How Do I Know If I Have a Case Against Unum?

If you’ve filed a disability insurance claim with Unum and it was denied, delayed, or mishandled, you may be wondering whether you have legal grounds to take action. Unum is one of the largest disability insurers in the U.S., and while many claims are paid fairly, the company has a long history of disputes over denied benefits. Understanding your rights and knowing what evidence can support a claim against Unum is essential to protecting your financial security.

DarrasLaw breaks down the key signs that you might have a case against Unum, what evidence can help you, and why working with an experienced disability attorney can make all the difference.

1. Your Claim Was Denied Without a Clear Reason

One of the first red flags is a denial letter that lacks a clear explanation. By law, insurers like Unum are required to provide a detailed reason when they deny a claim, including the specific evidence or policy provisions they relied on.
If you received a vague or generic denial letter, or if the explanation doesn’t seem to match your medical records or the policy terms, it could be a sign that the denial was improper. Saving this letter is crucial—it can serve as evidence of an unfair claims practice.

2. Unum Ignored or Downplayed Your Medical Evidence

Another common issue is when Unum discounts the opinions of your treating doctors or ignores key medical documentation. This might look like:

• Claim reviewers focusing on outdated records while ignoring recent test results
• Using in-house medical reviewers who never examined you in person
• Claiming your condition is “subjective” (like chronic pain or mental health disorders) and therefore not disabling

If you can show that you submitted strong medical support and Unum failed to reasonably consider it, you may have a valid bad faith claim.

3. Surveillance or “Gotcha” Tactics Were Used

Unum has faced scrutiny in the past for using aggressive surveillance or social media monitoring to dispute claims. While insurers are allowed to investigate, they must do so fairly. If you were denied after Unum misrepresented normal daily activities (like walking to the mailbox) as proof you can work full time, this can support an argument that they acted in bad faith.

4. Your Benefits Were Terminated Without a Change in Condition

It’s also common for claimants to be approved initially, only to have benefits cut off later—even though their medical condition has not improved. If Unum suddenly stops paying without new evidence that your health has changed, this may be a wrongful termination of benefits. Keeping consistent medical records showing your ongoing limitations can be key to proving your case.

5. Patterns of Delay or Poor Communication

Sometimes Unum doesn’t outright deny a claim, but instead drags out the process through repeated document requests, lost paperwork, or long gaps in communication. These delay tactics can place severe financial strain on claimants. Excessive, unexplained delays may constitute unfair claims handling practices that can be challenged.
What to Do If You Suspect Unum Acted in Bad Faith
If you see any of these warning signs, it’s time to protect yourself:

• Request your full claim file from Unum (you have a legal right to it)
• Organize your evidence, including medical records, denial letters, and communications
• Consult a disability insurance attorney experienced in handling Unum cases

An attorney can review your policy, evaluate Unum’s conduct, and determine if you have grounds to file an appeal or lawsuit. Many work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they recover benefits for you.

Facing a denied or mishandled disability claim from Unum can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already coping with serious health issues. But you don’t have to go through it alone. If Unum denied your claim without cause, ignored your evidence, or acted in bad faith, you may have a strong case for benefits—and possibly additional compensation.
Talking with an experienced disability lawyer can give you clarity, peace of mind, and the best chance of recovering the benefits you deserve.