UNUM Long Term Disability (LTD) Cases

UNUM Long-Term Disability Claims: How Raval Trial Law Can Help

If you’ve filed a long-term disability (LTD) claim with UNUM and faced delays, denials, or wrongful terminations of benefits, you are not alone. UNUM is one of the largest disability insurance providers in the United States, but it has a long history of disputes involving unfair claims practices. At Raval Trial Law, we understand the complexities of LTD claims and are dedicated to fighting for your right to the benefits you deserve.

UNUM Long Term Disability

Common Issues with UNUM Long Term Disability Insurance Claims

Policyholders often encounter various obstacles when dealing with UNUM Provident Long Term Disability, including:

  • Unjustified Denials: UNUM frequently denies valid claims without sufficient reason, often citing a lack of medical necessity or deeming the claimant capable of working despite medical documentation to the contrary.
  • Delayed Payments: Many claimants experience long delays in the processing and approving of their benefits, causing financial strain.
  • Surveillance and Biased Medical Reviews: UNUM has been known to use surveillance tactics and employ biased medical consultants to justify denying or terminating benefits.
  • Policy Misinterpretation: The company often interprets policy terms in ways that favor their bottom line rather than their policyholders.
  • Unfair Termination of Benefits: Even after initially approving a claim, UNUM may later revoke benefits without substantial evidence of improvement in the claimant’s condition.

How to Strengthen Your UNUM LTD Claim

Given UNUM’s aggressive tactics, it’s essential to build a strong case when filing a disability claim. Consider these steps:

  • Comprehensive Medical Documentation: Ensure all medical records are up-to-date and include detailed physician notes that explicitly confirm your disability. Also submit diagnostic imaging (MRI, X-rays, bloodwork) and reports from specialists.
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCE): These assessments objectively measure your physical and cognitive limitations and provide strong evidence against claim denials.
  • Consistent Treatment Records: Regular visits to doctors and specialists help demonstrate ongoing disability and prevent UNUM from arguing that you are improving.
  • Expert Medical Opinions: A second opinion from an independent specialist can add credibility to your claim and counteract biased insurer assessments.
  • Detailed Symptom Journal: Keeping a pain diary that tracks daily symptoms and limitations can strengthen your claim.
  • Understand Policy Terms – Does your policy define disability as “own occupation” (unable to do your current job) or “any occupation” (unable to do any work at all)? Many denials happen when the definition shifts.
  • Watch Out for Surveillance Tactics – Unum may monitor social media activity or hire private investigators to find reasons to deny your claim. Be cautious about what you post online.
  • Legal Representation: An experienced LTD attorney can help interpret policy language, compile strong evidence, and challenge wrongful denials.

Your Legal Rights Against UNUM

Insurance companies are required to act in good faith when handling claims. If UNUM has wrongfully denied your claim, delayed your payments, or unfairly terminated your benefits, you have legal options. Courts have repeatedly ruled against UNUM in bad faith insurance practices, and policyholders can challenge wrongful claim denials.

At Raval Trial Law, we specialize in holding UNUM accountable for unfair LTD claim practices. Our experienced attorneys understand insurance law and the tactics that companies use to deny rightful benefits.

How to Appeal a Denied UNUM LTD Claim

If UNUM has denied your claim, taking immediate action is crucial. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Review the Denial Letter Carefully: Understand the specific reasons why UNUM denied your claim. This letter will outline the insurer’s justification, which can help determine the best course of action.
  2. Gather Strong Medical and Occupational Evidence: Additional medical records, physician statements, and expert opinions can strengthen your case. If UNUM claims you are capable of working, securing a detailed report from your doctor can help counter that argument.
  3. File a Formal Appeal: Under ERISA law, you usually have 180 days to file an appeal. Your appeal should address every issue UNUM cited in the denial and include new evidence supporting your claim.
  4. Seek Legal Representation: Working with an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of success. At Raval Trial Law, we build compelling appeals and fight aggressively to reverse wrongful denials.

How Raval Trial Law Can Help

Our legal team has extensive experience in handling LTD disputes with major insurers like UNUM. We offer:

  • Thorough Case Evaluations: We will assess the specifics of your case to determine the best legal strategy.
  • Assistance with Appeals: If your claim was denied, we will gather the necessary medical and occupational evidence to build a strong appeal.
  • Litigation Against UNUM: If necessary, we are prepared to take legal action against UNUM for wrongful claim denials.
  • Negotiations for Fair Settlements: We work to secure the full benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
UNUM Long Term Disability

The Importance of Legal Representation

Given Unum’s history of wrongfully denying long-term disability claims, it’s crucial for policyholders to be aware of their rights and the potential challenges they may face when filing a claim. Understanding how to deal with common problems in long-term disability claims can be invaluable in navigating the process successfully.

For many claimants, a lawyer experienced in handling long-term disability claims can significantly improve their chances of receiving the benefits they deserve. Legal professionals can help claimants understand policy exclusions, gather necessary evidence, and effectively challenge claim denials.

At Raval Trial Law, we understand the complexities of long-term disability claims and the challenges posed by insurance companies like Unum. We have regularly handled cases against Unum and will continue to do so. We are dedicated to advocating for people who need help to secure the benefits they need and deserve. If you’re facing difficulties with a long-term disability claim, contact us to learn how we can assist you in navigating this challenging process and fighting for your rights.
If you are struggling with an LTD claim denial from UNUM, don’t navigate the process alone. The team at Raval Trial Law is here to fight for you. Contact us today at (713) 324-8118 for a free consultation and let us help you secure the benefits you deserve.

Common FAQs About Unum LTD Insurance Claims

UNUM provides monthly payments based on a percentage of your pre-disability earnings after you complete a waiting period (also called the elimination period). You must submit medical evidence proving that your condition prevents you from working. Some policies cover only your current job, while others require proof that you cannot perform any occupation. UNUM may conduct medical reviews, surveillance, and claim reassessments over time to determine if you still qualify for benefits.

You must prove you’re unable to perform your essential job functions due to a medically supported impairment. Some policies require proving you can’t work in any occupation.

Most UNUM LTD policies cover 50-70% of your pre-disability salary, subject to a monthly cap. The exact amount varies depending on your policy terms. Some high-income professionals may have additional coverage limits, and benefits could be reduced if you receive other income sources like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or workers’ compensation.

A lawyer can help if UNUM denies, delays, or terminates your claim unfairly. They ensure proper documentation, handle appeals, and, if needed, take legal action to secure your benefits.

The length of time UNUM will continue paying long term disability benefits varies based on your policy. Some plans cover disabilities for a few years. On the other hand, others extend coverage up to age 65 or until retirement age.

If your employer paid the premiums pre-tax, benefits are taxable. If you paid with after-tax dollars, they’re usually tax-free. Check your policy for tax details.

The duration of UNUM’s LTD benefits varies based on your specific policy terms. Generally, benefits continue as long as you meet the policy’s definition of disability, up to a maximum benefit period, often until age 65.

A rushed appeal increases the risk of denial because it may lack the necessary medical evidence, expert opinions, or vocational assessments. UNUM often looks for inconsistencies in claims, so it’s crucial to prepare a detailed and well-documented appeal. A strong appeal should address the reasons for denial, include comprehensive medical records and provide statements from treating physicians. A strategic and thorough appeal improves your chances of approval.

Yes. If UNUM continues to deny your claim despite strong evidence, you can file a lawsuit under ERISA or state insurance laws.

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Amar Raval

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