What to Do If Your Insurer Claims You’re No Longer Disabled

Receiving long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide crucial financial support when you’re unable to work due to a disabling condition. However, many claimants face an unexpected challenge: their insurance company may decide they’re no longer disabled and terminate their benefits. This can leave you feeling frustrated, anxious, and unsure of your next steps.

Here, our nationwide claims attorneys at Disability Insurance Law Group explain why understanding how to respond to such a claim is essential for protecting your rights and securing the benefits you deserve.

Why Insurers Claim You’re No Longer Disabled

Insurance companies are profit-driven businesses, and reducing the number of claims they pay is in their financial interest.

Common reasons insurers give for determining that you’re no longer disabled include:

• Surveillance Evidence: Insurers may use video or photographic surveillance to argue that your activities are inconsistent with your reported limitations.
• Independent Medical Exams (IMEs): They might arrange for an IME and use the results to assert that your condition has improved.
• Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs): Results from FCEs may be interpreted to suggest you’re capable of returning to work.
• Change in Policy Definition: Some LTD policies shift from an “own occupation” definition of disability to an “any occupation” standard after a certain period, making it harder to qualify for benefits.
• Insufficient Medical Updates: A lack of updated medical records or physician statements may lead insurers to question the severity of your condition.

Steps to Take If Your Benefits Are Terminated

If your insurer claims you’re no longer disabled, taking the right steps quickly can make a significant difference:

• Review the Termination Letter: Carefully read the insurer’s letter to understand the reasons for terminating your benefits. Note any deadlines for appealing the decision.
• Request Your Claim File: Obtain a copy of your complete claim file from the insurance company. This file contains all the evidence to justify their decision and will be critical for preparing your appeal.
• Gather Additional Medical Evidence: Work with your treating physician(s) to gather updated medical records, test results, and a detailed statement supporting your continued disability. Ensure your doctor directly addresses the reasons cited by the insurer.
• Document Your Limitations: Keep a journal of your daily activities and limitations to show how your condition affects your ability to work and perform routine tasks.
• File an Appeal: Submit a well-documented appeal to the insurance company, addressing their specific reasons for termination. Include medical evidence, expert opinions, and any other relevant information.
• Consult a Disability Insurance Attorney: Navigating an LTD appeal can be complex, especially if your insurer uses aggressive tactics. Our experienced disability attorneys can guide you through the process, strengthen your case, and protect your rights.

How Disability Insurance Law Group Can Help

At Disability Insurance Law Group, we understand how devastating it can be to lose the benefits you rely on. Our experienced attorneys focus on handling LTD claims and appeals.

We will:

• Review your claim file and termination letter.
• Work with medical and vocational experts to gather evidence.
• Prepare a strong appeal that addresses the insurer’s claims.
• Advocate for you during the appeals process or in court if necessary.

If your insurer claims you’re no longer disabled and has terminated your benefits, don’t face this challenge alone. Contact our nationwide disability insurance claims attorneys at 954-989-9000 or online for a free consultation. Let us help you fight back and secure the benefits you deserve.