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Understanding Why MetLife Denies Long-Term Disability Claims+−
- Failure to Meet the Definition of Disability
- How Disability Is Defined: “Own Occupation” vs. “Any Occupation”
- Pre-Existing Condition Exclusions
- Insufficient Medical Evidence
- MetLife’s Medical Consultant Says You Are Not Disabled
- Discrepancies in Your Vocational Evaluation
- Video and Social Media Surveillance
- You Have Received the Maximum Benefits for Your Condition
- Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Disability Insurance Claim
- ERISA Litigation vs. Insurance Bad Faith Claims
- Schedule a Free Case Review
- Client Experiences: What People Say About Working With Ortiz Law Firm
- Frequently Asked Questions
Receiving a disability denial from MetLife can leave individuals feeling lost and unsure of their next steps. If you’ve received a denial letter, it’s crucial to appeal the decision quickly and strategically. Knowing your rights and why your claim was denied can help you create a strong appeal.
Remember, you’re not alone in this difficult situation. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and resources to navigate the appeals process with confidence.
Join us as we look at MetLife disability denials. We will explain the appeals process. We will also give you the tools to make a strong and convincing appeal. Your journey to overturning a denial and securing the benefits you rightfully deserve begins here.
About MetLife Disability Insurance
Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, also known as MetLife, provides both short-term and long-term disability insurance options to meet various needs.
- Short-Term Disability (STD) Insurance: This coverage is designed for temporary disabilities, typically offering benefits for a period ranging from a few months up to one year, depending on the specific terms of your policy. STD insurance can help replace a portion of your income while you recover from an illness or injury.
- Long-Term Disability (LTD) Insurance: For more serious conditions that prevent you from working for an extended period, LTD insurance steps in. After an initial waiting, or “elimination,” period, these policies may pay benefits for several years—sometimes up to normal retirement age—if you remain unable to fulfill your occupational duties.
By offering both types of coverage, MetLife aims to support policyholders through a wide range of disabling conditions, whether the expected recovery time is months or several years.
Unfortunately, having a MetLife disability insurance policy does not guarantee that your claim for disability benefits will be approved. Even if you can’t work due to a serious injury or illness, MetLife may still reject your disability claim.
Why Understanding Your Policy’s Language Matters
If you’re preparing to appeal a MetLife disability denial, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to fully understand the language and definitions within your policy. Insurance policies are packed with specific terms that might not always match your everyday interpretation.
For instance, MetLife—and many other insurers—draw clear distinctions between being “disabled” from your own occupation versus any occupation. These definitions directly impact your eligibility for benefits.
Your policy may outline varying standards depending on your situation and the timeframe involved. For example:
- Some plans define “disability” as being unable to perform your specific job due to illness or injury (often called “own occupation”).
- Others transition after a set time—say, 24 months—to a broader standard, where you must prove you cannot perform any occupation for which you’re reasonably qualified (“any occupation”).
Why does this matter? Because the documentation you need to provide—whether it’s medical records, statements from healthcare providers, or vocational assessments—should directly address the criteria your insurance policy uses. If you’re preparing to submit an appeal, matching your evidence to these specific requirements is crucial.
Failing to understand the nuances in your policy terms can lead to missed details, incorrect assumptions, or gaps in your appeal, giving the insurer grounds to uphold the denial.
By taking the time to carefully review and interpret your disability insurance policy, you put yourself in a stronger position to challenge a denial. If you run into confusing language or uncertain requirements, don’t hesitate to seek answers—whether by reaching out to qualified professionals or consulting with experienced advocates. Being proactive about understanding your policy is one of the most important steps in navigating the appeals process successfully.
That’s where we come in. Nick Ortiz is a national disability attorney with the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the MetLife long-term disability claim denial and appeals process. We’re here to fight back against the insurance company so you can focus on what’s important – your health. Call us at (888) 321-8131 to schedule your free case evaluation today.
What Sets Ortiz Law Firm Apart
Not all law firms take the same approach when it comes to standing up to large disability insurance companies like MetLife, Unum, Prudential, The Standard, and Cigna. At Ortiz Law Firm, our disability practice is built around deliberate, claimant-focused advocacy designed to give clients a real opportunity to recover the benefits they are owed.
Here’s what distinguishes our firm:
Free Case Evaluations: We offer complimentary consultations and case reviews so you can understand your legal options without added financial pressure. This allows us to assess your denial, explain next steps, and identify potential weaknesses before critical deadlines pass.
Compassionate, Client-Centered Advocacy: We understand that clients come to us during one of the most difficult periods of their lives—coping with serious medical conditions while facing financial uncertainty. Our approach combines genuine empathy with focused legal strategy, so clients feel supported while their claims are aggressively pursued.
A Proven Track Record: Nick Ortiz has helped disabled individuals nationwide recover long-term disability benefits after wrongful denials and terminations. Our firm has successfully handled claims governed by ERISA as well as individual disability policies, and we regularly challenge insurers that refuse to pay legitimate claims.
Deep Disability Insurance Experience: Disability insurance law is highly technical. Our practice is dedicated to reviewing policy language, identifying insurer tactics, and building strong administrative records. This experience allows us to anticipate arguments insurers will raise and address them head-on during the appeal process.
National Reach with Personalized Attention: Although we represent clients across the country, we never treat cases like numbers. Each claim receives individualized attention, tailored evidence development, and strategic planning based on the client’s medical condition, occupation, and policy terms.
Resources and Commitment to See Claims Through: Taking on large insurance companies requires persistence and preparation. We are willing to invest the time and resources necessary to pursue appeals and, when required, file lawsuits to protect our clients’ rights.
When you choose Ortiz Law Firm, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re partnering with a team that is committed to protecting your financial security and advocating for you at every stage of the disability claims process. This level of experience and dedication can make a meaningful difference when challenging some of the nation’s largest insurance companies.
Understanding Why MetLife Denies Long-Term Disability Claims
Like all insurance companies, MetLife seeks to turn a profit by carefully monitoring claims to reduce financial risk. When it comes to long-term disability claims, MetLife stands out because of how aggressively it reviews and scrutinizes of the medical evidence supporting each claim. Common reasons for claim denials include:
Failure to Meet the Definition of Disability
One of the primary reasons for a MetLife disability denial is failure to meet the insurer’s definition of disability. MetLife has specific criteria and guidelines for determining disability. If your medical condition does not meet their definition, your claim may be denied.
Below is a sample clause from a MetLife long-term disability policy:
“Disabled or Disability means that, due to Sickness or as a direct result of accidental injury:
You are receiving Appropriate Care and Treatment and complying with the requirements of such treatment; and
You are unable to earn:
- During the Elimination Period and the next 24 months of Sickness or accidental injury, more than 80% of Your Predisability Earnings at Your Own Occupation from any employer in Your Local Economy; and
- After such period, more than 80% of your Predisability Earnings from any employer in Your Local Economy at any gainful occupation for which You are reasonably qualified taking into account Your training, education, and experience.”
How Disability Is Defined: “Own Occupation” vs. “Any Occupation”
Not all disability insurance policies use the same yardstick when it comes to defining what it means to be “disabled.” The language in your policy dictates exactly what must be proven—and for how long—in order to receive benefits.
- Own Occupation Definition: Many policies state that you’re considered disabled if your illness or injury prevents you from doing the material duties of your specific job, often referred to as your “own occupation.” For example, if you’re a surgeon who develops a hand tremor, you may qualify for benefits under this standard, even if you could potentially do other work.
- Any Occupation Definition: Other policies are stricter, requiring proof that you cannot perform any job for which you’re reasonably suited based on your experience, education, or training. Under this standard, benefits are harder to qualify for, since the insurer may argue you can do different, perhaps less demanding work—even if you can’t do your original job.
- Transition Periods: It’s also common for policies to blend the two. Often, there’s an initial period (typically the first 24 months) where the “own occupation” standard applies, giving you some breathing room. After that, the policy may “switch” to the tougher “any occupation” standard, which can be a source of confusion and claim denials.
So, your eligibility will depend not only on your medical records but also on how your policy defines disability at each stage. Understanding these differences is crucial to preparing a successful claim for benefits.
Most MetLife policies change their definition of disability from “own occupation” to “any occupation” after a certain period of time, usually 24 months. These technical differences are confusing and insurance companies exploit this to confuse claimants. Disability benefits are often terminated when the definition changes.
Pre-Existing Condition Exclusions
If MetLife considered your disability to be the result of a pre-existing condition, they may deny your claim. It’s important to provide clear documentation and evidence showing that your current disability is not a direct result of a pre-existing condition.
Insufficient Medical Evidence
Insurance companies like MetLife often deny claims due to insufficient evidence. It’s important to provide comprehensive medical records, test results, and statements from healthcare providers to support your claim. A letter from your doctor simply stating that you are unable to work is insufficient. You need medical evidence to demonstrate the severity of your condition.
For example, in a case involving back pain, an X-Ray, MRI, or CT scan would provide better evidence. For a mental illness claim, you may need a neuropsychological evaluation to demonstrate cognitive deficits or difficulty thinking and processing information. This is the type of evidence that insurance companies looks for when evaluating LTD claims.
MetLife’s Medical Consultant Says You Are Not Disabled
MetLife often consults with medical professionals to evaluate disability claims. If their medical consultant determines that you are not disabled based on their evaluation, your claim may be denied. It’s important to get a second opinion or provide additional evidence to support your case.
Our Results: LTD Claim for Doctor with Short-Term Memory Problem Approved
MetLife denied the claim based on reports from their in-house psychologist and an independent medical examination. We worked with the claimant’s treating provider to dispute these reports, obtaining updated medical records to submit alongside a detailed appeal letter. Shortly after we submitted the appeal, MetLife reinstated the claim.
Discrepancies in Your Vocational Evaluation
Discrepancies in the definition of your occupation during a vocational evaluation can result in MetLife denying your disability claim. Make sure your job duties and restrictions are accurately represented during the evaluation process to avoid misunderstandings that could lead to a denial.
Video and Social Media Surveillance
MetLife may use surveillance tactics, such as monitoring your social media activity or conducting in-person surveillance, to evaluate the validity of your disability claim. Be careful about what you share online, and to be transparent about your limitations to avoid potential denials based on surveillance findings.
You Have Received the Maximum Benefits for Your Condition
Most policies limit the duration of benefits for claimants with a mental or nervous disorder. Once a claimant has exhausted their “lifetime maximum” of benefits for such a condition, benefits are terminated, unless the claimant can prove they have an additional disabling condition that is not subject to the policy limitation. However, it is not uncommon for insurers to ignore a claimant’s physical limitations and focus primarily on mental limitations in order to terminate claims based on the mental and nervous disorders.
Below is a sample clause from a recent MetLife policy:
“If You are Disabled due to one or more of the following medical conditions described below, We will limit Your Disability benefits to a lifetime maximum equal to the lesser of:
- 24 months for one period of Disability during Your lifetime for any one or more, or all of the above conditions; or
- the Maximum Benefit Period.
Subject to the Administration of Limited Disability Benefits for Disability Due to Mental and Nervous Disorders or Diseases as set forth below:
Your Disability benefits will be limited as stated above for:
- Disability due to alcohol, drug or substance abuse or addiction, We require You to participate in an alcohol, drug or substance addiction recovery program recommended by a Physician. We will end Disability benefit payments at the earliest of the period described above or the date You cease, refuse to participate, or complete such recovery program.
- Mental or Nervous Disorder or Disease that results from any cause, except for:
- Neurocognitive Disorders.”
Policy limitations may also apply to claims involving certain physical impairments. Insurers are increasingly limiting claims for long-term disability benefits for conditions that are considered neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, and soft tissue disorders.
How to Appeal a Long-Term Disability Denial
If MetLife has denied your claim for long-term disability benefits claim, first understand that the decision is not final. You have the right to appeal the denial, and the insurer must promptly conduct a full and fair review of your claim.
Claimants should take immediate action to appeal the decision. Let’s review the steps necessary to effectively appeal a MetLife disability denial.
First, Review the Denial Letter
When you receive a denial letter from MetLife, carefully review the document to determine why your claim was denied. The explanation may helpyou understand what evidence is needed to support your claim for long-term disability benefits.
If you’re unsure why your initial claim was denied, our experienced legal team can help you understand the reasoning behind it. We can also help you determine what medical records or other evidence may have been missing from your original claim.
Gathering Additional Medical Evidence
Filing an appeal with the insurance carrier is not something that should be taken lightly. Long-term disability attorneys don’t just send a short letter to insurance companies saying, “We‘re appealing”. We know that would be completely inadequate and would only result in MetLife upholding the decision to deny your claim. The administrative appeal process requires you to submit new evidence.
To strengthen your appeal, you should gather additional medical evidence to support your disability claim. This may include medical evidence from your treating physician, as well as statements from friends, family, and the claimant. Your appeal to MetLife may consist of some or all of the following:
- Updated medical records;
- Letters from medical experts supporting your claim;
- Your statement;
- Statements from friends, family, and coworkers;
- Results of a functional capacity evaluation; and
- Residual functional capacity forms.
Nick Ortiz, a long-term disability attorney, and his experienced legal team at the Ortiz Law Firm help clients with administrative appeals. They do this by gathering all the necessary documentation and preparing comprehensive appeal letters. This gives clients the best chance of successfully obtaining benefits from MetLife. If you have any questions or concerns during the appeal process, our experienced legal team is available to help.
If you are proceeding with the appeal process without an attorney, it is crucial that you understand the importance of submitting sufficient documentation to support your claim. We encourage you to review our free Disability Insurance Appeal Guide beforehand. The guide explains why a well-supported appeal is important and provides a step-by-step guide to the disability insurance appeal process, RFC forms, and appeal letter templates.
File Your Appeal on Time
Pay close attention to all instructions provided by MetLife regarding how to appeal the decision. MetLife has strict deadlines for submitting appeals following a denial. Meeting these deadlines is important to ensure that your appeal is considered; missing a deadline could result in your appeal being denied. Keep track of the timeline and submit your appeal before the due date.
Our Results: “Any Occupation” Claim Approved for Claimant with Chronic Pain
Our client had been receiving LTD benefits from MetLife for two years when the definition of disability changed from “own occupation” to “any occupation.” MetLife’s medical director determined that the claimant could perform other work, so the claim was terminated. We obtained additional evidence, appealed the decision, and the claim was reinstated.
Writing a Strong Appeal Letter
When preparing your appeal, write a compelling and persuasive appeal letter to MetLife. Clearly explain why you believe your disability claim is valid and address any reasons cited in the denial letter. Use clear and concise language to effectively communicate your points. Highlight key medical evidence and explain how it supports your claim.
Preparing for a Possible Lawsuit
If MetLife continues to avoid paying your claim and denies your appeal, you may have the option of filing a second appeal (if your policy allows it) or filing a lawsuit. A legal professional who specializes in disability claims can help you understand the next steps in filing a lawsuit against MetLife. Seek legal advice proactively to navigate the escalation of your case into a legal setting.
If your appeal is unsuccessful, be prepared to take further action by considering litigation. Depending on how you purchased your policy, you may have an ERISA claim. This means that a lawsuit would be filed under the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).
ERISA Claims
You likely have an ERISA claim if you received your policy as part of an employer-sponsored group benefits plan. ERISA governs many disability claims. In an ERISA disability denial case, a federal judge will review your claim, as well as all the evidence the company to decide whether to deny your claim. Then, the judge will determine whether MetLife’s decision to deny your claim for benefits was correct, according to the policy terms and the law. ERISA law can be very complicated and heavily favors the insurance company, which is why so many claimants choose to work with an ERISA attorney who specializes in long-term disability.
Notable Court Cases Offering Insight Into Disability Insurance Denials and ERISA
If you’re wondering how courts typically assess long-term disability insurance denials under ERISA, it’s helpful to look at a few key legal battles that have shaped the landscape for claimants.
One widely referenced case is Metropolitan Life Insurance Company v. Glenn. Here, the Supreme Court considered what happens when an insurance company is responsible for both deciding whether a claimant qualifies for benefits and for paying out those same benefits. This arrangement naturally raises concerns about conflicts of interest.
In Glenn’s situation, the Court held that such conflicts are indeed a factor judges should weigh when reviewing ERISA-based disability claim denials. While not the only consideration in these cases, a conflict of interest can meaningfully influence the outcome if it appears to have affected an insurer’s decision-making.
Cases like these underscore how the presence of dual roles can add layers of complexity to ERISA appeals, and why it’s so important to present a thorough claim file—especially when you suspect the insurer’s interests might have influenced their decision. For those facing a denied claim, reviewing how courts have assessed insurer conduct in similar situations can provide valuable guidance.
Understanding Conflicts of Interest in ERISA Disability Denials
When it comes to ERISA-governed disability insurance claims, courts carefully assess whether there is a conflict of interest—especially when the insurance company is both the one making decisions about eligibility and the one paying out benefits. The possibility for bias is real: if MetLife (or any similar insurer) stands to save money by denying claims, a judge will look more closely at their decision-making process.
Federal courts, including the Sixth Circuit, have held that any potential conflict must be considered when reviewing a denial. The key question is how much that conflict might have influenced the outcome. If evidence shows the insurer let its own financial interests weigh too heavily in denying a claim, the court may give less deference to the company’s decision and take a harder look at the facts.
This doesn’t mean every decision by an insurance company with a conflict is automatically suspect—but it does mean claimants have an opportunity to point out instances where the company may not have acted impartially. The presence and degree of conflict become crucial factors in a court’s analysis of whether your denial was justified under your policy and the law.
Non-ERISA Claims
If you did not purchase your disability insurance policy as part of an employer-sponsored benefits package, then you likely have a non-ERISA policy. Claimants with non-ERISA policies may file a lawsuit against their insurance providers for denying their long-term disability insurance claims. However, it will not be governed by federal ERISA law.
We understand that insurance companies sometimes act in bad faith, and we will fight to protect your rights as a policyholder.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for insurers like MetLife to engage in practices that unfairly disadvantage claimants. These tactics can include:
- Failing to clearly explain your appeal rights or next steps after a denial, leaving you in the dark about how to proceed.
- Denying or terminating benefits based on reviews from doctors who have never examined you, or who rely heavily on in-house medical opinions that may not be impartial.
- Misapplying vocational criteria to justify a denial, sometimes by overstating your ability to work or disregarding the actual demands of your occupation.
- Dismissing valid self-reported symptoms or discounting objective medical evidence that supports your disability.
- Using outdated or incorrect information about your job duties to argue that you’re not entitled to benefits.
If you’re facing issues like these, know that you’re not alone. Our team is here to help you challenge unfair denials and hold your insurer accountable. We have experience filing suits against MetLife and many other insurance companies. Contact us today to learn more about how a long-term disability attorney can help!
When to Seek Guidance from a Disability Insurance Attorney
You should consider reaching out to a disability insurance lawyer or ERISA attorney as soon as you notice potential red flags with your claim. Insurance companies like MetLife—and similar industry giants—frequently use tactics that can lead to unwarranted delays or sudden denials of benefits. If you receive confusing requests for additional documentation, experience repeated delays, or are asked to attend independent medical examinations you feel are unnecessary, these can be signs your claim may not be handled fairly.
Moreover, if your benefits are abruptly terminated, or if the insurer continually moves the goalposts regarding what evidence is required, it’s wise to seek experienced legal guidance. An attorney with expertise in ERISA claims and disability law can help you identify and respond to unfair practices, gather crucial medical evidence, and ensure that your rights are fully protected throughout the process.
Leveraging Past Legal Cases for Your Disability Appeal
When it comes to appealing or litigating a disability claim denial, prior legal cases can serve as crucial roadmaps for both claimants and their attorneys. The outcomes and findings in these cases shed light on what evidence and arguments tend to persuade insurers like MetLife or prove successful in court—giving you a tactical advantage as you chart your next steps.
Learning from Precedent
For example, appellate court decisions often emphasize the need for a coherent and well-supported medical record. In one notable case (Saffon v. Wells Fargo & Co. Long Term Disability Plan, 522 F.3d 863), the court made it clear that if an insurer initially recognized a claimant’s disability and then later terminates benefits, the insurer must present credible evidence of medical improvement—not just a generic assertion or reliance on surveillance footage. Courts look for objective changes in a claimant’s functional abilities and give weight to the opinions of treating physicians, especially when these are consistent over time.
Addressing Surveillance and Misconceptions
Claim denials sometimes rely on surveillance or reports suggesting that the individual can work. However, as seen in previous cases, these tactics can backfire if the surveillance is taken out of context or misrepresents the claimant’s actual abilities. For example, courts have been critical when insurers interpret occasional efforts (like an appearance at a family business) as evidence of employability, especially when medical evidence and affidavits from family members support ongoing disability.
Making Use of Supporting Evidence
Past legal battles also reveal the power of strong supporting evidence. Appeals that succeed typically present new or clarified medical documentation, detailed statements from treating providers, and corroborating affidavits from close contacts—all tailored to directly rebut the reasons for denial.
Why Precedent Matters
Understanding these legal precedents can:
- Reinforce the importance of comprehensive, up-to-date medical records in your appeal.
- Show that insurers must clearly justify changes in benefit status, especially after an initial approval.
- Illustrate the value of objective documentation and third-party statements in clarifying misunderstandings (such as supposed work activity).
- Guide you and your attorney in framing your arguments with citations to relevant court decisions, increasing your credibility.
Staying informed by what’s worked (and failed) in similar cases provides a solid foundation for building a persuasive appeal or, if necessary, preparing for litigation. This approach increases your chance of regaining—or retaining—your benefits and helps level the playing field against large insurers.
Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Disability Insurance Claim
If you are facing a denied or terminated disability insurance claim, choosing the right attorney can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. At Ortiz Law Firm, we focus specifically on long-term disability claims and appeals, including those involving major insurance companies such as MetLife, Cigna, Unum, and The Hartford.
When clients consider working with our firm, these are the qualities they consistently value:
Experience: Nick Ortiz has extensive experience handling long-term disability denials and appeals, including both ERISA-governed group policies and individual disability insurance claims. Our firm has successfully challenged wrongful denials and terminations nationwide.
Focused Practice: Disability insurance law is complex and unforgiving. Our practice is dedicated to disability claims, allowing us to stay deeply familiar with insurer tactics, policy language, and appeal requirements that often determine whether a claim succeeds or fails.
Proven Results: Clients are encouraged to review our case results and client testimonials to see how we have helped disabled individuals recover benefits after denials. Our work reflects a consistent commitment to building strong administrative records and pursuing litigation when necessary.
Clear Communication and Accessibility: We believe clients should understand what is happening with their claim at every stage. Our team prioritizes clear communication, timely updates, and practical guidance so clients know what to expect and how decisions may affect their case.
We offer free initial consultations and handle disability claims on a contingency fee basis—meaning there is no fee unless benefits are recovered. Because appeal deadlines are often short and strictly enforced, acting quickly is critical.
If your disability claim has been denied or terminated, speaking with an experienced long-term disability attorney as soon as possible can help protect your rights and position your claim for the strongest possible outcome.
ERISA Litigation vs. Insurance Bad Faith Claims
It’s important to understand the difference between ERISA litigation and insurance bad faith claims when contesting a long-term disability denial.
- ERISA Litigation: If your long-term disability policy was provided through an employer-sponsored group plan, your claim is likely governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). In these cases, any legal action typically takes place in federal court. The court will review the administrative record to determine whether the insurance company’s decision aligns with the plan’s terms and the law. There are strict procedural rules, and, unfortunately, ERISA law often limits damages to only unpaid benefits and sometimes attorney’s fees—no punitive damages.
- Insurance Bad Faith Claims: On the other hand, if you purchased an individual disability insurance policy (not through your employer), your dispute may fall under state insurance laws. If the insurer unreasonably delays, wrongfully denies your claim, or engages in deceptive practices (“bad faith”), you may be able to file a lawsuit for insurance bad faith. Unlike ERISA cases, these claims may allow for additional recovery, such as punitive damages, and cases are usually heard in state court. Some large insurers, like Unum and The Hartford, have been the subject of notable bad faith verdicts for unfair claims handling.
Understanding where your policy falls helps shape the legal strategy and the remedies available if your long-term disability benefits are denied.
Schedule a Free Case Review
Nick Ortiz is an experienced MetLife long-term disability attorney who has helped hundreds of claimants recover benefits from MetLife and other major disability insurance companies. He and the skilled legal team at the Ortiz Law Firm will guide you through the long-term disability appeal process. We work diligently to build up the medical evidence that supports your claim, which will improve your chances of winning.
We offer free case reviews to those who have been denied long-term disability benefits. During your free case evaluation, an attorney, Nick Ortiz, will review your MetLife denial letter, evaluate the policy terms and definitions used to deny your claim, and offer advice on how to proceed with your MetLife disability appeal.
There is absolutely no upfront cost. You only pay an attorney’s fee if we successfully recover your disability benefits. If your MetLife long-term disability claim has been wrongfully denied or terminated, call us at (888) 321-8131 or click the button below to schedule a free case review with a MetLife disability attorney today.
Client Experiences: What People Say About Working With Ortiz Law Firm
Hearing directly from individuals who have faced the stress and uncertainty of a disability insurance claim can provide invaluable perspective. Over the years, many clients have shared positive feedback about their experiences working with Ortiz Law Firm during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
Here’s what clients often say about working with our team:
- Support and Guidance: Clients frequently describe the relief they felt once they had an experienced disability attorney in their corner. Many note that our team took the time to explain their options, break down complex policy language, and guide them step-by-step through the claims and appeals process—especially when everything felt overwhelming.
- Attention to Detail: Clients often highlight how thoroughly their cases were handled. Testimonials regularly mention the care taken to review medical records, build strong evidence, and address every issue raised by the insurance company. Many describe feeling confident that nothing was overlooked.
- Clear and Consistent Communication: One of the most common themes in client feedback is communication. Clients appreciate prompt responses, clear explanations, and regular updates about what to expect next. Many note that they felt heard, respected, and informed throughout the process.
- Persistence When It Matters Most: Several clients share stories of Ortiz Law Firm continuing to fight for their benefits even after an initial denial or termination. They describe feeling supported during appeals and reassured knowing their case would not be abandoned simply because the insurer said “no.”
- Peace of Mind: Clients often mention the comfort that comes from working with a firm experienced in dealing with major disability insurance carriers like MetLife, The Hartford, Unum, Cigna, and others. Knowing their case was being handled by attorneys familiar with insurer tactics helped reduce stress during an already difficult time.
- Trust and Results: Many testimonials focus on successful outcomes—both financial and emotional. Clients speak about finally receiving the benefits they were entitled to and feeling validated after months or years of uncertainty. For some, the result was life-changing; for others, it restored a sense of dignity and security.
These experiences reflect our commitment to combining legal knowledge with genuine client advocacy. If you’re struggling with a disability insurance claim, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our firm is here to guide you through both the legal process and the personal challenges that come with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common reasons for MetLife disability denials?
Common reasons for MetLife disability denials include lack of sufficient medical evidence, failure to meet the policy’s definition of disability, failure to follow prescribed treatment, or failure to meet deadlines for submitting required documentation.
How do I appeal a MetLife disability denial?
To appeal a MetLife disability denial, you must gather any additional medical records or supporting documentation, follow the outlined appeal process, and submit your appeal within the specified timeframe. It is important to present a strong case with new evidence to support your claim.
Can I increase my chances of a successful appeal?
To increase your chances of a successful MetLife disability appeal, be sure to provide thorough and relevant medical evidence, meet all deadlines, and consider hiring a legal professional who specializes in disability claims.
How long does the MetLife disability appeal process take?
Generally, MetLife will give you 180 days to appeal a denial. However, the MetLife disability appeal review process can vary in length depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of additional information provided. It may take several months to receive a decision on your appeal.
Should I hire an attorney for my MetLife disability appeal?
While not required, hiring an attorney experienced in disability appeals can significantly increase your chances of a successful outcome. An attorney can help you navigate the complex appeals process, gather the necessary evidence, and present a compelling case on your behalf. And most attorneys only get paid if there is a recovery. At the Ortiz Law Firm, we never charge a fee unless your case results in compensation.
