Hartford Long-Term Disability Denial Lawyer

Last Updated: October 3, 2024 | Reviewed and Edited by: Ortiz Law Firm

The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., also known as The Hartford, is a renowned investment and insurance company founded in 1810. Hartford offers long-term disability (LTD) plans to provide financial coverage for individuals in times of disability, but navigating the disability claims process with Hartford can be challenging, and claimants often face wrongful denials or benefit terminations. However, you don’t have to face Hartford alone.

At the Ortiz Law Firm, we’ve handled hundreds of long-term disability claims involving Hartford, making us highly familiar with their approach to denying or delaying claims. Whether it’s challenging a denial, litigating a case in court, or negotiating a settlement, we know the common tactics they use to try to avoid paying benefits. Our extensive experience with Hartford gives us a unique ability to anticipate their moves and respond with the most effective strategies.

Nick Ortiz, our lead attorney, has also built strong connections with many of the defense attorneys that Hartford frequently relies on. Nick is in regular contact with these attorneys—often speaking to them multiple times per week—and has developed a rapport that allows for more efficient communication and case resolution. His direct access, including the ability to call them on their personal cell phones, often speeds up negotiations and provides a significant advantage for our clients.

With our deep knowledge of Hartford and their legal teams, Ortiz Law Firm is uniquely positioned to fight for your long-term disability benefits with skill, determination, and efficiency. Let us support you in preparing a comprehensive appeal and seeking the justice you need. The dedicated legal team at Ortiz Law Firm is committed to securing the benefits you deserve—call (888) 321-8131 for a free case review.

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Challenges in Filing a Disability Claim with The Hartford

ABC’s Good Morning America has aired news reports on Hartford’s treatment of disabled individuals. Chris Cuomo reports on how Hartford wrongfully terminated a disability claim by Jack “Rocky” Whitten based on surveillance video. The “GMA” story led to other mistreated disability policyholders contacting Good Morning America to share more abuse allegations and stories of having their disability benefits terminated.

Although the news stories above were several years ago, Hartford continues to deny legitimate long-term disability insurance claims. Claimants often face several obstacles when filing a disability claim with The Hartford. These issues can include:

1. A Lengthy and Complex Application Process: Hartford’s application process for disability claims can be long and require substantial paperwork. Claimants may find it overwhelming to gather and submit all the necessary documentation, leading to potential delays or incomplete applications.
2. Medical Evidence and Proof of Disability: Hartford requires comprehensive medical evidence to support a disability claim. Claimants must provide documented proof of their disability, including medical records, test results, and statements from healthcare providers. Insufficient or incomplete documentation can result in claim denials.
3. Subjectivity in Evaluating Disability: The interpretation of disability can be subjective. Hartford has specific criteria to assess the severity and impact of a claimant’s condition. This subjectivity can lead to differing opinions between claimants and the insurance company, making it challenging to obtain approval for disability benefits.

At Ortiz Law Firm, we helped a previous client with autoimmune and neurological disorders after Hartford terminated their claim, citing insufficient medical evidence to support the claim. We appealed the denial, the claim was reinstated, and our client received their rightful benefits!

Tactics Used by The Hartford to Deny Claims

Hartford may employ various tactics, such as home visits, surveillance, or social media investigations, to find any reason to deny your claim. Claimants should be aware of these strategies, which may include:

1. Surveillance and Private Investigation: Hartford is known to conduct surveillance on claimants, both online and in real life, to gather evidence they can use to dispute the validity of their claims. This surveillance can involve hiring private investigators to monitor claimants’ activities and assessing their daily routines for potential inconsistencies with reported limitations.
2. Selective Review of Medical Records: Hartford may selectively review medical records, focusing on specific details or omitting vital information that supports a claimant’s disability. Hartford uses this tactic to downplay the severity of the condition or disregard relevant medical evidence.
3. Claiming Lack of Objective Evidence: Hartford may deny claims by asserting a lack of objective evidence to support the disability. Even when claimants provide substantial medical documentation and expert opinions, the insurance company may argue that the evidence does not meet their criteria for objective proof of disability.

Examples of Wrongful Denials

Countless instances of Hartford wrongfully denying claims highlight the need for claimants to navigate the claims process diligently. Here are a few notable examples:

1. Denial Based on Surveillance Alone: Hartford denied a claim based solely on surveillance footage showing a claimant performing routine activities for a short duration. The denial failed to consider the claimant’s experience of heightened symptoms and limitations following such activities.
2. Disregarding Medical Opinions: In some cases, Hartford may ignore the opinions and recommendations of treating physicians who clearly state that the claimant’s condition prevents them from working. The insurance company may challenge the credibility or expertise of these healthcare providers.
3. Failure to Conduct Thorough Investigations: Hartford has been criticized for its inadequate investigation of disability claims. Insufficient reviews of medical records and failure to gather essential evidence supporting the claimant’s disability can lead to claim denials.

By being aware of these factors, claimants can gather strong evidence, seek legal counsel if necessary, and increase their chances of securing the disability benefits they deserve. Presenting comprehensive and compelling disability evidence is crucial to avoid potential issues.

Understanding Your Hartford Disability Denial

When dealing with a disability denial from Hartford, it is essential to understand the reasons behind it. This section will guide you through analyzing the denial letter and illuminate common reasons for claim denial. With a better understanding of the denial, you can take appropriate steps to appeal the decision and potentially secure the disability benefits you deserve.

Analyzing the Denial Letter

When Hartford denies your long-term disability claim or terminates your benefits, they will send you a letter outlining the reasons for their decision. It is essential to carefully review this letter to identify the weaknesses in your initial claim and strengthen your case during the appeal process.

This document provides valuable insight into why Hartford denied your claim. Pay close attention to the language used and the explanations given. By studying the denial letter diligently, you can better understand the issues you must address in your appeal.

Reasons for Claim Denial

Hartford disability denials can occur for various reasons. By understanding these common reasons for a Hartford disability denial, you can take the necessary steps to address them in your appeal. Here are some possible explanations for the denial:

1. Insufficient Medical Evidence: Hartford may require comprehensive medical documentation to support your disability claim. If the provided proof is deemed inadequate or fails to demonstrate the severity of your condition, Hartford may deny your claim. Ensuring your medical records are up-to-date and include all relevant information is crucial.
2. Inconsistent Information: Inconsistencies in the information provided on your claim forms, medical records, or during interviews can trigger a denial. Hartford expects accurate and consistent information throughout the application process. Ensure that all details are correct and align with the medical evidence to avoid potential denials.
3. Failure to Meet the Definition of Disability: Hartford has specific criteria to determine whether an individual qualifies as disabled. Hartford may deny your claim if your condition does not meet their definition of disability. Review the definition of disability in your policy and ensure your condition and the evidence supporting your claim meets these requirements.
4. Missing Deadlines: Failure to meet deadlines set by Hartford, such as filing your claim within the specified time frame, providing requested documentation promptly, or appealing a denial within the given window, can result in claim denial. Timeliness is crucial throughout the disability claims process.
5. Pre-existing Condition Exclusions: Hartford may deny your claim if your disability is related to a pre-existing condition. Many policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions. Review your policy to determine any limitations or exclusions that may apply to your situation.

Remember, the appeals process can be complex, and seeking professional assistance from an experienced attorney or disability advocate can significantly enhance your chances of success. Ensure you are well-informed and well-prepared as you proceed with your appeal.

What to Do After a Denial: Preparing for Your Appeal

When facing a disability denial from Hartford, being well-prepared for the appeal process is crucial. Understanding the key aspects that will strengthen your appeal, collecting and presenting evidence effectively, and recognizing the importance of legal assistance can increase your chances of a successful outcome. In this section, we will explore these three critical factors in detail.

How to Strengthen Your Appeal Against the Hartford

1. Gather Additional Evidence: Collect any new medical records, test results, or supporting documentation that can help strengthen your case. Ensure that your evidence directly relates to your disability and its impact on your ability to work.
2. Document your Limitations: Clearly outline the limitations and restrictions caused by your disability. Limits and restrictions can include physical, cognitive, or emotional impairments that prevent you from performing your job duties.
3. Obtain Professional Opinions: Seek opinions from medical professionals specializing in your disability. Their expert input can carry significant weight in supporting your appeal.
4. Keep a Journal: Maintaining a detailed journal can help demonstrate the day-to-day challenges you face due to your disability. Record how your symptoms impact your ability to work, carry out daily activities, and interact socially.

“Ortiz Law Firm has done an amazing job keeping me updated on every step of the process, which helped relieve some of my stress. It was also tremendously helpful to no longer have to personally deal with the anxiety created by the constant bombardment of arguments and requests from the insurance company.”
– Analytics Consultant in Iowa with a Denied Disability Claim

Collecting and Presenting Disability Evidence

When preparing your appeal, the collection and presentation of disability evidence play a crucial role:

1. Organize your Documentation: Gather all relevant medical records, test results, and other supporting documents in a well-organized manner. Staying organized while you gather evidence to back your claim will make presenting your case more manageable, and ensure you remember to include all the information in your final submission.
2. Highlight Important Information: Identify and underline critical information in your medical records directly supporting your disability claim. Essential information can include diagnosis details, treatment plans, and professional opinions.
3. Include Detailed Statements: Providing statements from physicians, therapists, and other healthcare providers can strengthen your appeal. These statements should focus on how your disability limits your functional abilities and affects your work.
4. Use Visuals: If applicable, include visual evidence such as X-rays, MRIs, or photographs that depict the physical or visible effects of your disability. Visual evidence can be highly impactful in reinforcing your claim.
5. Provide a Clear Timeline: Present a chronological timeline of events, including medical visits, treatments, and any changes in your condition. This timeline can help establish the progression and impact of your disability over time.

Please note that the information provided is general and not legal advice. Consulting with a qualified attorney is recommended for personalized guidance regarding your situation.

The Importance of Legal Assistance in the Appeal Process

Navigating the appeal process against The Hartford can be complex, which is why seeking legal assistance is highly recommended:

1. Experience with the System: Disability attorneys or advocates have extensive knowledge and experience handling disability claims and appeals. They know the ins and outs of the process, which can significantly improve your chances of success.
2. Expertise in Disability Law: Legal professionals specializing in disability law understand the nuances and requirements of the law. They can interpret complex legal jargon, file all necessary paperwork correctly, and effectively argue your case.
3. Increased Credibility: Legal representation can enhance credibility during the appeal process. Hartford will likely take your appeal seriously when they see you have professional legal support.
4. Maximize your Chances: Disability attorneys know how to strategize and document your claim to maximize your chances of winning the appeal. They can guide you through the entire process, from gathering evidence to presenting your case convincingly.

Lawsuits Against the Hartford

Although we were not involved in any of the claims listed below, we have summarized them to help claimants better understand how disability law is interpreted and how the Court decides such claims.

• Archer v. Hartford – Court Upholds Long-Term Disability Claim Denial
• Benson v. Hartford – Court Affirms Hartford’s Decision to Deny LTD Benefits
• Nagy v. Hartford – Court Holds That Hartford Was Proper in Denying Benefits
• Miller v. Hartford – Court Upholds Denial of Claim for Fibromyalgia & Depression
• Mawa v. Hartford – Disability Claim For Peripartum Cardiomyopathy Denied
• Ingravallo v. Hartford – Second Circuit Overturns Claimant-Friendly Decision
• Campbell v. Hartford – Denial Supported by Surveillance and Treating Physician
• Griffin v. Hartford – Plaintiff Failed to Furnish Proof of Loss

Get Help from a Hartford Long-Term Disability Denial Lawyer

Filing a disability claim with Hartford is not always a smooth process, and it is not uncommon for Hartford to wrongfully deny benefits. However, if you find yourself in this situation, you do not have to face it alone. Remember, you have the right to fight for your long-term disability benefits, and an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the appeals process.

Long-term disability attorney Nick Ortiz and the legal team at the Ortiz Law Firm have extensive experience handling claims with The Hartford. By thoroughly understanding the reasons for your denial and addressing the areas of weakness in your initial claim, we can improve your chances of a successful appeal.

Don’t hesitate to contact us online or at (888) 321-8131 for a free case review. Our team is ready to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging process.

Our Case Results

Many of the Hartford claims we handle are approved on appeal. The following are just a sample of some of the claims we have brought to a favorable resolution.

• Mental Health Claim Approved on Appeal: Hartford initially denied this claim due to missing information. We were retained just a few days before the appeal deadline, so we submitted an abbreviated appeal and asked the insurance company to hold the claim. After obtaining and submitting all the necessary information, we notified Hartford that the appeal was ready for review. Ultimately, the claimant received the short- and long-term disability benefits they deserved.
• Hartford Reinstates “Any Occupation” Claim: A claimant with complex regional pain syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia had been receiving benefits for two years when the definition of disability changed from “own occupation” to “any occupation,” and benefits were terminated. Hartford identified sedentary occupations the claimant could potentially perform and obtained damaging surveillance video evidence showing the claimant performing community service. We argued that the claimant’s participation in a community service program did not mean she could work a full-time, sedentary position. Hartford overturned its previous decision to terminate benefits.
• Denial Overturned for Truck Driver with Cardiac Conditions: Hartford terminated this claim because the claimant supposedly didn’t fully participate in rehab, but that wasn’t true. The claimant’s doctor hadn’t allowed it. We appealed, and after reviewing the additional evidence that we supplied, Hartford agreed the claimant couldn’t do their medium-duty job and reinstated the claim.

Hartford Disability Denial FAQs