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BU benefits rejected: what you should know now
A rejection is not the final word. The insurer’s decision can often be reviewed, especially if it is based on medical reports and interpretations.
Why insurers reject occupational disability (BU) benefits
- Degree of occupational disability: The insurer does not consider you to be at least 50 per cent occupationally disabled (or to the degree agreed in your policy terms).
- Job profile: The work you actually do is described too generally or incorrectly.
- Medical reports: A medical expert appointed by the insurer reaches a different conclusion from your treating doctors.
- Referral (Verweisung): The insurer refers you to a different occupation that you are supposedly still able to carry out.
- Cooperation: Documents or information are said to be missing.
Keep an eye on the limitation period (Verjährung). Since 2008 there has no longer been a fixed deadline for bringing a claim to court after a rejection. However, your claim becomes time-barred after three years (§§ 195, 199 BGB). While the insurer is assessing your claim, the limitation period is suspended (§ 15 VVG); once the claim is rejected, it continues to run. Our deadline calculator gives you an initial guide.
What you should do now
- Keep the rejection letter and the envelope with the postmark.
- Do not sign anything or make any further statements without taking advice first.
- Collect your policy, application, medical reports and previous correspondence.
- Have your case reviewed promptly.
How we proceed
We examine the rejection for formal and substantive errors, evaluate medical reports and documents and clarify whether an objection to the insurer or legal action makes sense. After the review, we tell you openly how good your chances are in your individual case. We cannot promise success.