Did You Receive A Denial Of Benefits From MassMutual?
MassMutual Denial
MassMutual Appeals
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Skilled MassMutual Financial Group Disability Lawyers
With $27.6 billion in revenue, MassMutual was ranked 96th in the Fortune 500 for 2014. Massachusetts Mutual has shown that it can consistently deliver profits, but many policyholders feel that overall profits have come at their expense. If you feel that MassMutual has wrongfully denied or delayed your disability insurance claim, take action to protect your rights.
You have the right to contact an attorney for assistance with the disability benefits process. At DarrasLaw, we review thousands of policies each month. We know what tactics insurers like MassMutual are using to deny valid disability claims.
DarrasLaw brings unparalleled experience, expertise, and resources to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve, whether through negotiation or litigation. As the nation’s leading disability law firm, we are nationally recognized for our success in handling high-stakes disability insurance claims, including disputes and appeals involving Lloyd’s policies. Our dedicated MassMutual Financial Group disability attorneys advocate for individuals whose legitimate claims have been wrongfully delayed or denied by billion-dollar insurance companies.
Led by Frank N. Darras, the country’s preeminent disability attorney, DarrasLaw has recovered nearly $1 billion in unpaid insurance benefits. If your disability insurance claim has been unfairly delayed or denied, we are prepared to help you litigate or appeal your case. Call 800-898-7299 for immediate assistance.
What We See in MassMutual Disability Claims
With decades of experience handling long-term disability cases nationwide, our firm has identified consistent patterns in how MassMutual evaluates and denies claims.
Common issues we see include:
Repeated requests for medical documentation
Even after sufficient records are submitted, claimants are often asked for ongoing updates to delay decisions.
Overreliance on Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)
These exams are frequently used to justify denying or terminating benefits.
Functional Capacity Evaluations (FCEs) used against claimants
Results may be interpreted in a way that minimizes the severity of your condition.
Surveillance and social media monitoring
Insurers may attempt to use limited activity as evidence that you can work.
Sudden benefit terminations after initial approval
Many policyholders are approved initially, only to have benefits cut off during periodic reviews.
Why this matters:
Understanding these tactics allows you to proactively strengthen your claim and avoid common pitfalls.
Why Does MassMutual Deny Disability Claims?
MassMutual may deny a claim for several reasons—some valid, others highly disputable.
The most common reasons include:
- Insufficient medical evidence – Lack of objective documentation supporting your disability
- Failure to meet the policy’s definition of disability – Especially when policies shift from “own occupation” to “any occupation”
- Missed deadlines or incomplete paperwork
- Pre-existing condition exclusions
- Disputes over the severity of your condition
- Surveillance or investigative findings
Important:
A denial does not mean your claim is invalid. Many denied claims are later approved on appeal or through litigation.
How Long Do You Have to Appeal a MassMutual Denial?
In most cases involving employer-sponsored disability policies governed by ERISA, you have:
180 days from the date of denial to file an appeal
Failing to meet this deadline can permanently impact your ability to recover benefits.
Secure The Disability Benefits You Deserve From MassMutual
If you received a denial letter from Massachusetts Mutual after making a valid claim for disability benefits, it may seem as though the company that promised to protect you from some of life’s biggest challenges is actually creating more for you. A denial letter is not the end of the road; in fact, it’s just the beginning. You have the right to fight back against a wrongful denial of disability benefits by MassMutual.
It may be time to contact a top disability insurance attorney if Massachusetts Mutual has done any of the following in processing your claim:
- Requested field visit(s) by a claims manager or claims adjuster from MassMutual
- Challenged your own personal credibility based on your submissions in support of your valid claim for disability benefits
- Was unwilling to accept a resolution in your favor as MassMutual identifies issues with your claim for benefits
- Appeared to completely misunderstand your disability policy or your eligibility for benefits
- Requested mountains of paperwork only to be told that the requested information was never received by Massachusetts Mutual
- Failed to respond in a timely manner when contacted about your valid disability benefits claim, leading to delays in processing your disability benefits
- Required that you attend a Functional Capacity Exam (FCE) or Independent Medical Exam (IME)
- Cancelled your benefits after submission of the proper monthly Disability Progress Report
Whether your disability insurance policy is held by Massachusetts Mutual or that company is acting as a third-party administrator for your disability benefits claim, any time you receive correspondence from the company you should read through it thoroughly. If it contains misstatements about your disability or your benefits claim, you should take steps to correct those immediately. Do not let your disability insurer cloud your valid claim for benefits with mistakes and misinformation. Call a Massachusetts Insurance bad faith lawyer today.
Meet Our Disability Attorneys
Frank N. Darras, Founding Partner
Experience: For more than 30 years, Frank N. Darras has focused exclusively on long-term disability and insurance litigation, including high-stakes disputes against Unum.
Track Record: He and his firm have recovered nearly $1 billion in wrongfully delayed and denied insurance benefits for policyholders nationwide.
Recognition: Named to Lawdragon’s Top 500 Lawyers in America for 18 consecutive years and listed in Best Lawyers in America since 2006, Mr. Darras is widely regarded as a leading authority on ERISA and disability insurance law.
Susan B. Grabarsky, Senior Trial Attorney
Experience: Ms. Grabarsky represents both individual policyholders and employee groups in complex disability disputes. Her prior experience as an insurance cost-containment analyst provides unique insight into how carriers like Unum evaluate and deny claims.
Approach: She leverages her understanding of insurer review tactics to strategically challenge denials and push for full payment of valid benefits.
Reputation: Known for meticulous preparation and assertive advocacy, she has built a strong record confronting unfair disability practices.
Heather Gardner, Senior Associate
Experience: Heather Gardner concentrates on ERISA-governed and individual disability appeals involving Unum and other national carriers.
Role in Litigation: Working closely with Frank Darras, she helps develop comprehensive administrative records and appellate strategies designed to withstand federal court scrutiny.
Professional Strength: She is respected for her precision in analyzing policy language and dismantling complex denial rationales.
Phillip S. Bather, Associate Attorney
Experience: Phillip S. Bather focuses on ERISA litigation and insurance bad-faith disputes, assisting clients through intake, claim development, and administrative appeals.
Case Strategy: He works to assemble compelling evidentiary records aimed at reversing unjust denials and positioning cases for successful litigation when necessary.
Client Commitment: Recognized for his responsiveness and detail-oriented advocacy, he supports claimants facing aggressive insurer resistance.
Trusted Legal Credentials
- AV Preeminent® Rating – Martindale-Hubbell
- Best Lawyers in America – Disability Law
- Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Lawyers
These distinctions reflect decades of focused experience, ethical representation, and consistent results in complex disability insurance litigation.
We’re DarrasLaw. Call Our MassMutual Financial Group Disability Lawyer
Our top-ranked, nationally-recognized MassMutual Financial Group Disability Lawyer is only a phone call away: 800-898-7299. We offer a free consultation to anyone, nationwide, having issues asserting a valid claim for disability benefits from MassMutual.
DarrasLaw offers free policy analysis. Call our disability professionals for assistance if you’re taking out an LTD policy with Massachusetts Mutual.
Disclaimer: Case results, outcomes, and testimonials are not guarantees of future success. Every claim is unique. This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your circumstances, contact one of our attorneys directly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does a MassMutual appeal take?
Appeals typically take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the evidence submitted.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal a disability denial?
While not required, having an experienced disability attorney can significantly improve your chances of success.
Is MassMutual difficult to deal with?
Like many large insurers, MassMutual uses detailed review processes that can make claims and appeals complex.
What happens if my appeal is denied?
You may have the right to file a lawsuit, particularly for ERISA-governed policies.
What should I do immediately after a MassMutual claim denial?
Start by carefully reviewing your denial letter to understand the exact reason for the decision. Then begin gathering stronger medical evidence and documentation before filing your appeal. Acting quickly is critical due to strict deadlines.
Can MassMutual terminate benefits after approving my claim?
Yes. It is common for insurers to approve claims initially and later terminate benefits during periodic reviews, especially when the policy transitions from “own occupation” to “any occupation.”
How often does MassMutual review disability claims?
MassMutual may conduct periodic reviews every few months or annually, depending on your condition and policy terms. These reviews often require updated medical records and proof of continued disability.
Can I submit new evidence during a MassMutual appeal?
Yes—and you should. The appeal stage is often your best opportunity to submit additional evidence that strengthens your claim and addresses the insurer’s reasons for denial.
What is an Independent Medical Examination (IME)?
An IME is an evaluation conducted by a doctor chosen by the insurance company. While presented as “independent,” these exams are often used to challenge or limit your claim.
