New York Life Disability Claims

At BurnettDriskill, Attorneys, we routinely assist claimants with short-term disability (“STD”) and long-term disability (“LTD”) claims against New York Life, ensuring you receive the benefits you're entitled to without unnecessary hurdles.


General Claims Process

New York Life typically requires submitting claim forms along with medical records, physician statements (“Attending Physician Statement”), and proof of income loss. The review involves an initial assessment, potential requests for additional documentation or independent medical exams (IMEs), an internal clinical review, and a decision timeline of 30 to 45 days once all forms and records are received, though delays are very common. 


If approved, payments replace a portion of your income – usually a percentage of what you were earning before you were forced to stop working due to your disability. If your claim is denied, you generally must submit a written appeal within 180 days, often requiring more evidence.


Unique Facts and Challenges

New York Life acquired Cigna's LTD business, leading to integrated but sometimes inconsistent processes. 

In addition, claimants frequently face denials due to alleged lack of "measurable proof" for symptoms like pain or fatigue, perceived insufficient medical evidence, or alleged noncompliance with treatment. 


Common issues include biased reviews by moonlighting physicians hired by the insurance company to render medical opinions about you even though they have never seen or examined you, repeated delays, and technical denials, exacerbating financial stress for those with pre-existing conditions or subjective impairments. 



We help by gathering comprehensive documentation to counter these tactics. Contact us for a free consultation to strengthen your New York Life claim or appeal.

Connect with our skilled legal team at BurnettDriskill, Attorneys today to schedule a free initial consultation.