Kaitlyn walks through key provisions commonly found in LTD and DI policies, including definitions of disability, limitations, exclusions, and how insurance companies interpret policy language when reviewing claims. She highlights why knowing your policy before and during a claim can help avoid surprises and strengthen your position if a denial occurs.

Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of how disability insurance policies work, why the fine print matters, and how policy language can directly impact eligibility for benefits and the overall outcome of a claim.

Eric also discusses why employer provided life insurance is often governed by ERISA, what that means for beneficiaries, and why it is so important to understand the policy terms before a problem arises. This episode gives listeners a clearer look at the fine print behind workplace life insurance and the issues that can surface when families need those benefits most.

Listeners will gain a better understanding of how the appeal process works, why it deserves careful attention, and why building the strongest possible record during an administrative appeal is often critical to the success of the case.

Eric breaks down the common fee structures used in ERISA disability claims, what expenses typically come up during an appeal and during litigation, and how attorney fees can work when a case is successful. If you are trying to decide whether to hire help, this episode will give you a clear, practical way to think about cost, risk, and what to ask before you sign a fee agreement. 

Eric breaks down what “standard of review” means, why it can completely change the outcome of a disability case, and how courts determine whether to apply de novo review or the more deferential arbitrary and capricious standard. He walks through the history of how these standards developed and discusses the key Supreme Court decisions that shaped modern ERISA law.

You’ll learn why discretionary clauses matter, how conflicts of interest are evaluated, and why understanding the standard of review is critical for both claimants and the attorneys who represent them. Whether you are handling ERISA claims yourself or referring them out, this episode explains why the standard of review can make or break a case.

ERISA cases are often decided based solely on the administrative record developed during the appeal process. If critical evidence is missing at that stage, it may never be considered later in court. Eric discusses why understanding the policy’s definition of disability, submitting proper medical and vocational evidence, and avoiding procedural missteps are essential to protecting a claim.

If you are preparing an appeal or dealing with a denial of long term disability benefits, this episode outlines the key issues you need to understand before moving forward.

Listeners will learn how understanding the governing plan language and procedural rules can strengthen a disability appeal and help protect their benefits.

This episode focuses on practical steps that can make a meaningful difference in ERISA disability claims.

Listeners will gain insight into how courts apply the arbitrary and capricious standard of review and why outcomes often depend on the administrative record created before litigation begins.

This episode builds on the foundation of ERISA procedure and highlights why strategic preparation is critical in disability claims.

Listeners will learn how administrative records control the outcome of most ERISA cases, why jury trials are not available, and how these structural limitations shape the way disability claims are decided.

This episode lays the foundation for understanding how ERISA works and why building the right record early is critical to protecting disability benefits.