You might feel that the appeal process conducted by Principal Financial Group was unfair and designed to prevent any chance of reversing your disability benefit denial. It’s natural to feel frustrated and discouraged, as though you’ve been labeled dishonest and questioning whether pursuing a Principal Financial lawsuit is even worth it. Unfortunately, this reaction is often exactly what insurance companies hope for.

The reality is that laws governing long-term disability claims tend to favor insurers, leading to a high rate of denied appeals being upheld. Principal may rely on your frustration and financial strain to pressure you into abandoning your claim or returning to work prematurely.

However, with a solid legal strategy, it’s possible to successfully challenge their decision and recover the disability benefits you’re entitled to.

When Can a Lawsuit Be Filed for Disability?

The timeline for filing a disability lawsuit against Principal Financial Group depends on whether your claim is governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). If your disability coverage was provided as part of an employee benefits plan, it is typically governed by ERISA.

Under ERISA, you cannot file a Principal Financial lawsuit against until you have received a denial of the appeal you submitted to them.

ERISA lawsuits are generally subject to a time limit, which is often either three years from the date of disability or the date of the final denial decision. If Principal Financial Group fails to issue a timely decision on your appeal, you may file a lawsuit without waiting for their decision. However, determining the exact timeline can be complex, as it is influenced by the policy terms and the governing laws of your state.

The statute of limitations, which sets these deadlines, varies by state and is frequently subject to change. Class members affected by Principal’s practices should be particularly mindful of these deadlines to ensure their claims are filed timely.

To avoid potential legal complications or missing critical deadlines, it is usually best to file a lawsuit as soon as reasonably possible. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help ensure your claim is filed within the applicable time frame.

While we take pride in challenging Principal for wrongful disability claim denials, our primary focus is always on achieving the best outcome for our clients. Our goal is to resolve your claim with Principal Financial Group as quickly and efficiently as possible.

After reviewing your disability denial letter, we can promptly assess whether you have a claim we can assist with. We look forward to discussing your options and helping you move forward with your case against Principal Financial Group.

What Are the Most Challenging Issues in a Principal Financial Lawsuit?

The most challenging aspect of any disability lawsuit is that your Principal disability benefit denial is likely governed by ERISA, a federal law that heavily favors insurance companies and applies to most employer-provided disability policies, impacting fiduciary duties.

ERISA was designed to allow insurance companies to provide affordable benefits to employees while limiting their legal expenses in the event of a disability claim denial. However, if your disability policy was not provided through your employer, you won’t need to contend with the limitations imposed by ERISA.

Five Reasons ERISA Disability Laws Favor Principal

• No jury trials are permitted.
• No punitive damages are allowed.
• Discovery is very limited.
• Judges often must apply a standard of review that defers to the insurance company’s decision that you are not disabled.
• Judges can remand the case back to Principal, giving them another opportunity to review and potentially deny the claim again.
• Fiduciaries are expected to seek lower fees, and failure to do so can be argued as a breach of fiduciary duty, making it challenging for plaintiffs to prove their case under ERISA laws.

How Much Does Our Firm Charge to Handle a Principal Financial Group Disability Lawsuit?

Preparing a lawsuit against Principal Financial Group requires significant legal expertise and time, which is why our firm is selective in the types and number of cases we accept. Every attorney at DarrasLaw is committed to delivering the highest level of legal work and personalized attention to your claim.

Unlike high-volume social security firms, we focus exclusively on handling disability insurance claims, including those against Principal Financial Group and Principal Securities, which has faced legal actions regarding allegations of churning and unsuitable investment recommendations.

Collecting Principal Financial Group Disability Benefits Is a Reality

We encourage you to contact any of our disability insurance attorneys to discuss potential strategies for resolving your denial of benefits from Principal Financial Group.

Unfortunately, many people abandon their fight after a claim denial because they don’t want to deal with the challenges posed by Principal. At DarrasLaw, we simplify the lawsuit process, requiring minimal time and effort from claimants, so they can focus on their health and well-being.

Our disability lawyers are available for a free phone consultation to discuss your Principal Financial Group disability claim denial and explore the best path forward for your case.

What Are the Top Reasons for Principal Disability Denials?

• Principal Financial Group denied the claim due to a lack of objective medical evidence.
• An in-house doctor at Principal rejected the disability claim.
• A third-party medical review, conducted without an examination, resulted in a denial of the claim.
• Despite documented functional limitations, Principal denied the claim, stating the claimant could perform a sedentary occupation.
• After a compulsory medical examination, a doctor hired by Principal concluded the claimant was not disabled.

Choose DarrasLaw to Help You With Your Principal Financial Lawsuit

If your disability claim has been denied by Principal Financial Group, it’s essential to understand that you are not alone—and you are not without options. We know how to counteract their strategies and build a strong case on your behalf. Whether your denial was based on a shift from “own occupation” to “any occupation,” a restrictive mental health provision, or any other reason, we can help you understand your rights and develop a strategy to fight back.