What Evidence Can Help Overturn a Denied Unum Disability Claim?
Unum is a major provider of short- and long-term disability insurance in the United States. However, the company is also well-known for aggressively denying claims—sometimes even when the evidence of disability is strong. If you’ve received a denial letter from Unum, you may feel frustrated and unsure of what to do next. The good news is that many denials can be overturned with the right documentation and strategic approach.
In this post, we’ll break down the types of evidence that can strengthen your appeal, reinforce your credibility, and help you recover the benefits you deserve.
Why Unum Denies Claims
Unum often cites a lack of “objective medical evidence,” inconsistent documentation, or vague policy definitions as the reason for denial. The appeals process gives you the chance to directly respond to these points. However, you’ll need to submit clear, thorough, and compelling evidence—because once your appeal is denied, the record is usually closed, especially for policies governed by ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act).
1. Detailed Medical Records
Medical documentation is the backbone of any disability claim. Your records should clearly outline:
- Your diagnosis and treatment history
- Symptoms and how they impact your daily activities
- Test results (MRIs, blood work, X-rays, etc.)
- Referrals to specialists
- Medication history and side effects
Make sure all treating physicians are accurately documenting your functional limitations, not just your symptoms. Medical records should connect your condition to your inability to work in clear, specific terms.
2. Treating Physician’s Statement
Unum may rely on in-house or third-party consultants who never examined you. That’s why a strong statement from your treating physician is vital. Ask your doctor to write a narrative report explaining:
- Your diagnosis and prognosis
- The limitations caused by your condition
- Why you are unable to work in your own or any occupation
The more detailed and specific the letter, the more persuasive it will be—especially when it directly refutes the opinions of Unum’s reviewing physicians.
3. Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE)
An FCE is a physical exam conducted by a licensed professional to objectively assess your ability to perform work-related tasks. These evaluations test strength, mobility, stamina, and physical tolerance over time. An FCE can provide solid, third-party evidence that supports your inability to meet the demands of your job—or any job within your training and experience.
4. Vocational Expert Reports
A vocational expert can assess how your limitations affect your ability to work, especially if your policy includes an “any occupation” clause. These professionals review your job history, skill set, education, and medical restrictions to determine whether you’re realistically employable. A well-written vocational report can dismantle Unum’s claim that you can perform sedentary or alternate work.
5. Personal Statements
Your own testimony can be a powerful tool. In a written statement, explain in your own words how your condition affects your daily life, including:
- How you feel on an average day
- Tasks you can no longer do
- Activities that trigger pain, fatigue, or other symptoms
- How your condition has affected your mental health or relationships
Keep your tone honest and clear. Avoid exaggeration, but don’t downplay your struggles either. Real-world examples help paint a fuller picture for those reviewing your claim.
6. Statements from Family, Friends, or Colleagues
Letters from people who see you regularly can offer additional insight into your condition. These statements can validate your symptoms and provide evidence of how your condition affects your daily functioning. Look for people who can speak to noticeable changes in your mobility, mood, or energy levels.
7. Evidence of Treatment Compliance
Unum may argue that your condition isn’t disabling if you’re not actively treating it. To avoid this, provide evidence that you’re:
- Attending medical appointments regularly
- Following your doctors’ recommendations
- Trying different treatments if prior options failed
Show that you’re doing everything possible to improve your condition, even if progress is limited. This reinforces the seriousness of your claim.
8. Mental Health Documentation (if applicable)
If you suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological conditions that contribute to your disability, include evaluations from licensed mental health professionals. These may include:
- Psychiatric evaluations
- Therapist progress notes
- Medication management records
Psychological disabilities are often harder to prove than physical ones, so professional documentation is critical.
How Darras Law Can Strengthen Your Appeal
Gathering strong evidence is only half the battle—knowing how to present it to Unum is just as important. At Darras Law, we have decades of experience helping individuals nationwide overturn unfair denials by Unum and other major insurance companies. We know what evidence Unum values, what red flags to avoid, and how to frame your appeal for maximum impact.
Our team collaborates with medical experts, vocational specialists, and legal strategists to build compelling appeals tailored to your unique situation. We handle all communication with the insurer and ensure that your appeal is filed completely, correctly, and on time.
Get the Help You Need to Win
Don’t let Unum’s denial be the end of your claim. With the right evidence—and the right legal team—you can fight back and secure the benefits you’ve earned.
Contact Darras Law and speak to our Unum denial attorneys for a free consultation. We’ll review your claim, explain your options, and help you take the next steps with confidence.