Danny,

Heather had disability insurance through her employer. They paid the short-term part (the first 6 months) with no problems. When it came time for the long-term part of it to start, the ins. co. said she had to apply for Social Security Disability benefits. If she didn't apply and the ins. co. determined she was eligible, they would stop paying. I always thought you carried private ins. so you wouldn't have to use government services. I'm still not sure how they justify that, but since Heather's employer paid the bulk of the premiums, we followed the rules and applied for the SS. Just doesn't make sense somehow.

Now, Heather's husband has applied for the mortgage insurance to be paid. I just can't believe the info the co. wants. They want to know all the doctors she has seen in the last 5 years. I guess they are looking for a reason to deny the claim, but 5 years?!? How can a visit to a family doc or ob-gyn 5 yrs ago have anything to do with a cancer diagnosis 13 months ago? I know there are a lot of people trying to scam ins. companies and they do have to have proper documentation, but that is a little ridiculous.

Larry,
Good for you for standing your ground. It is so easy to be cowed by these people. After all, most of us are taught to obey the rules and listen to authority. Unfortunately, these companies use that against us to get out of their legal obligations. It always comes down to the bottom line.....money. They don't seem to have any compunction as long as they can save a $.

Judy,
I am sorry I don't have any good advice for you. I did work as an ins. agent several years ago and I can tell you that lying on an application is not a wise thing to do. Your independent agent should never have given you that advice and I would definitely hold him accountable, but I just don't know if that will help you win your case or not. As far as the pre-existing condition goes, check the laws in your state. In Pa, ins. cos. are not allowed to use that anymore. They will try though, so consumers have to be on their toes and know the law. Otherwise they can get away with it anyway. Do you have a lawyer helping you? Good luck.

Rainbows & hugs,
Rosie