The “starve you out” playbook
How insurers use delay, denial, and lowball offers to wear injured workers down — and the concrete free steps that beat each tactic.
Some insurers are betting you will give up before they pay. Here is the starve-you-out playbook for workers' compensation claims — and the counter to each move. For the short version on the main site, see expose their tactics.
Delay
They drag out approvals so you settle cheap out of desperation. Counter: document every date, push through your state ombudsman, and keep medical care on record. Use emergency money and food help so delay cannot empty the fridge.
Deny first
They reject valid claims knowing many people never appeal. Counter: the denial letter must give reasons — appeal on those grounds with medical proof. Follow appeal steps the day the letter arrives.
Lowball
A fast, small offer before you know full value. Counter: do not sign until you understand medical future costs and wage loss. Free legal aid can review major settlements.
Surveillance and paperwork traps
Investigators may film daily life. Paperwork deadlines bury people. Counter: follow medical limits honestly, keep one folder, and use paperwork help.
Claim stress shows up in research too. Read The Evidence for peer-reviewed sources. Start with your state resources the same week.
Common questions
What is the starve you out strategy?
Delaying or denying benefits so financial pressure forces a cheap settlement or a dropped claim.
How do I fight a delay?
Log every date, call the free state ombudsman, keep medical records, and do not miss appeal deadlines.