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Appealing Your Mutual of Omaha Disability Denial
You paid into your Mutual of Omaha disability policy, hoping you’d never need it. Then life changed. An injury or illness interrupted your career, and now the benefits you expected have been denied.
If your Mutual of Omaha disability claim was denied, you’re not alone. Our team at OBD has worked with many people facing the same frustration: confusing letters, missing paperwork, and long waits with little to no updates. It’s exhausting, and it feels unfair. But there are steps you can take, and we are here to help.
What to Know About Mutual of Omaha Disability Insurance
Mutual of Omaha, founded in 1909, is a mutual insurance company owned by its policyholders. It offers both employer-provided and individual disability income insurance. Disability policies can include Short Term coverage (generally up to a year for temporary conditions) and Long Term coverage (for more serious or extended health issues, such as cancer or major medical events). Mutual of Omaha policies may also include customizable features, like cost-of-living adjustments or premium waivers during disability periods.
Mutual of Omaha Short Term Disability (STD)
Designed to cover you for a few weeks or months while you recover from a temporary condition.
Mutual of Omaha Long Term Disability (LTD)
Meant for more serious or extended health issues. Benefits may last months or years, depending on your policy.
Important Considerations
Unfortunately, many claimants don’t realize how strict the requirements can be until they have already experienced a denial.
How to File a Disability Claim With Mutual of Omaha
Filing a claim might seem straightforward initially, but getting approved can be challenging. Most policies require:
- Claim notification to Mutual of Omaha
- Claim forms completed by you and your treating physician
- Medical records supporting your diagnosis, symptoms, and functional limitations
- Ongoing communication with the insurer
Disability claim forms can be found at mutualofomaha.com/support/forms . Mistakes on claim forms can damage your claim, so you must double-check all documents before submitting your claim. Keeping copies of everything you submit and documenting every conversation is essential.
Understanding Long Term Disability Challenges
Some claimants report experiencing difficulties such as delays in processing, requests for additional documentation, or denials. Being aware of these potential challenges can help you be proactive in managing your claim.
What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied
You’ll receive a denial letter explaining why your claim was denied and outlining your rights to appeal. It’s a dense letter, often written in legal language. Don’t panic.
Your administrative appeal is crucial. Mutual of Omaha has 45 days to respond to your appeal, and this stage may be your best chance to secure benefits without litigation. If your appeal is denied, your next step is typically to file a lawsuit. The appeal process is where you can present a complete, well-supported case that addresses the insurer’s reasons for denial. In many cases, our disability attorneys can resolve claims at the appeal stage, helping clients avoid the need for litigation.
Because of strict deadlines, complex ERISA rules, and the advantage insurers hold under those laws, many claimants choose to work with a Long Term disability lawyer at this point.
Why Does Mutual of Omaha Deny Disability Claims?
Many clients come to us after getting denied, even when they had doctors’ notes, medical history, and strong workplace support. Here are some of the most common reasons we’ve encountered:
- Missing or inconsistent medical evidence
- “Not disabled enough” under their policy
- Delays in filing
- Surveillance and social media evidence
None of this means your condition isn’t valid. The system is just built to be hard to navigate without help. It’s important to read the denial letter carefully. It should outline why your claim was denied and provide instructions for how to appeal.
How OBD Helps With Mutual of Omaha Disability Appeals
You don’t have to face this process alone. At OBD, our disability attorneys know how to stand up to insurers like Mutual of Omaha and guide clients through complex appeals.
Your administrative appeal is often a critical opportunity to present a strong case and potentially avoid the cost and stress of litigation. We understand what Mutual of Omaha looks for in an appeal and how to build the strongest case on your behalf. Our lawyers know how to strengthen your case, address gaps identified in the insurer’s review, and advocate effectively on your behalf..
Our team:
- Reviews your policy and claim denial in detail
- Helps you gather additional medical or vocational evidence
- Builds a thorough appeal based on your unique situation
- Handles communication with Mutual of Omaha
- Prepares your case for litigation if necessary
Most importantly, we listen because we believe in building cases around real people, not just paperwork.
FAQs: Mutual of Omaha Disability Appeals
Is Mutual of Omaha known for denying disability claims?
Yes, denials can happen with any insurer. Disability claims are complex, and decisions often depend on the specific terms of the policy, the medical evidence provided, and how the insurer interprets the information. Denials can occur for a range of reasons, including incomplete documentation, missed deadlines, or differing views on whether the medical condition meets the policy’s definition of disability.
Can I file a lawsuit against Mutual of Omaha for a denied disability claim?
Yes, depending on your policy type. If your policy is part of an employer-sponsored plan governed by ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act), you must first go through the appeal process before you can file a lawsuit.
With legal representation, we will do everything we can to help you succeed during the appeal process and resolve your claim without needing litigation. In many cases, a well-prepared, thoroughly supported appeal can secure the benefits you deserve and avoid the need for a lawsuit.
What should I do if Mutual of Omaha requests an Independent Medical Exam (IME)?
Approach with caution. An Independent Medical Exam (IME) is a tool insurers like Mutual of Omaha use to evaluate your disability, but despite the name, these exams are not truly independent. The doctor is selected and paid by the insurance company, which can create bias in how your condition is assessed. We can often submit additional medical evidence or documentation to counteract unfair conclusions in an IME report. The key is to act early and have experienced legal guidance.
Will my Mutual of Omaha disability benefits be taxable?
It depends on who paid the premiums. Consult a tax professional.
How long does Mutual of Omaha take to decide on a new claim?
Typically 30–45 days, though delays are common.
Get Help Today
OBD can represent clients in disputes with insurance companies nationwide. Learn more about attorney Erik Berger, Esq. and how he can assist with your case.
If you’ve experienced a disability claim denial or need assistance with your Lincoln Financial disability appeal, contact Osterhout Berger Daley for a consultation. We are here to help you understand your options and advocate for your rights.
Contact our team for a free case evaluation. We’re ready to help.