What Steps Should I Take to Prepare for an Appeal After a Unum Denial?

Receiving a denial letter from Unum for your long-term disability claim can be both frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, Unum is well-known for denying valid disability claims — often relying on vague language, selective medical interpretations, and procedural loopholes. But a denial is not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal, and with the right preparation, you can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

This guide walks you through the key steps you should take to prepare for an appeal after a Unum denial, ensuring your next move is informed, strategic, and backed by strong evidence.

1. Carefully Read the Denial Letter

Start by thoroughly reviewing the denial letter from Unum. This document outlines the reasons your claim was denied, the specific policy language they relied on, and your deadline to file an appeal (usually 180 days under ERISA). Understanding exactly why Unum denied your claim is the foundation of a strong appeal — every point they make needs to be directly addressed with evidence.

Save a copy of the letter and make note of the appeal deadline. Missing this date could forfeit your right to challenge the decision.

2. Request Your Full Claim File

Under ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act), you are entitled to a copy of your complete claim file. This includes medical records, internal notes, communications, and any documents Unum used in making their decision.

Reviewing your file gives you insight into how Unum evaluated your case and what they may have overlooked or misinterpreted. It also helps you identify gaps in documentation that need to be filled before filing your appeal.

3. Collect Updated and Comprehensive Medical Evidence

A common reason Unum denies claims is lack of “objective medical evidence” or inconsistent reports. For your appeal, you should gather detailed, up-to-date medical records that clearly demonstrate how your condition impairs your ability to work.

This may include:

• Diagnostic test results (MRIs, CT scans, lab work)
• Physician’s narrative letters describing functional limitations
• Updated treatment notes
• Functional capacity evaluations (FCEs)
• Mental health evaluations, if relevant
• Statements from specialists familiar with your condition

Ask your doctor to specifically reference how your condition limits your ability to perform your occupational duties — not just your symptoms.

4. Submit Personal and Vocational Evidence

In addition to medical records, include evidence showing how your disability impacts your daily life and job duties. This can include:

• A personal statement describing your symptoms and limitations
• Letters from family, friends, or coworkers
• Job descriptions that detail the physical and cognitive demands of your role
• Vocational expert opinions (when available)

These supplemental materials can help paint a fuller picture of your limitations, especially when medical reports alone may not capture the full impact.

5. Address Every Point Made in the Denial

Your appeal must directly respond to the reasons Unum gave for denying your claim. If they claimed you are not disabled under the policy’s definition, cite specific medical documentation that contradicts that conclusion. If they referenced a doctor’s opinion who never examined you, challenge the validity of that assessment.

Think of your appeal as a legal brief — every claim made in the denial should be met with well-documented rebuttal.

6. Be Aware of Surveillance or Social Media Monitoring

Unum often uses surveillance footage or screenshots from social media to justify denials. If your denial references observed behavior inconsistent with your claimed limitations, be prepared to explain or challenge it with context and medical clarity.

Going forward, be cautious about what you post publicly and assume your actions could be monitored.

7. Prepare a Strong, Organized Appeal Package

When you’re ready to file your appeal, make sure your submission is:

• Organized with a table of contents or cover letter
• Complete with all medical and personal evidence
• Clear in how it addresses each point of the denial
• Timely, filed well before the deadline

Include a summary letter explaining why the denial was improper and how your evidence supports your claim for benefits.

8. Consult a Disability Lawyer Experienced with Unum

While you can file an appeal on your own, it’s often highly beneficial to work with a disability lawyer, especially one who understands Unum’s tactics. ERISA appeals are paper-based, meaning courts typically won’t consider new evidence if your case goes to trial. That makes it critical to get your appeal right the first time.

An experienced attorney can:

• Analyze your denial and policy language
• Help gather the right evidence
• Draft a persuasive appeal letter
• Communicate directly with Unum on your behalf
• Strengthen your position if litigation becomes necessary

Don’t Let a Denial Be the End – How We Can Help

Unum may have denied your disability claim, but you’re far from powerless. By carefully preparing your appeal — backed by solid documentation and possibly legal representation — you can challenge the decision and fight for the benefits you deserve.

At Darras Law, our Unum denial attorneys have helped thousands of policyholders across the country recover the benefits they’re owed. We understand the nuances of the appeals process and know how to build winning cases — even against large insurers. From free policy reviews to aggressive legal advocacy, Darras Law will fight to protect your rights at every step.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the support you need to appeal your Unum denial with confidence.