Discovering that your long-term disability (LTD) insurance claim with NY Life has been denied can be an emotionally overwhelming experience. Insurance claim denials can occur for many reasons, ranging from issues related to medical evidence to disputes over the nature and extent of your disability.
At Kantor & Kantor, we recognize the profound impact that such a denial can have on your life, financial stability, access to essential medical care, and overall well-being. A denial from NY Life is not the end of the road; it is merely a setback we are fully prepared to address head-on.
Our firm represents individuals who have been wrongfully denied insurance benefits. We understand the tactics and strategies employed by insurance companies like NY Life, and we approach each case with meticulous attention to detail and a relentless pursuit of justice. We leave no stone unturned in our efforts to overturn the denial and secure the benefits you are entitled to under your policy.
Contact us at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation. We are people helping people, and we will advocate for your rights in this fight for justice. We will ensure that your rights are upheld and that you have the best possible chance of securing the benefits crucial to your financial stability and peace of mind.
We recognize the challenges you face after a New York Life LTD claim denial and are committed to meticulously reviewing your case, ensuring accuracy and consistency. We offer a free case evaluation to discuss how our attorneys can assist you. Contact us now at 818-886-2525 for a free consultation.
What Is New York Life Insurance?
New York Life, a leading insurance powerhouse with a multibillion-dollar valuation, specializes in offering various insurance policies, like long-term disability coverage. Individuals associated with organizations that procure LTD disability insurance from New York Life have a legitimate expectation that the company will fulfill its obligations by disbursing benefits when covered individuals encounter disabling injuries or illnesses.
Despite these expectations, the reality does not always match up. In some cases, individuals with valid long-term disability claims under policies issued by New York Life face obstacles when attempting to access their entitled benefits. New York Life may unjustly deny legitimate claims or engage in payment delays, leading to additional financial burdens such as late payment charges, damaged credit, or even bankruptcy.
It is important to note that it is illegal for New York Life to deny or contest valid disability insurance claims. New York Life has faced multiple lawsuits from customers alleging unfair or dishonest dealings. If you have experienced unfair annuity practices, illegal insurance practices, or any other instances of bad faith behavior from New York Life Insurance, you may be entitled to compensation through an insurance bad faith claim.
Our NY Life LTD insurance claim denial attorneys will assert your rights and secure your rightful benefits. Our lawyers for NY Life LTD insurance claim denials understand the intricacies of dealing with such insurance companies and are well-versed in navigating the complexities of their benefit offerings.
What Are Common Reasons New York Life Denies LTD Claims?
Understanding the reasons behind the denial is crucial to developing a strong and effective strategy for an appeal. Here are some common reasons why NY Life may deny your long-term disability insurance claim:
- Insufficient Medical Evidence: Failure to provide adequate medical evidence to support your claim rests solely on you. It is crucial to provide medical records demonstrating your disability, as the insurance company is not obligated to gather this evidence. You must exert every effort to collect and submit all pertinent documentation.
- Policy Exclusions: Policy exclusions may come into play. New York Life reserves the right to determine whether your condition was pre-existing or your policy specifically excludes coverage for certain medical issues.
- Missing Medical Records: Any absence of medical records, including clinical notes from your doctor, could lead to a denial of your claim. Therefore, it is vital to include all relevant medical evidence, including notes from specialists, when filing your disability claim.
- Failure to Adhere to a Prescribed Treatment Plan: Most long-term disability patients receive treatment plans from their healthcare providers. If there is no evidence that you followed this plan, which could involve anything from physical therapy to mental health counseling, depending on the diagnosis, your claim is likely to be denied. Continuous treatment is crucial in demonstrating your inability to work.
- If Your Condition Does Not Align With the Policy’s Definition of “Total Disability”: After two years, your status may transition from being unable to perform your job to being unable to perform “any” job based on your education, experience, and skills. At this juncture, insurance companies often contend that disability status has changed.
- Missed Deadlines or Procedural Errors: Insurance companies, including NY Life, often have strict deadlines for filing claims and providing necessary documentation. Failure to adhere to these deadlines or procedural errors in the application process can lead to claim denials.
- Insufficient Vocational Evidence: Some LTD insurance claims require evidence of how your disability affects your ability to perform your job. NY Life may deny your claim if they believe there is insufficient vocational evidence.
Our attorneys at Kantor & Kantor will help you gather all medical records and other documentation to help you fight your New York Life LTD Insurance claim denial.
Tactics Used by NY Life to Deny Insurance Claims
Some common unfair tactics used by NY Life to deny insurance claims include:
- Biased Claim Investigations: NY Life may conduct claim investigations with a bias that leans toward denying benefits. This bias can manifest in selectively gathering evidence that supports denial while overlooking information that supports your claim.
- Selective Interpretation of Policy Provisions: Insurance policies often contain complex language, and NY Life may selectively interpret policy provisions to justify the denial of your claim.
- Improper Reliance on In-House Medical Consultants: Insurers frequently employ in-house medical consultants to review disability claims. However, these consultants may have an inherent bias toward denying claims to minimize the financial impact on the insurance company.
- Delaying Claim Processing: NY Life may intentionally delay processing your LTD claim, causing financial strain and frustration. Delays can be a tactic to pressure claimants into accepting a lower settlement or abandoning their claims altogether.
- Inadequate Communication and Disclosure: Insurance companies must communicate openly and transparently with policyholders. NY Life may fail to explain claim denials clearly or intentionally withhold crucial information.
- Misrepresentation of Claimant’s Activities: NY Life may surveil claimants or monitor their social media activity in an attempt to discredit their disability claims. Innocuous activities captured through surveillance footage or social media posts may be misrepresented to suggest that the claimant is not as disabled as they claim to be.
- Failure to Consider Relevant Medical Evidence: Insurance companies may ignore or downplay critical medical evidence supporting your claim. Our attorneys work diligently to compile a comprehensive medical history record, ensuring that all relevant evidence is presented to strengthen your case.
What Can I Do If I Receive a NY Life LTD Denial?
You can challenge the denial and pursue the benefits you are rightfully entitled to. Here are steps you can take if you receive a NY Life LTD denial:
1. Review the Denial Letter
Carefully review the denial letter provided by NY Life. Understanding the reasons for the denial is crucial in formulating an effective strategy for appeal. Pay close attention to any specific provisions cited in the denial and note any discrepancies or inaccuracies.
2. Gather Evidence
Collect all relevant medical records, treatment notes, and documentation supporting your disability claim. This includes reports from treating physicians, diagnostic tests, and any correspondence with NY Life regarding your claim. Thorough documentation is essential in building a strong case for appeal.
3. Get to Grips With Your Policy
Familiarize yourself with the terms and provisions of your LTD insurance policy issued by NY Life. Understanding your coverage, including the definition of disability, waiting periods, and any exclusions, can help you effectively challenge the denial based on the terms of the policy.
4. File an Appeal
Most insurance policies, including those issued by NY Life, provide for an appeals process in the event of a claim denial. Follow the instructions outlined in the denial letter to initiate the appeals process promptly. Be sure to provide all necessary documentation and additional evidence supporting your claim.
5. Engage in Negotiations
Your attorney may negotiate with NY Life on your behalf. This process could involve presenting additional evidence, discussing with claims representatives, or participating in mediation. Negotiating a fair resolution is often key to securing the benefits you deserve.
6. Seek Legal Representation
Consider enlisting the assistance of an experienced NY Life LYD insurance denial attorney to guide you through the appeals process. Our lawyers for NY Life LTD insurance claim denials can help you navigate the complexities of insurance law, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the appeals process.
For more information about your legal options and to determine if we can assist with your case, contact our NY Life LTD Insurance claim denials attorneys at 818-886-2525.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor to Represent You?
When challenging a denial of your LTD insurance claim, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Kantor & Kantor stands out as a premier law firm dedicated to advocating for individuals facing insurance challenges, and here is why you should choose us:
- We Focus on Insurance Claim Denials: Our law firm handles insurance claim denials, including those involving LTD benefits. With years of experience in this specific area of law, our attorneys possess the depth of knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of insurance policies and effectively advocate for our clients.
- We Have Extensive Experience in Dealing with NY Life: Our legal team has extensive experience dealing with NY Life Insurance Company. We understand the company’s practices, policies, and potential pitfalls in its claim evaluation process. This knowledge allows us to anticipate and effectively counter the strategies employed by NY Life, increasing the likelihood of a successful appeal and a favorable resolution for our clients.
- Our Proven Track Record of Success: Our track record speaks for itself. Over the years, we have successfully represented countless individuals in their disputes with insurance companies, including NY Life. Our commitment to achieving positive outcomes for our clients has earned us a reputation as a trusted and reliable legal partner in the fight for justice.
- We Use a Personalized Approach: We understand that every case is unique and tailor our approach to meet each client’s specific needs and circumstances. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our NY Life LTD insurance claim denial attorneys provide personalized attention and guidance at every step, ensuring that you feel supported and informed throughout the process.
- We Practice Compassionate Advocacy: Dealing with a denial of your LTD insurance claim can be emotionally and financially draining. We approach each case with compassion and empathy, recognizing the impact such denials can have on our clients’ lives. We are committed to easing the burden on you and your loved ones by fighting tirelessly on your behalf.
How Our NY Life LTD Insurance Claim Denial Attorneys Can Help With Your Case
Our lawyers for NY Life LTD insurance claim denials are committed to providing comprehensive assistance while challenging your NY Life LTD insurance claim denial. Here is how we can help:
- Thorough Case Evaluation: Our first step is to conduct a review of your case, examining the denial letter, policy terms, and any relevant documentation. This careful analysis allows us to understand the specific reasons for the denial and identify areas that require attention during the appeals process.
- Strategic Advocacy: Crafting a successful appeal requires more than just presenting evidence—it requires strategic advocacy to persuade decision-makers to reconsider their initial denial. Our legal team employs a multi-faceted approach, combining legal expertise with persuasive arguments to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
- Customized Legal Strategy: Each case is unique, and we recognize that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when challenging insurance claim denials. Our legal team crafts a customized strategy tailored to the specific details of your case, addressing the challenges presented and maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome.
- Gathering Comprehensive Evidence: Building a strong case requires a comprehensive collection of supporting evidence. We work closely with you to gather medical records, witness statements, expert opinions, and other relevant documentation that strengthens your appeal. This thorough approach ensures that your case is presented with compelling evidence supporting your claim.
- Negotiation and Settlement Advocacy: While our primary goal is to secure your long-term disability benefits through the appeals process, we are also adept negotiators. If an opportunity for settlement arises during the appeals process, we work diligently to negotiate terms that are fair and in your best interest. Our focus remains on achieving the most favorable resolution for you.
- Litigation, if Necessary: In some cases, litigation becomes necessary to protect your rights. If negotiations and the appeals process do not yield a satisfactory outcome, our experienced litigators are prepared to take your case to court. We are dedicated to pursuing your interests aggressively and effectively in the courtroom.
ERISA Governs Most New York Life Group Disability Claims
New York Life LTD plans fall under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). This federal law sets forth minimum standards for retirement and health plans voluntarily established in private industry. If your New York Life claim has been rejected, initiating a mandatory internal appeal is essential before considering litigation against the company.
Navigating ERISA appeals can prove exceptionally daunting. The federal ERISA law significantly favors insurance companies, resulting in numerous myths, pitfalls, and tactics associated with these appeals. That is why we strongly encourage you to contact our ERISA disability lawyers. Expert guidance is crucial with so much on the line and ample potential for error in a single appeal.
Familiarizing yourself with the laws and guidelines governing ERISA appeals is also wise. For example, ERISA stipulates that all supporting documentation and legal arguments for reversing the denial must be provided as part of your appeal. There is no opportunity to add more information later, even if a lawsuit is filed.
In ERISA lawsuits, you are confined to the evidence already submitted. There are no “discoveries” or juries and no witness testimonies. The judge solely reviews the paperwork in your claim and appeal file. Having our seasoned ERISA attorney advocating for you can significantly enhance your chances of success.
When preparing your New York Life LTD appeal, be sure to include:
- All pertinent medical records detailing relevant work restrictions and limitations
- Letters from treating doctors outlining precise restrictions
- Reports from medical and vocational experts
- Personal accounts from yourself and witnesses to your disability.
Since there is a strict 180-day window to file an appeal, gathering these items quickly is crucial. Remember, no additional documentation can be added once the claim is submitted. Federal judges also recognize that claimants who have ERISA lawyers representing them have a greater chance of benefit reinstatement.
Contact a NY Life LTD Insurance Denial Attorney Today
Do not face the challenges of an insurance claim denial alone. Contact Kantor & Kantor today to schedule a consultation with our experienced NY Life LTD insurance denial attorneys. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of the appeals process and securing the benefits you are entitled to. Let us be your advocates in the pursuit of justice and financial stability. 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]