New Ninth Circuit Case Limits Standing of ERISA “Plan Beneficiaries” to Exclude Healthcare Providers

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its Insurance Litigation and Disability Insurance News blogs that deal with frequently asked questions in insurance bad faith, life insurance, long term disability insurance, annuities, accidental death...

When Does ERISA Apply to a “Continued” or “Converted” Group Insurance Policy?

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its Insurance Litigation and Disability Insurance News blogs that deal with frequently asked questions in insurance bad faith, life insurance, long term disability insurance, annuities, accidental death...

When and Why Government Plans are not Governed by ERISA

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its California Insurance Litigation Blog that deal with related issues in a series of articles dealing with insurance bad faith, life insurance, long-term disability and short-term disability insurance,...

Demystifying an ERISA Disability Insurance Claim: A Timeline for a Misunderstood Employee Benefit

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its California Insurance Litigation Blog that deal with frequently asked questions in the insurance bad faith, life insurance, long term disability insurance, annuities, accidental death insurance, ERISA and...

For ERISA Disability Insurance Appeals, A Claimant Who is a Day Late May Not Be a Dollar Short

Under most long-term disability insurance plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), a claimant must appeal the denial of any claim for benefits within 180 days of the denial letter. Unless the appeal is made within that strict...

Insurers Do Not Have Discretionary Authority, Absent Clear Language in Official Plan Documents

In actions brought under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), two roads diverge in federal court—and the court’s choice regarding the applicable standard of review can make all the difference in the scope of permissible evidence.  If the...

How to Read Your ERISA Disability Denial Letter: A Gritty Exploration of the Common Language in Actual Denial Letters and How to Respond to Them

If your ERISA short-term disability or long-term disability claim was denied, you likely received a dry, lengthy rejection letter explaining the basis for the denial.  This letter may appear persuasive, but insurers/claims administrators often offer improper...

FAQs: What do you need to know about long-term care insurance?

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its California Insurance Litigation Blog that deal with frequently asked questions in the insurance bad faith, life insurance, long term disability insurance, annuities, accidental death insurance, ERISA and...

FAQs: Should You Hire an Attorney to Help You With Your ERISA Appeal?

The McKennon Law Group PC periodically publishes articles on its California Insurance Litigation Blog that deal with frequently asked questions in the insurance bad faith, life insurance, long term disability insurance, annuities, accidental death insurance and ERISA...

Ten Things to Know Before You File a Claim for Long-Term Disability Insurance Benefits

1. Make Sure You Have a Complete Copy of Your Plan/Policy – The first step when making a claim for long-term disability insurance benefits is to secure a copy of your policy. If your employer provided your insurance coverage, request a full and complete copy of your...