Question

Does UNUM ever deny extension of benefits due to pregnancy or on the other side would my pregnancy be considered a medical condition where they could potentially extend my benefits due to being pregnant?

Asked on April 15th 2014 by Jeliza
Hello, I have had LTD benefits with UNUM for two years–they will end next month. Now that the reason for having the benefits initially has improved, they are looking into possibly extending them due to my two disc herniations in my back accompanied by debilitating sciatica and becoming “stuck” for three to four days at a time every few weeks. The problem is, the past few weeks, my husband has been urging me to just let my benefits end since my UNUM rep called and stated he had looked at our wedding Knot page as well as my Facebook page stating that it’s seems as though I am fine. I promise you, although only 34 and otherwise healthy, I am not fine and am certain there’s nothing on either site depicting that I am. Both UNUM reps that I have had always tried to “trick” me into saying I was fine or even working on the side. Always added to my already terrible anxiety. My question is this. Yesterday we found out that we are going to be expecting a baby. This happened to be on the same day that I visited a neurosurgeon who recommended spinal fusion in two locations in my back. Does UNUM ever deny extension of benefits due to pregnancy or on the other side would my pregnancy be considered a medical condition where they could potentially extend my benefits due to being pregnant? Having UNUM has always been very stressful. I’d love nothing more than to not have to deal with them. However, I need them until after delivering a baby and having surgery. Then, I’d love to return to a work environment and feel normal again! I should mention that you know him forced me to use Genex to apply for Social Security Disability in order to keep my benefits. I was denied and I’m on my first appeal.

Answer

Answered on April 15th 2014 by Attorney Rachel Alters

Jeliza, Some policies require that the condition that you are disabled from as the claim transitions into the Any Occupation period must be the same sickness or injury that you initially became disabled from, so you will have to review your policy as to same. Unum can and will deny your benefits regardless of the pregnancy if it determines from the totality of the circumstances that you no longer meet the definition of disability under the policy. Please feel free to contact our office should you wish to discuss your claim further.