When you file a long-term disability (LTD) claim, you’re counting on your insurance company to support you during one of the most difficult times of your life. Unfortunately, many claimants are blindsided by unjust denials, delays, or requests for endless documentation, even when their disability is well-documented.
Insurance companies like CIGNA, Hartford, Aetna, UNUM, and New York Life Insurance have long histories of using deceptive and calculated tactics to deny legitimate LTD claims. Understanding these strategies can help you recognize red flags and act before it’s too late.
- They Misuse “Independent” Medical Reviews
Many insurance companies will order a so-called “independent medical examination”, often using doctors they pay regularly. Make no mistake, these are nothing but Insurance Medical Examinations (IME).
For example, insurance companies like UNUM and Hartford have been criticized for relying on biased consultants who downplay or outright dismiss claimants’ conditions.
This allows the insurance company to claim your medical evidence is “inconsistent,” creating grounds for denial even when your treating physician strongly supports your disability.
- They Delay Until You Give Up
Long-term disability carriers such as CIGNA and Hartford may request repeated rounds of documentation, forms, and clarification to wear you down or run out the clock on deadlines. These delays can create immense financial stress and pressure claimants into abandoning valid claims.
If you’ve ever heard, “We’re still reviewing your file,” for months on end, you’re likely experiencing this tactic firsthand.
- They Misrepresent Policy Terms
Some insurance companies exploit vague or technical language in their policies to justify a denial. For instance, a claim might be denied based on an alleged lack of objective evidence, even when such proof isn’t required by the policy.
New York Life and others have been known to apply stricter “own occupation” definitions than originally advertised, especially when claims transition to “any occupation” phases.
- They Spy on You
Surveillance is a common—yet often undisclosed—tactic. Disability insurance companies like UNUM and Hartford have used private investigators to capture claimants performing everyday tasks, such as walking the dog or shopping for groceries. These clips are then used out of context to argue that you are not truly disabled.
- They Use Your Social Media Against You
Posts on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn can be twisted to suggest you’re more capable than you are. Something as innocent as smiling in a photo can be taken out of context and used to challenge your credibility.
Even if your posts are private, insurance companies can monitor them through connections, tags, or metadata.
How to Protect Yourself
If you’ve been denied a long-term disability claim—or suspect your insurance company is working against you—don’t try to fight them alone. These companies have strategies designed to minimize payouts.
What you need is a legal team that understands its playbook and knows how to fight back.
At Raval Trial Law, we help clients take on insurance companies like CIGNA, Hartford, Aetna, UNUM, and New York Life with aggressive advocacy and deep experience in long-term disability claims.
Next Steps
- Don’t ignore or delay a denial letter—strict appeal deadlines apply.
- Keep detailed records of all communication.
- Consult with an experienced LTD attorney before responding to the insurance company.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you protect your right to the benefits you paid for.
We’ll help you understand your options and fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
