Question
Why does Guardian want me to file for SSDI?
Why does Guardian want me to file for SSDI when I have a long-term individual policy with them in which I cannot perform my particular job and they stated that if awarded, SSDI would be above and beyond what they pay me? Can this come back to hurt me later if I pursue an appeal to SSDI?
Since the application process, Guardian has stated that they do not require but strongly suggest (during the application process) that I apply for SSDI. I initially did not want to do this; they have been persistent, and during the application process, two different Guardian employees told me that if I qualify for SSDI that this payment would be ON TOP of the money I receive from Guardian. If this is truly the case, why is Guardian so persistent in wanting me to apply? I did apply only because I initially felt I had to in order for them to approve my application, based upon their persistence. Since that time I have gone to an SSDI doctor, who stated she would be recommending I receive SSDI. (I am not able to work full time.) However, I just received a denial claim (I noticed my primary care physician did not respond to their requests for documentation, per their notes. This is probably due to my initially not wanting to apply but feeling like I had to.). Once I submit, per Guardian's request, a copy of the SSDI letter, what will they do next? Why do they want me to have filed for SSDI if they won't be pursuing any offset funds, or will they? I am concerned about their trying to get out of paying my policy. I did have a lawyer briefly review my policy and he stated that he did not see any wording in my policy which pertained to SSDI. Thank you.
Since the application process, Guardian has stated that they do not require but strongly suggest (during the application process) that I apply for SSDI. I initially did not want to do this; they have been persistent, and during the application process, two different Guardian employees told me that if I qualify for SSDI that this payment would be ON TOP of the money I receive from Guardian. If this is truly the case, why is Guardian so persistent in wanting me to apply? I did apply only because I initially felt I had to in order for them to approve my application, based upon their persistence. Since that time I have gone to an SSDI doctor, who stated she would be recommending I receive SSDI. (I am not able to work full time.) However, I just received a denial claim (I noticed my primary care physician did not respond to their requests for documentation, per their notes. This is probably due to my initially not wanting to apply but feeling like I had to.). Once I submit, per Guardian's request, a copy of the SSDI letter, what will they do next? Why do they want me to have filed for SSDI if they won't be pursuing any offset funds, or will they? I am concerned about their trying to get out of paying my policy. I did have a lawyer briefly review my policy and he stated that he did not see any wording in my policy which pertained to SSDI. Thank you.
Answer
Without reviewing your Policy I cannot be sure what their motivation might be. SSDI is typically found in the "Other Sources of Income" section of a Policy and would allow Guardian to offset an SSDI award and, if you did not apply, estimate an offset to be applied until you submit proof of application. If that is not the case with your Policy, one possibility might be that if your claim involves physical and mental health issues and SSDI was awarded based on mental health issues Guardian may seize on that to limit your claim to a 24-month mental health maximum benefit (if your Policy has this typical limitation provision). You can always send your Policy in and have one of our attorneys review it and set a call to discuss.
