurance companies. Therefore, if you have recently suffered an ERISA disability claim denial, it is imperative that you hire an experienced long-term disability attorney to help you appeal the decision.

Has your ERISA disability claim been denied? If so, Stansberry Kinsley is here to help. Stansberry Kinsley handles long-term disability claims and appeals. Once you begin receiving your long-term disability benefits, we will provide ongoing advice and counsel to ensure that your rights are protected. At Stansberry Kinsley, we understand the effect that a disabling physical or mental condition can have on your life, and we will seek benefits that assist you as you move forward. We handle each case on an individual basis, as we understand that everyone’s circumstances are different. Whether inside or outside of the courtroom, our experienced attorney is prepared to fight for you. Please contact our experienced attorney as soon as possible to set up a free consultation.

Related practice pages: Short-Term Disability · Denied or Ended Benefits · Disability Insurance FAQs.