In a previous post, I explained how MetLife had stopped selling its long-term disability insurance products. I warned insureds to expect MetLife to deny and terminate their long-term disability benefits claims.
As predicted, MetLife denials and terminations are on the rise. Our office has experienced a significant increase in claims denial and termination activity for MetLife insureds.
For Metlife group policy insureds, claim shutdowns ordinarily occur after an internal medical review, external medical review, insurer medical exam, or vocational evaluation. These claims are usually governed by ERISA, requiring the disabled individual to file an administrative appeal in the hopes that MetLife changes its mind. However, given that the company is looking to shut down expensive claims, it is important to acknowledge that even a strong appeal is likely to be rejected by MetLife, necessitating the filing of a lawsuit.
If you own a MetLife individual disability income insurance policy, the company will use similar tactics, but will also uses field interviews, surveillance, and other means aimed at derailing your claim.
If you own a policy or are insured for long-term disability benefits by MetLife, and think you may have a claim or are experiencing difficulties concerning your existing claim, do not hesitate to give us a call.
Evan S. Schwartz
Founder of Schwartz, Conroy & Hack
800-745-1755
ESS@schlawpc.com