In this episode of Secrets from the ERISA Vault, Eric Buchanan answers one of the first questions most people have after a long term disability denial: how much will an ERISA case actually cost.

Eric breaks down the common fee structures used in ERISA disability claims, what expenses typically come up during an appeal and during litigation, and how attorney fees can work when a case is successful. If you are trying to decide whether to hire help, this episode will give you a clear, practical way to think about cost, risk, and what to ask before you sign a fee agreement. 

In this episode of Secrets from the ERISA Vault, Eric Buchanan explains one of the most important concepts in ERISA litigation: the standard of review.

Eric breaks down what “standard of review” means, why it can completely change the outcome of a disability case, and how courts determine whether to apply de novo review or the more deferential arbitrary and capricious standard. He walks through the history of how these standards developed and discusses the key Supreme Court decisions that shaped modern ERISA law.

You’ll learn why discretionary clauses matter, how conflicts of interest are evaluated, and why understanding the standard of review is critical for both claimants and the attorneys who represent them. Whether you are handling ERISA claims yourself or referring them out, this episode explains why the standard of review can make or break a case.

In this episode of Secrets from the ERISA Vault, Eric Buchanan explains the three most common mistakes individuals make when trying to handle an ERISA disability claim without legal representation.

ERISA cases are often decided based solely on the administrative record developed during the appeal process. If critical evidence is missing at that stage, it may never be considered later in court. Eric discusses why understanding the policy’s definition of disability, submitting proper medical and vocational evidence, and avoiding procedural missteps are essential to protecting a claim.

If you are preparing an appeal or dealing with a denial of long term disability benefits, this episode outlines the key issues you need to understand before moving forward.

In this episode, Eric Buchanan explains how claimants can obtain the documents that govern their disability claim, including plan documents, summary plan descriptions, and internal claims manuals. He outlines what insurers are required to provide and why these documents can significantly affect the outcome of a case.

Listeners will learn how understanding the governing plan language and procedural rules can strengthen a disability appeal and help protect their benefits.

This episode focuses on practical steps that can make a meaningful difference in ERISA disability claims.

In this episode, Eric Buchanan examines empirical data showing how ERISA disability cases are decided in federal courts. He discusses statistical trends, reversal rates, and what the data reveals about the challenges claimants face when pursuing long term disability benefits under ERISA.

Listeners will gain insight into how courts apply the arbitrary and capricious standard of review and why outcomes often depend on the administrative record created before litigation begins.

This episode builds on the foundation of ERISA procedure and highlights why strategic preparation is critical in disability claims.

In this episode, Eric Buchanan explains why ERISA disability claims often feel unfair to claimants. He breaks down how ERISA changed the rules for long term disability cases, how courts review benefit denials, and why the legal standard often favors insurance companies over individuals.

Listeners will learn how administrative records control the outcome of most ERISA cases, why jury trials are not available, and how these structural limitations shape the way disability claims are decided.

This episode lays the foundation for understanding how ERISA works and why building the right record early is critical to protecting disability benefits.