What Are Your Rights When Disability Benefits Are Denied?

When you’ve spent years working hard, paying for your long-term disability insurance, and suddenly find yourself unable to work due to a disability, having your benefits denied can feel like a significant setback. It’s frustrating, exhausting, and deeply unsettling to have an insurance company dismiss your claim when you’re already dealing with so much. If this has happened to you, you’re not alone, and most importantly—you have rights. At Monahan Tucker Law, we’re here to make sure you know them and use them to your advantage.

The Right to Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied

Under the law, insurance companies are required to provide a specific reason for denying your disability claim. This explanation must include the parts of your policy that they believe justify their decision. If they haven’t been clear—or if their reasoning is vague or unfair—you can and should demand more details. This is a critical first step because understanding their rationale allows you to challenge it effectively.

The Right to Appeal

Here’s the good news: an initial denial is not the end. You have the legal right to appeal the decision, often through the insurance company’s internal appeal process. This is your opportunity to present new evidence, correct errors, and strengthen your case. Many legitimate claims are denied the first time around, but a thorough appeal often changes that outcome. At Monahan Tucker Law, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared appeal can turn things around. The key is knowing what evidence to submit and how to frame your argument. That’s where we can help.

The Right to Legal Representation

You don’t have to fight this battle on your own. Having an experienced disability attorney by your side is within your rights—and it can make all the difference. Insurance companies tend to take claimants more seriously when they see legal professionals involved. Your lawyer can help you gather necessary documentation, negotiate with the insurer, and, if need be, prepare your case for court. 

The Right to Sue if Necessary

If your administrative appeal doesn’t succeed, you have the right to take your insurance company to court. Under federal law, such as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), the courts can review the insurer’s decision and even overturn it if they find it unjustified. If your policy isn’t governed by ERISA, state laws will apply, opening up additional legal pathways. A lawsuit can seem daunting, but remember—you’re not just fighting for yourself but for the financial security of your family and future.

The Right to Be Treated Fairly

Above all, you have the right to fair treatment. Insurance companies are legally bound by their contract with you. If they’ve acted in bad faith—such as by unfairly delaying your claim, ignoring crucial evidence, or misrepresenting your rights—you can hold them accountable. Bad faith insurance practices are taken seriously by the courts, and you may even be entitled to additional compensation if the insurer has crossed this line.

Moving Forward With Confidence

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your benefits are denied, but the most important thing to remember is that this is not the end of the road. You have rights, and there are clear, structured steps to take. At Monahan Tucker Law, we’ve worked with countless clients in similar situations, helping them regain both their benefits and their peace of mind. Every case is unique, but the goal is always the same—to get you the financial support you deserve. If you’re struggling with a denial, reach out to us.