Being disabled after an injury or illness can be disorienting and deeply distressing. It may leave you unable to work or carry out your daily activities effectively, all while facing substantial medical expenses. In such circumstances, you naturally expect your individual or employer-provided disability or health insurance to be a reliable safety net. However, many insurance companies refuse to honor claims and try to avoid paying disability benefits.
Big insurance giants like The Hartford cater to millions of policyholders, yet they often prioritize profit by evading the payout of legitimate claims. At times, The Hartford actively seeks pretext to reject your claims.
When The Hartford unjustly denies your claims or resorts to bad-faith practices, you can trust the experienced and dedicated long-term disability (LTD) insurance denial attorneys at Kantor & Kantor for assistance. We are people helping people, and we are ready to fight for your insurance claim after it was denied by The Hartford. Contact our LTD insurance denial attorney at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
We recognize the challenges you face after The Hartford has denied your claim and are committed to meticulously reviewing your case, ensuring accuracy and consistency. We understand that even seemingly minor oversights can have significant consequences, and we are dedicated to rectifying them. We offer a free case evaluation to discuss how our LTD insurance claim denials attorneys can assist you. Contact us now at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
What Is The Hartford Financial Services Group?
The Hartford Financial Services Group, or Hartford Insurance Group (HIG) or The Hartford, is one of the world’s largest insurance companies. With a history spanning over two centuries, this corporation now operates globally, offering insurance products that include automobile, life, health, disability, business, and other domains.
In 2019, The Hartford Financial Services Group reported staggering revenues of $20.74 billion, ranking them among the most valuable companies in the United States. Much of this revenue is derived from individuals like you, who diligently pay their insurance premiums monthly. Regrettably, when it comes to paying claims, there is often either an undue delay or a complete denial, leaving policyholders feeling they have been treated unfairly.
The Hartford frequently rejects claims during what is referred to as the “test change,” or the alteration in the definition of disability, which usually occurs around the 24-month mark of receiving disability benefits. It is common for The Hartford to employ covert surveillance, direct claimants to biased medical examinations, and subsequently deny claims based solely on this manipulated evidence. The Hartford may use “employability assessment reviews” to identify jobs they assert claimants can perform, sometimes even jobs that do not exist in the current job market.
Insurance companies such as The Hartford often resort to varying interpretations of the terms outlined in the policy, ultimately leaving you without the compensation you deserve despite faithfully paying for coverage. These companies maintain teams of formidable lawyers, which can be highly intimidating when you find yourself alone in your fight against them.
Tactics of The Hartford in Denial of LTD Insurance Claims
The Hartford has a reputation for employing dubious strategies to pressure, deceive, or manipulate policyholders into settling for inadequate compensation or abandoning their claims altogether. If you are dealing with unethical insurance practices from The Hartford, you could seek compensation beyond your unfairly denied claims. Below are some tactics The Hartford uses to reject, delay, or terminate your valid disability claim.
1. Ignoring Medical Evidence or Scientific Consensus
One of The Hartford’s most disheartening tactics is intentionally disregarding medical evidence or well-established scientific consensus. They may ignore crucial medical records and expert opinions that support the claimant’s disability. This tactic is designed to create doubt and undermine the claim’s legitimacy.
2. Intentionally Misreading Policy Language to Justify an Exclusion
Insurance policies are complex documents with specific terms and conditions. The Hartford may intentionally misinterpret the language of their policies to justify claim denials. They may exploit ambiguous terms or employ overly narrow interpretations to exclude coverage when, in fact, the policy should provide the necessary benefits.
3. Failing to Provide a Reason for Claim Denial
Claimants often receive denial letters without a clear explanation of why their claim was rejected. The Hartford may withhold crucial information, leaving claimants in the dark about the grounds for denial. This tactic makes it difficult for claimants to appeal the denial.
4. Unreasonably Delaying an Investigation Before Issuing a Decision on the Claim
The Hartford may delay the claims process by conducting prolonged investigations without valid reasons. These delays can create financial strain and emotional distress for claimants who rely on disability benefits.
5. Repeatedly Requesting Unnecessary or Duplicative Documents
The Hartford may engage in a tactic known as “document dumping,” where they continually request redundant or irrelevant information from the claimant. This is done to overwhelm the policyholder and delay the claims process.
6. Requesting an Independent Medical Examination by a Doctor in the Wrong Field
The Hartford often requests independent medical examinations (IMEs) to assess the claimant’s condition. However, they may intentionally select a physician who lacks expertise in the relevant medical field to downplay the severity of the claimant’s condition. This tactic can result in an inaccurate assessment and an unjustified denial of benefits.
7. Field Interviews
The Hartford may send a representative to conduct a face-to-face interview with the claimant. During this interview, they will ask a barrage of questions, hoping to glean information that can be used to justify a claim denial. This tactic is often used to gather inconsistent statements or actions that could be perceived as conflicting with the claimant’s reported disability.
8. Claiming You Are Not Disabled
The Hartford might claim you are not disabled from working in any occupation or can perform sedentary work despite your medical condition. This tactic often relies on the interpretation of policy terms and medical evidence.
9. Relying on DOT Occupation Definition
The Hartford may misrepresent the nature of a claimant’s occupation by applying the general occupation description found in the Department of Labor’s Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT). This can be misleading because it doesn’t account for the specific duties and requirements of the claimant’s unique job.
10. Ignoring the Award of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits
The Hartford often ignores or downplays the significance of a claimant’s approval for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Despite SSDI’s strict criteria, insurers may argue that their definition of disability differs or insist that the SSDI approval is irrelevant to their assessment. It’s important to understand that these are separate benefits, and the approval of SSDI does not guarantee approval of LTD benefits from The Hartford. However, it can still be valuable evidence to support the LTD claim you filed with The Hartford.
What Can I Do if The Hartford Denied My Claim?
There are laws prohibiting unethical insurance practices, but big insurance companies like The Hartford have considerable legal resources to contest your grievances.
If your LTD claim with The Hartford has been denied, you have legal rights and potential avenues for obtaining your deserved compensation. Here are some key actions you can take if your LTD claim has been denied by The Hartford:
- Review the Denial Letter: Start by carefully reviewing the denial letter sent by The Hartford. Understand the reasons for the denial, the policy provisions cited, and the evidence used to support their decision. A clear understanding of their rationale will help you formulate a strong response.
- Request a Full Copy of Your Claim File: Obtain a complete copy of your claim file from The Hartford. This includes all documents, correspondence, medical records, and any other information related to your claim. Your attorney will need this to assess the insurer’s decision thoroughly.
- Collect and Organize Evidence: Gather all relevant medical records, treatment histories, and any other supporting documentation that strengthens your disability claim. Ensure your medical providers are fully aware of the specific requirements for disability claims and are willing to provide detailed reports.
- Consult With an Attorney: Seek legal counsel from experienced lawyers for LTD insurance claim denials. Our lawyer can provide guidance throughout the appeals process and help you navigate the complex legal aspects of your case.
- Prepare an Appeal: Work closely with your attorney to craft a comprehensive and persuasive appeal. Address the insurer’s reasons for denial, provide additional medical evidence, and clarify any misconceptions or misinterpretations of your condition. The appeal should be meticulously structured and supported by strong medical opinions.
- Submit the Appeal on Time: Comply with the appeal deadlines specified in your policy. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your chances of having the denial reversed. Ensure the appeal is submitted on time, preferably before the deadline expires.
- Consider Mediation or Negotiation: Sometimes, mediation or negotiation with The Hartford can lead to a favorable resolution without needing a protracted legal battle. Your attorney can advise you on the best approach based on your circumstances.
- Litigation as a Last Resort: If your appeal is denied or not adequately addressed, you may need to file a lawsuit against The Hartford. Your LTD insurance denial attorney will guide you through the litigation process and represent you in court against The Hartford.
For more information about your legal options and to determine if we can assist with your case against The Hartford, contact our attorneys for denied LTD claims at 818-886-2525.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor?
Choosing the right attorney to represent you in your LTD insurance denial case is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. At Kantor & Kantor, we are committed to advocating for your rights and working tirelessly to help you secure the benefits you deserve. Here are several compelling reasons why you should consider us as your LTD insurance denial attorney:
Specialization in LTD Insurance Claims
Kantor & Kantor focuses on handling LTD insurance claims. Our lawyers for The Hartford LTD insurance claim denials have extensive experience and a deep understanding of LTD insurance and the ever-evolving landscape. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of policyholders who have been unfairly denied benefits.
Fighting Unfair Tactics
We are well-versed in the tactics that insurers often use to deny claims, and we know how to challenge these tactics effectively. Whether they have misinterpreted policy language, relied on questionable medical opinions, or made unfounded allegations of malingering, we will counter these arguments skillfully.
Proven Success
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes for our clients. We have won millions of dollars in denied benefits for policyholders across various industries and medical conditions. Our track record demonstrates our commitment to securing the best results for our clients.
Some cases we have won against The Hartford include:
- Kay v. Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company, 2022 WL 4363444, (9th Cir. 2022)
- Shupe v. Hartford Life & Accident Insurance Company, 19 F.4th 697 (4th Cir. 2021)
- Pottayil v. Hartford & Thyssenkrupp Elevator 574 F.Supp.3d 1282 (USDC, N.D. GA 2021)
- Poisson v. Aetna Life Insurance Company, 488 F.Supp.3d 942 (USDC, C.D. CA 2020).
Personalized Legal Representation
We understand that every LTD insurance claim is unique. Kantor & Kantor provides personalized attention to each client, taking the time to understand your specific situation and needs. We work closely with you to develop a customized approach to your case.
Litigation Experience
While we strive for amicable resolutions, we are prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our attorneys have substantial litigation experience and are unafraid to advocate for your rights in the courtroom.
Compassionate and Supportive Approach
Dealing with a denied disability claim can be emotionally taxing. We approach each case with empathy and sensitivity to the challenges you may be facing. We are here to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process.
Our attorneys at Kantor & Kantor can help you fight the denial of your LTD insurance claim from The Hartford, supporting you every step of the way.
ERISA and The Hartford
The Employee Retirement Income Security Act, commonly referred to as ERISA, establishes guidelines for insurance plans offered by private employers to protect the interests of policyholders. Insurance companies like The Hartford become susceptible to legal action when they fail to adhere to ERISA standards. Currently, The Hartford is entangled in numerous ERISA litigation cases nationwide. Here are a few instances of ERISA violations:
- Neglecting to provide accurate plan details to policyholders, which should outline the scope of coverage
- Failing to meet the expected standards of conduct for plan administrators
- Inadequately protecting the disability plan funds allocated for eligible policyholders
- Omitting instructions for filing benefits claims from policyholders
- Neglecting to provide information about the appeals process in case of claim denial.
Contact Kantor & Kantor to Help When The Hartford Denies Your LTD Insurance Claim
Facing a denied LTD insurance claim from The Hartford can be challenging, but with the right legal representation and a well-prepared strategy, you can increase your chances of overturning the denial and securing the benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
Our lawyers for LTD insurance claim denials can help you challenge The Hartford’s denial. We are committed to advocating for the coverage our clients rightfully deserve and holding The Hartford accountable when they wrongfully reject claims.
We are people helping people, and we fight insurance claim denials from The Hartford for people in California and around the country. Contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
Attorney Glenn R. Kantor
Glenn Kantor is a founding partner of Kantor & Kantor LLP. As a young attorney, Glenn saw the injustice of wrongful insurance denials and created a law firm to represent individuals seeking to obtain their rightful benefits. Glenn is committed to ensure that clients receive the benefits they are entitled to under their insurance policies or group health plans. [Attorney Bio]
