Facebook Photos Result in Termination of Disability Benefits
November 23, 2010 | Disability Claim Denials, Filing Disability ClaimsThe CBC has reported that Nathalie Blanchard, who was on long-term disability leave from her job at IBM due to depression, had her monthly benefits terminated after she posted photographs of herself on Facebook that depicted her vacationing, having fun at Chippendale’s and enjoying her birthday party. Manulife, her insurer, acknowledges that it uses Facebook as an investigatory tool for claims. Ms. Blanchard contends that her doctor advised her to engage in fun activities to combat depression. The story is a reminder to insureds to be aware of insurance company surveillance. A CNN video on the story can be viewed below.