Employer Electronically Signed My Name Without Approval

[Bran876]

My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: Alabama. I recently took some time off work. Medical suggested I compete paperwork for FMLA and company supplied Short Term Disability(no outside insurance co for STD). I received email with letter of approval/denial attached from medical today. They approved FMLA, but stated STD was denied. At the bottom it stated I electronically signed the document agreeing to decision. I had never seen document or talked to them about decision before receiving email. I’m assuming that is 100% illegal. I politely informed them I was concerned my signature was not authorized and I wanted to appeal decision immediately. What are my possible options. Thanks

[Taxing Matters]

My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: Alabama. I recently took some time off work. Medical suggested I compete paperwork for FMLA and company supplied Short Term Disability(no outside insurance co for STD). I received email with letter of approval/denial attached from medical today. They approved FMLA, but stated STD was denied. At the bottom it stated I electronically signed the document agreeing to decision.

Exactly what did it say (don't use any real names)?

I had never seen document or talked to them about decision before receiving email. I’m assuming that is 100% illegal. I politely informed them I was concerned my signature was not authorized and I wanted to appeal decision immediately. What are my possible options. Thanks

Generally speaking if this is a benefit provided and paid for entirely by a private employer then whether to grant the benefit or not is pretty much up to the employer other than it cannot make the decision based on illegal discrimination. If it has an internal appeals process you can of course pursue that. If you had to contribute to the plan then you may have a claim for breach of contract if the company failed to follow whatever the criteria is for approving the disability benefits. You may see a civil litigation attorney to see if you have anything to pursue if you can't get the company to approve benefits after whatever appeal you are given. But if this is entirely an employer provided benefit you may find that there isn't much recourse for you if you are denied.

[cbg]

I just want to point out that the average STD application is in three parts; one signed by the employer, one by the employee and one by the doctor. Did you, in fact, complete and sign the portion designated for you?