Long Term Disability Lawyer for MetLife

Unfortunately, it is common practice for insurers like MetLife to deny valid claims as a way to increase their profits. A MetLife Long Term Disability lawyer will help you stand up for your rights. Make sure you get the full benefit that you rightly deserve. At Marc Whitehead & Associates, we have been protecting our clients’ rights since 1992. Our insurance company disability lawyers know how to make your voice heard before insurance companies. Call today to schedule a free case evaluation.

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Why Choose Our MetLife Long Term Disability Claim Lawyers?

We have spent more than three decades dedicated solely to disability law. Our focus on this area has earned us nationwide recognition as trusted disability denial lawyers for guiding clients through even the most challenging claims and appeals. With over 1,500 five-star client reviews, our track record shows the care and commitment we bring to every case. When you work with our ERISA claim lawyers, you can be confident that your needs and rights come first. Getting the right legal help is crucial when you are dealing with a denied or delayed MetLife Long Term Disability claim.

For a free legal consultationwith a metlife long term disability lawyer serving Nationwide, call (800) 562-9830

What Is MetLife?

Founded in 1863, Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife) is one of the largest life insurers in the US. You may have a group long term disability plan through your employer, or you may have had the foresight to buy a Long Term Disability (LTD) insurance policy to replace your wages if you ever became disabled due to illness or injury.

Nationwide MetLife Long Term Disability Lawyer Near Me (800) 562-9830

How Does the MetLife Long Term Care Claims Process Work?

Unfortunately, simply having a policy is not enough. You will need to file an application for benefits, and MetLife will have to decide whether you qualify. You must provide all necessary documentation and comply with the terms of the policy for a valid claim. Even though you or your employer have been paying premiums, every long term disability payout represents a potential “business loss” for the insurance company, so they try to maximize money flowing in by raising premiums and minimize money flowing out by denying claims.

Why Are MetLife Disability Claims Denied?

MetLife may offer several reasons for denying a claim, and many of them will not be justified. Reasons they may give you for long term disability claim denials include:

You do not meet “the definition of disability” under the terms of the policy.
An excluded pre-existing condition caused your disability.
The insurer did not receive all the required medical records.
There is “insufficient evidence” of disability.
You self-reported symptoms rather than seeking “appropriate care.”
The insurance company’s doctors disagree with your physician.
You were caught performing physical activities that a disability should have prevented you from doing.

While these can be legitimate reasons for refusing to pay a claim, a denial letter isn’t the last word. You still have options for dispute and resolution, which may result in a reversal with full benefits and back pay. Our Long Term Disability Lawyers will explain your options based on the unique details of your case.

How to File a MetLife Disability Appeal

When appealing a denial, it helps to have our experienced disability lawyers review your policy to determine whether you’ve met all criteria to satisfy the terms and conditions. A MetLife Long Term Disability attorney can also see that the denial letter provides an appropriate explanation, including:

The main reasons your claim was denied
A summary of the evidence used to deny your claim
The name and title of the person reviewing the claim
An explanation of what medical evidence is necessary to approve the claim
Information about your right to appeal the decision, along with a deadline

MetLife disability insurance claims may require:

Collection of updated medical records
Procurement of new opinion letters from your treating physicians
Your declaration that you have submitted truthful and accurate information
Supporting declarations from friends, family, and coworkers
An independent medical evaluation and functional capacity testing

If your appeal is denied, you may then have the option to file a secondary appeal or file a lawsuit. If you obtain insurance through your employer, you may file a lawsuit under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), which a federal judge will determine.

MetLife Long Term Disability Denial FAQs

Our MetLife Long Term Disability lawyers provide clear answers to the questions we hear most often from clients. If you want more in-depth guidance or have concerns about your own situation, reach out to us today and speak directly with our legal team.

What if My MetLife Disability Claim Is Denied?

If MetLife denies your disability claim, you still have options. Under ERISA, you have the right to file an appeal, but strict deadlines apply, so you must act quickly. The appeal process gives you the chance to provide additional medical records, expert opinions, and other evidence that supports your disability. Because MetLife often relies on in-house doctors who never examine you, gathering strong outside medical documentation is critical. If your appeal is also denied, a MetLife disability attorney may take your case to federal court.

Why Would MetLife Deny My Long Term Disability?

MetLife may deny long term disability claims for many reasons, some procedural and others based on how they interpret your medical condition. Common reasons include missing paperwork, incomplete medical records, or claims that your condition does not meet the policy’s definition of disability. The company may argue that you can still perform some type of work, even if you cannot return to your previous job. In many cases, MetLife relies on its own doctors who review files but never examine you in person, leading to denials that overlook the impact of your condition. They may also use incorrect job descriptions or misapply vocational standards when evaluating your claim.

What Are Three Situations That Would Be Considered Valid for Long Term Disability?

Long term disability benefits are designed to provide income when a serious health condition prevents you from working for an extended period of time. Here are three common situations that may qualify as valid claims:

Severe physical illness or injury: Conditions such as cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, or a major injury that limits your ability to work can qualify. These conditions often require ongoing treatment and make it impossible to perform your job duties.
Chronic pain or musculoskeletal disorders: Back injuries, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and similar conditions may prevent you from sitting, standing, or lifting for long periods, which can rule out many types of work.
Serious mental health disorders: Conditions like major depression, bipolar disorder, or severe anxiety can also be considered valid if they significantly interfere with your ability to concentrate, manage stress, or function reliably in a work setting.

Each case is unique, and insurance companies often demand strong medical documentation. Work closely with your doctors and a MetLife disability insurance lawyer to support your claim.

MetLife’s History of Insurance Claim Denial

MetLife is no stranger to litigation involving claimants suing over wrongful denials. Before it gets to that point, having an experienced MetLife Long Term Disability lawyer represent you can make all the difference in the appeals process. There are times when MetLife will not grant benefits despite solid evidence that the claim is valid. That is typical of many large insurance companies. The insurer saves money while a disabled person suffers the consequences. Under these circumstances, litigation is the only way for a claimant to receive justice. Under the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), employees can file an appeal with their insurer if they are denied disability benefits. If the appeal is denied, a disability attorney can file a federal lawsuit against the insurance plan provider.

Metropolitan Life Insurance Company vs. Glenn

One of the most notable cases against MetLife is Metropolitan Life Insurance Company vs. Glenn. Sears employee Wanda Glenn, who had a severe heart condition, was initially approved for disability benefits but later had them terminated by MetLife, even after the Social Security Administration found her disabled. The U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in Glenn’s favor, finding a conflict of interest because MetLife both decided eligibility and paid benefits. The case highlights common issues with MetLife, such as relying on in-house file reviews instead of medical exams, applying incorrect job criteria, and failing to inform claimants about appeal rights. These practices reflect why many policyholders turn to firms like Marc Whitehead & Associates. We are prepared to challenge MetLife denials through appeals or litigation.

Get Help From a MetLife Long Term Disability Lawyer Nationwide

A MetLife Long Term Disability claim can be stressful as you wonder how to support your family well into the future without regular wages. Our MetLife Long Term Disability attorneys will guide you through the claim and appeal process. The sooner you call our LTD lawyers, the better, as there are strict time limits for pursuing a claim. In most cases, you will only have a few months from the day you receive a claim denial letter to file a notice of appeal. Call Marc Whitehead & Associates today to get help with securing the benefits you deserve.