Apparently Lincoln Financial has taken up Unum’s SSDI scams. I received 5 calls today one right another, describing an offer of settlement, declined by claimants with resultant requests for SSDI records to calculate possible overpayment. It’s obvious that Lincoln’s SSDI efforts to allege overpayments and “nickel and dime” their clients is a top initiative.
I’ve written so many articles about SSDI, requests for files and recalculation repeats. Therefore, I’m going to just ask that you do a search from the Home Page and read what I’ve already written.
To simplify, ‘no” you don’t have to sign the SSDI file Authorization, and “no” your insurer cannot deny your claim for not giving something you aren’t required to give in the first place. Under HIPAA, claimants can designate their SSDI files as PHI, or “Private Health Information”. Just notify your claims handler IN WRITING ONLY that you wish to keep your SSDI file private, that they already have a copy of your approval letter, and while you will not release your SSDI file, you’re happy to answer any other questions. You should also ask for the claims handler to notify any third-party paper chaser to stop requesting the Authorization.
Just say “NO”.
