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Joseph of Vichy MO (06/24/08)
I was injured at work (Wal-mart, inc) and they sent me to a doctor, who after months of ineffective treatment said my injury was not work related. So I sought medical treatment from the VA and they found a herniated disk in my cervical spine. This herniated disk was also present in the MRI that the worker comps doctor took and did not look at (I know this because when I tried to give him the disc with the images on it he said it was my souviner and to keep it) so long story short, wal-mart refuses to pay my workers comp sayin I was not injured at work and the Hartford won't pay my short term disability, claiming that because Wal mart will not admit or deny it was a work injury, and because if it is a work injury they won't pay, and because worker's comp won't give a definative denial letter (they claim my lawyer didn't file the paperwork properly)
They are denying my claim. I submitted paperwork from wal-mart stating that they and their doctor claim it is not a work related injury, that is not sufficient enough because I had an independent medical evaluation done by my attorney's doctor stating it was work related that it opens the door for future possible worker's compensation monies, therefore the Hartford will not pay my insurance, but if they would pay my insurance then I am required to repay them any monies they give me if I receive worker's compensation or if I file and am awarded Disability.
This has put me in dire finacial straits. I went from having a good job and what I thought was finacial security (i.e. insurance) to living off of food stamps and my girlfriends disability check. I am about to lose my house, car, and everything. I was never told when I signed up for Hartford insurance all the restrictions, or I would never have joined. I paid this company for security and I have to rely on the VA and the state instead and the Hartford took my money.
Sanela of Portland ME (06/05/08)
During my pregnancy I have experienced pregnancy related problems, and was asked by my doctor to stop working immediately. However, the Hartford insurance did not think that pregnancy related problems are good enough reasons for me to stop working two weeks before my due date, and I was denied for any benefits. They are still denying me everything, even my c-section recovery. I left work 6 weeks before my due date, however I also have delivered two weeks before my due date.
When I was talking to someone from Hartford on the phone, they told me that I would qualify for the short disability only if I have left my work two weeks before my due date. Even when I explained them my health problems that were affecting my baby and me, and faxed them over appeal letter, notes, and letters from my doctor, they still are denying me.
I dont know what to do anymore. I had no money to cover my hospital bills and no money to pay my health insurance. Therefore, I had no choice but to quit my job and get free state insurance, so I can take my baby to her doctor visits. I still have to money, I defiantly can not afford a lawyer to help my with this situation.
Rufus of Memphis TN (05/13/08)
In June of 2005 I was informed by my doctors that my Cancer had returned. I was then informed that I would have to have another Stem Cell Transplant. I applied for Short Term Disability and filled out all the necesssary paper work. It was obvious already that this would lead to long term disability. When selecting my benefits package, I opted for the Long Term Disabillity which guaranteed me 60% of my gross salary. While explaning our benefits package, at no time we were told that our benefits were based upon income from other sources. Neither is it written in the policy handbook that was given to us by ITT.
Upon receiving Long Term Disability, I receieved a letter from the Hartford telling me that I had to apply for Social Security. I was also told that the amount I received from Social Security would be deducted from my disability. I told them that this was not the benefit package that I signed up for and showed them that this was not in the policy handbook that was given to us by ITT. I was told that this agreement was between the Hartford and ITT and that it was ITT responsiblity to tell us about this agreement. I again asked why wasn't any of this in our benefits handbook in which I received no answer. After receiving my transplant, my condition got worse and I had to have another transplant.
During this period I started receiving SSI. When I reported my SSI income to the Hartford, they said that I was overpaid and they took my entire disability payments. Currently I donot receive any disability at all. I was told that I will not receive any disability payments until they recoup what they consider was overpayment. I asked about an appeal process and was told that there was no appeal process. I was told that there decision was final and that there was nothing I could do but accept it. I then requested a copy of the handbook that stated this. I was sent three copies of the handbooks that was passed out by ITT.
Finally, upon further prodding, I was sent a copy of their proposed handbook which is clearly different and spelled out in detail the benefits. I cannot understand why we were led to believe we were getting one coverage, while in fact we were getting another. I was told that any income I receieve will be deducted from my disabiility. The purpose of my purchasing this insurance was to make sure that I would be able to take care of my family during my time of illness.
Due to the fact that they have now taken all of my income, the stress alone has caused me numerouos health issues. I have problems sleeping at nights. Im in jeopardy of losing my home. I can't even pay for my medicine. Currently I take medication for high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, neuropathy, and my doctors feel that I am depressed. How can they just take every dime that I paid for. Im paying for an insurance that I am not getting any coverage for. At this moment right now I have 5 Prescriptions that's at the pharmacy right now, that I need to take but I don't have the money to pay for them. I struggle to make doctor's appointments because I can't afford the gas to get there. I have to see at least 7 different specialists a week.
Battling this Terminal Cancer is hard enough without having to fight with Hartford Disability for something I've paid for. Please, please help me get my disability restarted. This is totally unfair. I have testimonials from other clients who have gone through the same thing including a former worker for the Hartford that was told the same thing that I was.We were told that we would receive 60% of our income and I think that the Hartford need to honor it's agreement. My wife has Power of Attorney over all my affairs due to the nature of my illness and has full rights to act and make decisions on my behalf. The illness that I have is Multiple Myeloma.
Mark of East Ellijay GA (05/10/08)
I was diagnosed with a disease in which I had to have chemo type drugs for almost a year. All this due to a car accident from years back. But the policy was suppose to pay me benefits. They did. But Not with out circumstances. I have had 33 operations. Total hip replacement, spinal fusion, cervical diskectomy and many others to relieve the pain. Nothing works. Now I am on 200mg Oxy a day to relieve the pain. When I leave the house it is timed so that it is after I take my meds so I feel better. I have to admit, I thought they were doing pretty good in administering my claim.
But things changed. As I read these comments above I see a lot that was done to me. They harassed myself as well as family members and especially my 72 year old mother. They (the PI they hired) parked right in front of her apartment with their lights on with them set right on in the living room. They just sit there. Watching to see what time we went to bed and what time we got up.
Folks, ALL I GOT TO SAY IS DON'T BELIEVE A WORD THEY TELL YOU. They sound so nice over the phone but.... The examiner they had come out to the house also took everything I said out of context. He worded it to fit what he needed me to say. The PI's lied on about 80% of the report. IT was after this I knew I could not trust them 1%. In their termination letter they stated many false accusations and used these to terminate my benefits the end of the year. WITHOUT ANY NOTIFICATION, until it was said and done.
I hired an attorney, who wasn't even an ERISA attorney. I should have used an ERISA attorney. I spent $6000 on fees, including hiring a Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist that works for Social Security, yes FOR social security. His jaw dropped when he went through my file. The insurance company said out of 13000 jobs, they found 3 that I could do. Strange thing, no one knew what those jobs were. But they did pay the required amount to satisfy my claim defination of disabled. So they said I could do those jobs. Unfortunately, who is going to hire someone who is taking 13 different types medication especially 200mg Oxycontin a day. I would most certainly be a liability. I believe The Hartford terminates claims knowing that the customers can not hire attorneys because they cant afford them. I had 3 doc's at the time stating I was disabled. But they got some Hired Hands to review my records, and not even meet me, and determine that I was in fact able to work. My benefits were terminated without warning. And if you are on disability you know it comes at a price.
I appealed their decision, and according to ERISA they can request yet ANOTHER 45 days to make up their minds. Which is exactly what they did. Causing me even more hardship. My credit was ruined, I was homeless and like many other I though seriously about SUICIDE. Folks, I think that is exactly what they want us to do. Get rid of us and they don't have a claim. I think that once you have been approved for Social Security Disability, they should be a limit as to what they can do to you after that.
Jerry of Judsonia AR (05/07/08)
i have been on dis. for over 10 years .now harford put me out of my benfet .i have 6 mo to apeal .but i am wore out .it have been 5 mo. with out check .my doctor said i am disbilty .i will never get better .at time i just want to die to get out of pain .hartfort will be glad if i did thay have made it hard for the last 10 years
thay were supto to help me till age 65 thay even offter me i think over 40,000.00 but i need the checks over the years and i decline the 40. so thay say i could work and cut me off .if i cant work ,i cant belive tay can take me checks
Beth of Orlando FL (03/23/08)
I have been on LTD through The Hartford since 2/07. I recently met with someone in my home to review my claim as the one year mark approached. Everything I said and explained to him was taken out of context. I have an autonomic dysfunction that is very hard to explain to others. There are many symptoms that I experience. They knew I was going to an endocrinologist as my adrenal glands aren't functioning properly and having additional blood work, etc. performed. They didn't wait for the new results, they disagreed with my cardiologist who has been treating me for over three years as I've gotten progressively worse. The people they have reviewing the claim and judging whether you can or cannot function daily do not treat you, see you on a daily basis, etc. I did not lie about any duties I am able to perform or not perform.
They videotaped me for four days, without my knowledge out of 18 months out of work and decided I could sit for 8 hrs a day even though my blood pressure drops while sitting, my face swells, my heart will race, the same symptoms I get while standing or walking. My cardiologist documented all of this and explained to them I've had episodes in her office while sitting but they don't care. I just received a letter that they cut off all benefits, including what health insurance I had left for the next few months. Now I have no income, no insurance for myself and daughters and don't know where to turn. I don't see how they can do this to people and put their lives at risk. I now face the possibility of losing my car, my home, etc. How can they get away with not listening to the doctors who have been treating you?
I am now losing my monthly income and insurance benefits for myself and daughters that I should have had until August. My illness gets worse with stress and I have been a mess since all of this. Because they don't understand the autonomic dysfunction and everything that goes with that, they decided I didn't need the benefits and could work. I risk losing everything I own!
Brian of Salisbury NC (03/17/08)
I am on Workman's Comp. due to an on the Job Injury. I have a hard time getting my money from them. I cannot get anyone to respond or return calls. This has been an ongoing battle from day one. I have a doctors stating I cannot perform my previous duties and now no one wants to talk with me or send me my owed money. I have had to fight with them on many occasions.
I have a son with some major Medical Problems. Due to this, I cannot get my bills paid and all the needed care for my son.
Lanetta of Sacramento CA (01/24/08)
I purchased long term disability insurance from Union Secure for union members. The policy was issued by Hartford. My injury occured on 8-22-07 and I filed a claim with Hartford. I sent in the claim form with doctor statements and was told the claim was being investigated. I then contacted them and the said they needed a wage statement from my employer. After that was received, they said it did not break down the overtime. So after a lot of back and forth, I finally asked the adjuster why he could not just do the math. I am guaranteed 40 hrs. a week and anything after that is overtime. He told me he would take the extra step to help me out.
Now they are saying I received my policy amount from workers comp and they will not pay the claim. I purchased this insurance because I wanted to make sure I would be able to cover all my bills in the event of an injury at work. Is there something that can be done about this? I would not have purchased this insurance if it was stated on the application I filled out that they would not cover me if I received worker's comp because I know they will pay me max benefits.I have been stoned walled throughout this experience by the Worker's comp adjuster and Hartford insurance adjuster.
Nicole of King George VA (01/17/08)
I was placed on short term disability early during my pregnancy, at approximately week 20. I had various complications, and my doctor told me to take leave and would back up to the beginning of the week (when I initially took leave). I conducted every phone call, follow-ups, and a lot of frustrating/pressuring messages to get my employer and doctor to get EVERYTHING that Hartford continued to say they needed. At various times I was told everything was received, and then 48-72 hours later I would call--having not heard from Hartford. I would be told that they still needed something, and my barrage of calls to employer/doctor would start again.
Once I got everything to Hartford it took them over 72 hours to make a decision, and again I had to call them to find out that they were denying me. Their reasoning was that I had a 5-day lapse of no work before the doctor placed me on leave. But, the reality is: I did not. The week prior to being placed on leave was Thanksgiving week, I had Wed. off (pre-approved by my employer for my mid-pregnancy ultrasound). Thursday was Thanksgiving, and Friday was a paid holiday for my employer. I have argued this and have been told that I can appeal once I receive a letter from Hartford with all of that information. However, here I am a week later and nothing.
I am set for eviction in one week, my car insurance has expired, I cannot afford diapers for my 2-year-old, and am now 8 months pregnant and without income.
Michael of Hewitt TX (01/07/08)
I have been insured with The Hartford for years because AARP recommends them. Being on a fixed income and a senior citizen I thought that AARP was looking out for my best interests. At least that's what they make you feel. I found that Met Life gives me more coverage at a cheaper price.
I feel that all these years I have been overcharged for my auto and home insurances. AARP is in fact telling seniors untruths.
Diana of Chicago IL (11/28/07)
I submitted a personal health application and was requesting weekly short term disability. I received a letter from The Hartford insurance company saying Your request for Weekly Disability has been declined based on the personal and medical information provided. Specifically, this request was declined because the heigh and weight measurements of 5 feet 3 inches and 190 pounds are not within our acceptable underwriting risk paramenters. I am a perfectly healthy 26 year old female, I am a non smoker, I am on no medication. The Hartford basically called me Fat and Unhealthy!
Karen of Louisville CO (11/28/07)
After having faithfully paid my disability premiums on time for years, I unfortunately became disabled due to a car accident. The Hartford said that I was disabled but not by the car accident but because I was mentally ill. That gave them the right to cut off my benefits after 2 years. I am not and have never been mentally ill. There is no record of mental illness of any sort in my medical history. Social Security has been easier and more reasonable to deal with.
This has dragged out 4 years now and I am losing my house, my car and most of my possessions. My credit is shot. I am stressed and depressed. My attorney fees have eaten up most of my savings.
Nanci of Sacramento CA (11/15/07)
I was a Hartford employee for 20 years, working as a team leader in the claims department, along with several other jobs along the way. I was injured at work in 1996, suffering annular tears in two discs in my back. Every year I am sent a questionnaire asking me for the same information. Every year I send it back telling them what I can and cannot do. The doctors have filed their forms as well.
Hartford has somehow gotten the idea that I can perform work within my limitations to the tune of 10-15 hours per week. Yesterday I received a letter saying that they are terminating my right to my Group Life Insurance benefits because I am not disabled. Is this a precursor to them terminating my Long Term Disability benefits, which I happily paid for throughout my career? How can they say I can work when limited to 10 hours per week with restrictions of not being able to sit for an hour and stand for 1/2 hour? It's ludicrous. Not to mention that The Hartford apparently didn't contact any of my other medical providers, specifically my Pain Specialists, who I see every month for very strong pain meds including Morphine, Neurontin, and Clonipin.
How can I find a good ERISA attorney, one whom can and will fight for my rights, and when is someone going to take The Hartford on in a class action suit about their LTD policies? I'd like to know the outcome of anyone else's problems with The Hartford. It seems the big corporations are able to run roughshod over their former employees and everyone turns their heads the other way.
If they stop my disability payments I will be reduced to supporting my family on the money I get from Social Security disability. I will not have any health insurance benefits for them although I will still have Medicare. I made good money and my LTD payments along with my Social Security are 70% of my prior pay, so there is a substantial amount at stake.
Raymond of Strykersville NY (10/17/07)
My long term disability with Hartford should have started 8/1/07. I have been in contact and gave all they requested, overnight and faxing when required. I did not hear anything about my case until I checked on-line, 10/15/07, and saw I would be getting a check for $326. This was for 3 months they owed me. I should be getting 60% of my $66,000 a year salary. I received the check for $326 on 10/16 with no explanation.
I have had to sell things to keep from losing everything I worked for, not counting the stress and mental anguish Hartford has put me through.
Maureen of Valrico FL (09/21/07)
I was taken out on medical leave back in April of 2007 by my physician. Since filing with The Hartford Group, they have stopped payment on my insurance for many reasons! First, it took them over 6 weeks to receive first pay. I then received only 2 paychecks and was cut off again stating information from my physician has not been received. It took over 8 weeks for them to reopen my claim. I then received 3 weeks pay and was cut off again stating information not received again! I have been in contact with my physicians office and they state that they have been calling and leaving messages and have sent necessary paperwork to continue with my disability but yet The Hartford Group denies all calls being received and that no paperwork has been received!
Becky of Fern Park FL (09/06/07)
I was a Hartford employee with 7 years of service when I became disabled. I contributed towards my LTD benefits every pay check. On Nov.16, 2005 I had extensive back surgery which included instrumentation. I returned to my job as a Claims Specialist on March 3, 2006 on a work hardening program which was to start out with reduced hours and work my way back into full time hours. In March I slipped and fell down some stairs @ home causing neck, shoulder and right arm pain. In July 2006 I also came down with Epstein Barr Virus. I found it difficult to work due to neck pain, headaches and numbness in my right arm and severe fatigue. However, upon my return to work in March 2006 I immediately received a negative performance review and felt as though my job was in jeopardy.
However, on July 25, 2006 Hartford terminated my LTD benefits knowing full well I had a follow up visit scheduled for July 27, 2006 with my surgeon. I worked full time hours through Aug.3, 2006 at which time I was taken out of work by my Internal Medicine doctor secondary to the Epstein Barr Mono Virus. Even though my surgeon did give me permanent reduced work hours after my visit to him and was taken out of work by my Internal Med doc, my benefits remained denied.
I have suffered emotionally and physically because of this horrible experience. My family has also suffered. I have had to take out two home equity loans to pay bills and also took money out of my 401K to pay hospital bills. Everyday is a struggle.
Lorraine of Larkspur CA (08/08/07)
I know what Judy (disability insurance) is going through. In 1997 I injured myself and filed for benefits under Hartford Insurance Co..
I was approved, and received benefits, after retaining counsel. However, in the 12 years of receiving benefits, Hartford claims I can return to full time employment. Every 2 years I am photographed, followed and minutely examined by their doctors and henchmen. I must pay an attorney thousands of dollars each time. Every year they pour through confidential records to find even the slightest discrepancy. If I say I can walk for 45 minutes, they jump and threaten to stop benefits if I've walked for 47 minutes. I am a puppet on a string.
I am under an increasing load of debt; Hartford pays no interest and no penalties when stopping my benefits for up to 8 months. I incur attorney fees. I can never get out of debt. The last doctor (IME) which Hartford sent me to hurt me so much during the examination that I was bedridden for over a month. Hartford knows I can't fight back. This is insane. Why isn't anyone fighting these people? Is it because there is no federal law protecting us? Do we, like Judy, rely on our own state's laws, which may or may not cover us? My moving to another state (other than CA) with less stringent state laws, has resulted in an immediate investigation of me by Hartford. I can't move out of state because of the threat of being booted off my disability. Incidentally, I also have SS disability; the federal government has stated I'm 100% permanently disabled. Hartford won't accept that. Read Ray Bhouris' book.
Dennis of La Pine OR (07/30/07)
I came down with a disabling illness around 1996. By 2000 I was forced by my DR. to go on long term disability. I applied with my employer under the terms of a long term disability policy that my employer had purchased for me for several years with the Hartford. Under the terms of the policy my employer covered the disability payments for six months and then the payments were transfered to the Hartford. Initially the Hartford granted my request for disability payments but for only two years under their mental disease exception. During those two years I went to the Mayo Clinic twice in an attempt to find out what was causing my symptoms. The Mayo clinic referred me to Oregon Health Science University where ther diagnosed my condition and notified The Hartford of my diagnosis. The Hartford then granted my long term disability and paid the contract disability payments through June of 2007. They then dropped my claim with a long bogus explanation that did not include any reference to my primary diagnostic condition or physician. I plan to appeal.
This discontinuation of my long term disability payments has reduced my income by 60% and will eventually eat up all our savings and we will lose our home if the payments are not reinstated.
Warren of Bayside NY (03/21/07)
I am retired USAF and was working after retirement and became unable to work .I collected LTD from CNA for about 14 years, Then some how the Hartford to over my payments, Just before I turned 60 years old they started screwing with me, they terminated my payments at 60 years, 3 months old and and then denied my appeal even after having 11 hour spinal decompression L-2 to S-1surgery at the VA. I contact a lawyer who said I had a good case but would not take it for there wasn't enough money left since I was 60. People have told me the Hartford and other companies terminate payments of people at around 60 for they know we have no way to fight since the lawyers will not take the cases because the LTD policies only paid to 65.
I was forced into my last spinal decompression L-2 to S-1 surgery after they terminated my LTD, Surgery was ok after and now I am returning to as before.They took 3 very short pictures of me, One getting into my car, they say I drove to the supermarket, no pictures of me there. Then a picture of picking up a newspaper in my front yard. thrn carrying a small package up my front steps.at the time I was on 60mg of slow release Morphine 2X's daily and immedate release morphine when needed for pain.Funny they don't have anything else and I had been on LTD since 1992.
Kathy of Cincinnati OH (05/18/06)
In 1999 I received short term disability benefits from Hartford. In October 1999 my Long Term Disability Benefits started. I received a letter in December 2000 stating my benefits were terminated as of November 2000 because I misrepresented my claim. Hartford performed a couple of surveillances and seen me go to a doctors appointment they scheduled me for and to the grocery store on the same day. They said I was capable of doing more than I reported.
On my application for long term disability benefits I did report that I went to doctors appts and to the grocery store, I have two children. After the first surveillance of two days Hartford had me on video moving my vehicle which was for about 10 seconds. On the second surveillance, which lasted three days Hartford did not get me on video the first or the third day. The only day they videoed me was the days they scheduled a functional capacity evaluation. Hartford also reported me to the Ohio Department of Insurance for Fraud.
I represented myself and filed a claim in Federal Court against Hartford. I won the first case. Hartford then appealled the court decision and I also won the appeal. Financially Hartford has ruined me, my home was in Foreclosure, my children were without electric and we have all suffered tremendously. But I am not through yet. ERISA law needs to be changed and I intend to do that.
Kenneth of Palm Coast FL (05/17/06)
I was recently denied my long term disabilty claim from THE HARTFORD after paying them through WALMART for over three years. What am I paying for Long Term Disability Insurance in my paycheck when they automatically deny a worker when he is in need of this benefit and have a chart of denial guideline to deny me my entitlement of my benefit?
This is called making money off of an associate between Walmart and Hartford Insurance Company and not providing this quote great Benefit. Plus they say this is a Walmart policy. In February I started getting huge blisters on my feet and ended up in the ER to have them taken care of. I am a diabetic but have never had any problems with my feet or legs. My doctors told me I could go back to work in a week but that I was to take a break every two hours and elevate them, which should not have been a problem as an assistant manager I have plenty of paper work to do and therefore this would not have to be considered a break.
The general store manager had no problem with that, he appeared to be glad to have me back (BTW, I have used only 1 sick day in 10 years ); however, as soon as he would leave the co-manager would not allow me to do this. The minute I sat down she would MAKE me go do something else. Within 2 weeks I could hardly walk and the pain was so bad I ended up at a neurologist. At first, he'd thought I would be able to get back to my job within 6 weeks but as of now he has me out until September which will make 7 months. I have had physical therapy, seen the podiatrist, bought home medical equipment and done everything that they have all told me do. Hartford denied the claim, saying that neuropothy was a pre existing condition because everyone who has diabetes will eventually get neuropathy in their feet. When I questioned them about the information provided to them and by what doctors, they had my sleep study doctor down as saying that he had seen me for the diabetes.
Thank goodness for my wife's health insurance though her employer. I have been on hers ever since she was able to pick it up. My salary continuance ends in 2 paychecks. I don't know if I can file for unemployment with the doctor's restrictions. I have not been idle while out on leave, but finished completing my paralegal degree that I have been working on, along with taking advantage of free computor courses offered through our local work force. I'll never be able to go back to a stand up job, the nerve damage is so severe that if I am on them for more than 10-15 minutes I have to find a place to sit down. I don't want to be out of work, I am only 43 but I do need to get over this hurdle without falling through the cracks.
Samantha of Indianapolis IN (04/17/06)
I have short-term disability insurance through my work. My employer chose The Hartford Group to take care of short-term disability claims. I was scheduled for a spinal cord stimulation implant surgery to remedy chest wall pain that I have suffered with for two years. The Hartford Group requested that I call the last day I work before my surgery to start the claim, March 13. (It would be too easy for them to start working on the claim before the surgery....) I called and was told that the work would be started on my claim. About seven days after this call, I received a letter from The Hartford Group. They agreed to pay for one day off, March 21. The days off from March 14-March 20 would come out of my paid time off as an elimation period... Wow, how generous!
I was orginally to be out of work from March 14, returning to work on March 20. Unfortunately, due to complications from surgery, I did not return to work until March 28. The doctor did not release me to go back to work until this date. When I called Hartford to indicate that I would be returning to work the next day, March 28, I was told if I had time to call the doctor's office to get my doctor's visits office notes. I was told it was not necessary (just some extra assistance from the patient side) as the claims administrator would ensure all necessary paperwork for the additional time off would be collected to process these extra days.
I am scheduled for the same type of surgery tomorrow, April 18, to correct some problems that resulted from the first surgery. The Hartford Group refuses to re-open my claim. They stated they never received the attending physician statement or the office visits notes from the first surgery. I told the customer service rep. that I was told the claims admin. would take care of that. Now I am being told that this was my responsibility to take care of. What is Hartford getting paid for???? This is their job to do!
I am now going to have to spend the time off that I have after this second surgery on the phone all day playing the telephone game with my doctor's office and Hartford. So much for recovery time! Hartford Group is pathetic! They are paid for a service that they do not deliver on. In fact, the customer service rep. told me an analogy about when you have a car accident, it is your responsibility to take care of all the paperwork and calls to get a claim paid. I corrected her and stated that , 'Yes, that is true if you have a lazy insurance company!' Anytime I have had to file anything for my car, my insurance rep. takes care of everything. He has even told me several times when I thank him for the awesome service, 'Mam, that is my job.' I wish Hartford would get the hint!
I am going to raise a big 'stink' with my employer when I return from leave again about Hartford and their pathetic service! My employer always bosts about what awesome benefits they have. If they want to stand by this, they will drop Hartford as their short-term disability carrier.
The time off from March 22-March 27 is being paid from my accrued paid time off that is really meant for vacation time. The time off for my second surgery will come out of my paid time off as well. (Which I am running out of... guess no vacation for me this year!)Hartford should honor the extra time off from the first surgery and all the time off from the second surgery. This is a legitimate claim. I should not have to do the claims administrators job for them to get the claim processed. They are being paid for this service. It is unacceptable to insist that the patient do all the work for them! Who knows.. they say that it takes longer to heal when you are stressed... I may have to be off longer than expected after this second surgery, because of the stress that Hartford is putting me through.
India of Fort Wayne IN (03/10/06)
The Hartford Paid for a Functional Capacity Evaluation April 28, 2005 after my physician refused to complete the Attending Physician Statement form. She repeatedly said she did not take me off work. Dr. Joseph Fortin and Social Security disability stopped me from working, however, Dr. Fortin ask me not to return since the bill was not paid.None of the doctors I have seen wiill complete the form.
The Hartford resumed paymentin May 2005 after stopping it for a year.They sent a partial payment in January 2006, then stopped payment again.Iam unable to pay mortgage and utilities without this check. the frustration causes my neck and bacj to hurt more.
Paige of Oxford WI (3/15/05):
I have elected, carried and paid monthly out of my pocket for LTD with Hartford since I began working as a Human Resources Manager at Donaldson Company in March 1998. Additionally, as an HR Manager I openly advocated and encouraged all our employees to take LTD - "just in case".
In August 1998, I suffered a fall while working. I herniated one disk C6-C7 and had a protrusion (bulge) at C4-C5. I received many different treatments including neck traction for about one year. The doctors finally said there was nothing more they could do. I still had daily pain, but I had been working my normal job full-time since the accident. However, the pain was gradually becoming more severe. In February 2002 I made an appointment on my own with an Orthopedic Surgeon who ordered a bone scan. On the way to the bone scan, my car was rear-ended while I was stopped behind three other cars. The pain started a few hours later and continued to get worse.
An MRI showed that the protrusion had herniated as a result of the car accident. The Orthopedic Surgeon took me off work and prescribed Vicadin and muscle relaxers. I tried to go back to work three weeks later, but the headaches and pain were unbearable. The Ortho put me on STD and referred me to a Neuro-surgeon. In addition I have seen my family physican, a neurologist, 2 rehabilitation physicians, and spent 9 weeks in physical therapy.
As my Short-term disability ran out, my family physician and my rehab physician both completed LTD paperwork. My rehab physican, Dr. Russell Gelfman, is employed at Mayo Clinic and is many times hired by the state and insurance companies to deny LTD for people. After examining me, he believed that I could not perform my job as a Human Resources Manager. He also applied work restrictions which prevented me from doing any job that we could think of. He then supported my efforts to file and collect Social Security disability payments.
My current diagnosis includes 2 herniated disks, cervicogenic (migraine) headaches, chronic pain syndrome (a disease that causes pain in the muscles, joints and tendons; usually caused by trauma), bi-lateral carpal tunnel, and situational depression. Hartford initially denied my claim.
After receiving the paperwork from Dr. Gelfman, they accepted the claim and paid 6 months of LTD. After that it was one reason after another to deny my claim. Not one thing had changed medically for me, but Hartford would say "you have not provided sufficient proof of loss", or "you have not provided suitable objective evidence" of your condition, all those word games they play. Hartford claimed to send out for two independent medical reviews where, of course, these physicians who never saw or talked to me or my family said that I was not only able to work, but that I could return to my old job full-time.
After paying 6 months, they denied my claim all the way through appeal. My doctors did not change anything and my condition has not changed. In August 2004 I was awarded Social Security Disability after hiring an attorney which cost me over $5300.00. I was provided retroactive pay from the date of the car accident. I sent the fully favorable decision to Hartford on final appeal. They stated that their criteria for "total disability" is different and that their previous denial is upheld.
I had a Social Security disabilty attorney and a car accident attorney. They gave me names of two attorneys they know who might handle the case. One attorney wanted a $3,000 retainer and the other a $5,000 retainer. They told me these cases are very hard to win. They said that in my jurisdiction in Wisconsin there is one "fair" federal judge and one that supports the companies. It's a 50-50 chance and therefore, they require the retainer up front.
While I did receive some money from LTD and a bigger chunk from Social Security, money is tight. At the time of the car accident I was making good money and was the primary monetary support for my family. I have one step-child who my husband pays child support for, and my own two children who were 5 years and 14 months at the time of the car accident. We went through all of my savings and the LTD money just to buy groceries, pay the mortgage, and pay utilities - everyday things.
When we got the Social Security, I put some away for the kids' education and we fixed the house things that were literally falling down around us. We are not in financial ruin yet because of my husband's job and my belief in saving money. I worked days and went to school at night to pay for and receive my master's degree in 1993. I wanted my family to be financially solid. Also the reason I paid for LTD insurance.
I am scared to put out $3K-$10K for something the attorneys seem so unsure about, especially with two small children and only a small monthly income from Social Security for several years or maybe the rest of my life. People think I will get a lot from the car accident. However, my attorney gets 1/3, I have to pay back the 6 months of LTD and I have to pay back Social Security. If I were to win, this tidbit will not last long.
I am 41 and probably disabled for life.
My benefits were all gone after I could not return to work. I can not afford to buy life insurance. My prescriptions cost $300-$400 per month. I am currently taking Kadian (Morphine) and Vicadin daily. I also take Effexor, and Trazodone and Valium as needed. I have no dental insurance for a family of 5 with small kids. If you do the math, you can appreciate that I need the LTD money that I paid for and that I deserve to have. How do I find an attorney willing to take this on contingency? I know that Hartford "banks" on the plan that people will give up or die. Well, I can't. I have two small children who need me and they don't deserve all this either.
Anjetta of Effingham IL (2/14/05):
My doctor and employer put me out on disability due to problems with my hip and back wich I have dealt with for about 4 years now. My employer waqs unable to find a place to put me that fit within my restrictions. So I filed my claim with Hartford. I called several times a week to get the status of my claim. They dragged this out for almost 4 weeks only to deny my benefits.
I, like others, have been put in such a financial strain. I am a single mother with only one income. I receive no child support and live from paycheck to paycheck. I am unable to put food on the table to feed my daughter, but they do not care. I told them at this point I could care less about getting my bills paid, I just need to feed my daughter. Since I have been denied, my employer has found a position for the moment but no telling how long. And even though I am back, it will be another 2 weeks before I get a paycheck. You think they'd pay STD for the nervous breakdowns that they cause their customers to have?
Michele of Cincinnati OH (7/15/03):
I am a Flight Attendant who has medical documentation supporting the fact that I can not perform the duties of my occupation. My occupation, as described by my employer, is a Flight Attendant. Per my employer, I am unable to return to work until I can perform the duties of a Flight Attendant. Hartford Insurance Company has repeatedly denied my short-term disability claim, on the grounds that they are challenging what my occupation is at Comair Airlines.
Comair has clearly stated that my occupation is and always has been that of a Flight Attendant, and that if I can not return to work and perform the duties of a Flight Attendant, I must remain on medical leave. As of February 14th, 2003, I have medical documentation supporting my inability to return to work as a Flight Attendant. I have filed an appeal with Hartford about the decision the deny my claim and that was also denied. I just want to collect on the short-term disability policy that I have been paying into since 1996.
I have not collected any short term disability for the time that I have been off, putting a huge economic strain on my family.
Michele should hire an attorney.
Brian of Bradford AR (10/7/03):
After receiving the entire requested information from both my physicians (both my family doctor and my specialist) the insurance company still denied my claim. Both doctors made claim that I was not able to work because of my problems and began treatments to correct the problem however Hartford Life would not grant my short-term Disability claim.
My family have come into a very severe finical bind. We do not have enough funds to pay bills, get food, or gas. My parents have had to pay my child support and I have a bankruptcy payment that has not been paid in months. My wife who is the only one working is on the verge of having a nervous breakdown. My insurance dues are still due and we don’t have enough to make the next payment and then we will be cut off from insurance coverage all together.
Brian should also contact an attorney immediately. He may qualify for Legal Aid.
Barbara of Cape Elizabeth ME (8/2/03):
Started with short-term disability leading into long-tern. It has been very difficult to collect any benefits. They have been deceptive, always delaying payments, rude on the phone, never able to contact the examiner, and they will never return my calls. The reason that people never are able to recover and get back to work is because of their uncaring attitude. They are in the business of collecting premiums and looking to never pay any claimants.
I am financially ruined. Not able to get gas for my car, make car or utility payments. Unable to pay the rent, having to pay late fees and just will have to become a street person after working all of my life an average of 65-80 hours a week. That is just what The Hartford has in mind!
Karen of Hazard KY (7/23/03):
From work I purchased a plan for disabilty insurance through Hartford. This was to cover me if I was off from work more than 8 days for a short-term illness or injury. On February 22, 2003, I left work with a sudden onset of intense back pain. On March 2, 2003 I called Hartford to make a short-term claim. Since then I have not returned to work. I have sent two letters from my current doctor that states that I am totally and permanently disabled, and and unable to return to work.
Hartford does not know the meaning of "totally and permanently disabled". I still get turned down for my claim. During this time I changed doctors and it goes back to my orginal doctor that stated that I was not told to stay off from work. I have seen a neurologist for my chronic back pain which ordered MRIs on my back to be done. The MRIs show bulges at my C5 and L5 verterbrae and that the T12 verterbrae is deseccatatied (dried out). The radiologist reports that this is normal. The pain is real. I have to force myself to get out of bed some mornings because of the pain. I have had two epidural shots in my back for the pain. These shots have not helped the pain. This not the first time that Hartford has denied a disabilty claim for me.
Currently I am about to have my home forclosed on, electric turned off and other utilities turned off. Also, this matter has caused me to be unable to buy medicine that is needed for other conditions that I suffer from. This has aggravated these conditions to the point that I was hospitalized because of severe headache. The denial of my claim has really put a financial strain on me. I have applied for Social Security disabilty on the advice of my doctor. Still with no income coming in, I am in no better finanical condition. I do not know what to do or were to turn for help with this.
If Karen was injured at work, she may qualify for Workers' Compensation. She should contact an experienced and aggressive workers' comp attorney immediately. Also, if her income has stopped, she should consider filing for bankruptcy and Medicaid.
Margery of Wakefield MI (7/7/03):
I have paid into a disability policy related to employment and have been twice denied claims despite my own physician's stating I am disabled from performing my profession, which is the exact purpose of the policy. I was told "it wouldn't be fair to others suffering from similar pain and (MS-like) problems because we can not measure your improvement." They delayed month after month, they stall, they are evasive, they do not return calls unless we bring up lawsuits.
I know this is rampant through the AMTA which offers this insurance and it is time for a class action suit. Since their tactics are designed to wear the ill/injured person policy holder down, most give up. They know we have no money to go against their army of lawyers. One legal fee to them would have paid my claim for a year and allowed me to recover, if possible, or at least learn a new profession. They deserve to be brought to justice and made to pay for damages to the thousands who count on their disability-by-profession policies.
Waiting for them to answer claim left me without income, lost health insurance, exacerbated depression, became a financial fiasco, forced me to work against doctors' orders in order to provide for myself.
A class action suit may indeed be called for. But in the meantime, Margery should find an aggressive trial attorney who will take her case on contingency. This means she pays nothing unless she wins, in which case the attorney's fee comes out of the settlement.
Richard of Mineville NY (5/9/03):
My husband went out of work January 8, 2003 due to chronic pain from work-related injuries. Other medical issues developed and workmans comp declined payment stating he was out of work for unrelated injuries. He applied for disability benefits through his employer (monies have been payroll-deducted for this disability insurance for approx 2 years). He inquired when he initially went out of work but was told by his employer he could not claim comp and disability at the same time.
When he applied April 4th (a week after notification from comp that his payments were stopped) there were several miscommunications that were improperly handled. The paperwork was dated and signed by the employer and physician. When input into the system, it was incorrectly documented as "death benefit claim". No phone calls or correspondence regarding discrepancy. After several calls to Hartford by myself and his employer the final determination was he was not eligible for the benefits due to his termination.
My husband was never terminated from his employment. He returned to work April 14th, 2003 due to financial stresses. Last correspondence with Hartford was Friday, May 2nd with explanation that correspondence was mailed explaining their decision. To date, nothing has been received via mail. Hartford refused to disclose any information to his employer.
Due to finances, my husband had no choice but to return to work. He is still in chronic pain for which he receives medical treatment. Recent medical findings show permanent nerve damage in his arms and possible shoulder surgery is being considered. How can a company dispute medical information confirming a disability and refuse payment?
Angelica of San Jose CA (6/13/02):
Hartford is the disability carrier for my former employer, Allstate. I was still employed on February 12, 2002 when I was placed on disability by my doctors. I returned to work on March 12, 2002 because I was pressured by my employer to do so. I was harassed, threatened, etc., by my employer and was forced to resign from my job on March 13, 2002.
My illness became worse so I contacted Hartford about re-opening my disability claim. They told me to file a claim with EDD. I filed a claim with EDD who told me that the claim was sent to Hartford since my disability began while I was still employed. Hartford supposedly assured EDD that it was re-open my claim. However, Hartford has not processed nor sent me disability checks to this date.
Updated medical records were sent to them per their request. I've contacted them by phone, by mail, by fax, but all they say is that my claim will be evaluated. Hartford owes my disability benefits from March 13, 2002 up to the present and subsequently until I am able to return to work.
I do not have any source of income. My illness has become worse. I am totally broke and may lose my home in a few days. Hartford's practice is unfair and is in bad faith, since premiums for SDI had been deducted from my paychecks for the five years I worked at Allstate.
The damages are enormous: I am totally financially broke. I am unable to seek medical help. I am only a few days from becoming evicted from my home. My illness has gotten worse from the aggravation and worrying.
Loretta of Winfield TN (6/10/03):
I carried HARTFORD STD and LTD thru WAL-MART. Worked there 9 years. I was declared totally disabled by SSDI, after becoming disabled to work in 1999.Hartford is a total waste of money. I have numerous health problems and was humiliated by WALMART and HARTFORD.
John of Tyler TX (5/19/03):
On March 31st of 2003 I filled an STD claim for nerve damage in my left foot. My doctor who I have been seeing for close to 4 yrs. for this injury took me out of work because my employer Wal-Mart does not have a sit-down job for me. A little over 2 yrs. ago my doc. took me out and Hartford paid my STD claim, but now they have denied me saying that my claim doesn't require me to draw my benefit even though they have accepted my insurance payments since I was taken out of work by my doctor.
When I call now my case worker Mrs. Seesay says that the records she has received date back to my first claim and when I tell her that the claims are from 2003 she wants to state that my doctor is wrong. See I can't stand on my foot for more than a couple of hours and I take on average 30-35 pills daily for this injury. My doctor and I have discussed retirement and SSI because the outlook doesn't look good, I also have a Tybial nerve problem in left leg and have short-term memory loss from all the nerve and pain pills I take.
I cannot work. My car will probably get repoed, my insurance will be cancelled soon, which means no more doctor visits or medicine which keeps the throbbing down in my foot and sciatica in my leg. If you have ever had sciatic problems you know what I mean. We hope that my wife will bring in enough money? It's a crying shame that our lawmakers let these leeches of society live off the poor.
Steven of Cramerton NC (5/12/03):
My husband worked for a company called Worsley Transport for 2 years. The company was bought out by Mansfield Oil in Aug. 2002. My husband had had lots of problems with tonsilitis in the past. In Sept. 2002 he went to see his ear, nose and throat doctor on a different problem. My husband talked with the doctor about his throat and they decided to remove them so he wouldn't have any more problems.
In Sept. 2002 he had a tonsillectomy and the right tonsil removed easily but the left was more difficult. So doctor had both sent off. 3 days later we were told he had squamous cell carcinoma in the left tonsil. Now during the weeks he had his tonsillectomy he received his short-term disability from Hartford but they denied his long-term disability. Their reason for the denial was that his condition was pre-exsiting.
Cancer they said was pre-exsiting when no one knew he had the cancer til Sept. when he had the tonsillectomy. Now when his company was bought out, their Mansfield employees came in on full benefits which included long-term and short-term disability. No waiting periods, it started then. My husband and I have been dealing with these people since Sept. His last check was in Dec. 2002. He has had 40 radation treatment and 8 chemo treatment. My husband and I have almost lost everything due to these people. His company has appealed Hartford's decision. But we still haven't even received a letter or phone call from anyone at Hartford.
George of Bastian VA (10/21/02):
While working I paid for LTD disability insurance from Hartford Ins Company ... company plan since 96 when it was offered to our union. I had emergency heart surgery in Jan. of this year. which resulted in my present state of health -- Heart Valve Replacement, due to a faulty heart valve. I had no control over this problem.
Now permanently disabled and On S.S. disability, that was approved just the first of Oct. this year. I have filed claim forms with Hartford and have seen every stall tactic known to the insurance industry.
I have a heart problem, a condition that will not change. Hartford is failing to accept the fact that I will never be able to work again due to retrogressive problem. Doctor does not want me to work at any job, causing me to file for disability. Hartford has the paperwork and still no response for the insurance I have paid for, which is begenning to cause alarm for this misgiving and misleading tactics ... and I will not rest until it is cleared up.
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