If you are facing issues with your employee benefits, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) may protect your rights. ERISA is a federal law that sets rules for managing your retirement, health, and other employee benefit plans.
When disputes arise—like denied benefits, plan mismanagement, or breaches of trust—having guidance from our Boston employee benefits ERISA lawyers can help you navigate these challenges and safeguard your benefits.
Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard stands up for workers and holds corporations accountable every day. We understand how frustrating an ERISA benefits claim dispute can feel, especially when you aren’t getting fair treatment or clear answers. Call to learn how our Boston labor and employment lawyer can move your case forward.
Common Issues Arising in ERISA Benefits Dispute Cases
Our employee benefits ERISA attorneys in Boston handle disputes involving:
- Denied benefits: If you have received a denial notice about your retirement, health, or disability benefits, we can challenge the decision.
- Fiduciary duty violations: Benefits plan managers must act in your best interest. If they don’t, it can lead to a legal dispute.
- Plan mismanagement: A poorly managed benefits plan could result in financial losses or denied claims.
- Plan terms disagreements: Disputes can occur if your benefits plan contains unclear or unfair terms.
For a free legal consultation with a employee benefits erisa lawyer serving Boston, call (860) 999-9394
How ERISA Insurance and Work Benefits Differ From Other Plans
ERISA insurance and other job-provided benefits follow special federal rules that differ from non-work plans. Unlike individual plans you might buy on your own, ERISA-governed benefits have specific processes you must follow when disputes arise.
Here’s what makes them unique:
- ERISA benefit plans are job-based: These benefits, like health insurance, retirement savings, and disability coverage, are offered by your employer as part of your employment.
- Federal protections: ERISA sets strict rules that protect your rights. Under federal law, plan managers must act in your best interest and follow clear guidelines.
- Standardized rules: ERISA requires all employers to provide certain information about your benefits, such as plan details and how to apply for benefits.
- Legal recourse: If your benefits are denied or mismanaged, ERISA gives you the right to challenge those decisions and take legal action if necessary.
Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard’s ERISA attorneys in Boston, MA, can explain how the rules work in your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
Boston Employee Benefits ERISA Lawyer Near Me (860) 999-9394
Our Boston Employee Benefits ERISA Claims Lawyers Can Help
We know the federal rules that protect your benefits and rights. As we work to resolve your legal matter, we will review your plan’s details, explain your rights, and represent you if you must appeal a denial or take legal action.
Our firm also handles cases where plan administrators mismanage funds or violate their responsibilities. Our approach to your case will be based on your case’s needs. You’ll get regular updates and clear explanations of any changes or developments in your case.
What Happens After I Submit a Claim?
If you submit a written claim, your plan administrator typically has 45 to 90 days to respond. They will either approve or deny your claim or ask for more information.
If your claim is denied, you usually have the right to appeal within 180 days. This gives you time to gather additional evidence and make your case. During the appeal, you can provide additional evidence and arguments to support your case.
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How Do I Know if My ERISA Benefits Were Wrongfully Denied?
Your benefits could be wrongfully denied if any of the following apply:
- You receive a vague or unclear reason for the denial.
- The plan administrator ignores or overlooks important information.
- The denial doesn’t match what’s in your benefits plan.
- You notice inconsistent explanations or sudden changes in your plan’s rules.
What to Do If You Suspect Mismanagement of Your Benefits Plan
If any of these happen, you can consult our employee benefits attorney in Boston, MA, who can review your case and help you understand your options.
Here’s what you can do next:
- Gather documents: Collect any paperwork related to your benefits plan, including statements, emails, and letters. These can help your attorney to see what’s happening.
- Keep records of issues: Write down any problems you’ve noticed, like delays in payments, unclear communication, or sudden changes in your benefits.
- Request an explanation: You can ask your plan administrator for a written explanation of why your benefits are affected. This information can provide key details.
- Get legal advice: Our attorneys can guide you on how to protect your benefits, whether that involves negotiations or filing a lawsuit against your employer.
Mismanagement can seriously affect your financial security, so it’s important to take prompt action. Our experienced employee benefits lawyer in Boston, MA, will give you straightforward advice on how to start your case now.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
ERISA and Employer Retaliation
Under ERISA, your employer is prohibited from retaliating against you for exercising your rights, such as filing a benefits claim or reporting mismanagement of your plan.
Retaliation can include:
- Wrongful termination
- Demotion
- Reducing hours or pay
- Negative performance reviews
- Unjustified discipline
- Harassment or hostile treatment at work
If you experience any form of retaliation after asserting your rights under ERISA, our Boston workplace retaliation lawyer can hold your employer accountable.
Recoverable Damages in a Denied ERISA Benefits Claim Case
When your ERISA benefits are wrongfully denied, you could seek to recover compensation for:
- Unpaid benefits: These can include health insurance coverage, retirement funds, or disability payments.
- Interest on unpaid benefits: You might also receive interest on the benefits owed from the time they were denied until the time they are paid.
- Potential penalties: If the plan administrator failed to provide requested documents or acted in bad faith, they might face additional penalties.
Any damages you receive will be based on the losses in your case. Any compensation you receive intends to restore your benefits and hold plan administrators accountable for their actions. We will explain the damages that apply in your situation and fight to recover them.
Call Us: Our Boston Employee Benefits ERISA Lawyers Can Help
If you’re dealing with an ERISA issue, it’s important to know your rights and take action quickly. Our Boston employee benefits ERISA lawyers will provide the guidance and support you need to protect what’s rightfully yours.
Whether you’re dealing with denied claims, plan mismanagement, or confusing plan terms, Duddy, Goodwin & Pollard has the knowledge and experience to handle your case and protect what you have earned. Contact our office today for a free consultation.
Call or text (860) 999-9394 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form