The Hartford (The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc.) is just one of more than 40 long term disability insurance companies, but they have the reputation of being one of the most difficult to deal with. The Hartford purchased CNA in 2004.
This is what The Hartford typically does before denying (or terminating) LTD benefits:
The Hartford has established a clear pattern of denying rightful claims in the interest of saving themselves some money.
If you are disabled and can no longer work, you may apply for short term benefits and long term benefits if you own such a policy. If you are an employee and your employer provided LTD insurance as an employee benefit, your claims and lawsuit will be governed by ERISA.
ERISA is a federal law that governs most employee benefits. The most relevant portions of the law are the requirements that:
This is why the appeal is probably the most important phase of the case. You must stuff the administrative file with as much information as possible, because you won't have a chance to later.
Doesn't matter how compelling the information is. You must include it in your appeal, or the judge will not even consider it.
While we can help clients with their initial claim for long term benefits, this is something most people can and want to do on their own.
WARNING: No matter how strong your claims application is, The Hartford can still deny your claim, even with compelling evidence and documentation.
A denial of your application for LTD benefits is not the end of the road, however. You are allowed to appeal this decision. In fact, if your policy is covered by ERISA because it's an employee benefit, you must appeal your decision before moving forward.
WARNING: You have a time limit to appeal The Hartford's Denial. Usually this is 180 days from the day you receive the denial letter. Do not waste any time, and consult with a lawyer immediately. Give us a call at (866) JOE-DANG or (866) 563-3264 and schedule your free, no obligation denial letter review.
As mentioned above, if this is an ERISA case, the appeal of The Hartford's denial is your last chance to introduce evidence of any kind into your case. If The Hartford denies your appeal, and you file a lawsuit in federal court, the court will not consider any new evidence.
With our assistance, your appeal will set you up for the best possible chance at success. We will do this by:
If your Hartford disability claim is denied or terminated, contact our office by filling out the forms below or call us at (866) JOE-DANG or (866) 563-3264 for a case review with an LTD Insurance Lawyer. There is no obligation or cost, so you have nothing to lose.