Full opinion text
MEMORANDUM & ORDER MATSUMOTO, District Judge. On April 30, 2010, plaintiff Stephen J. Topalian (“plaintiff’ or “Topalian”), a former employee of Alstate Insurance Company (“Allstate”), commenced this action against Hartford Life Insurance Company (“defendant” or “Hartford”), pursuant to § 502 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), 29 U.S.C. § 1132(a)(1)(B), challenging Hartford’s termination of his long term disability (“LTD”) benefits under the Group Long Term Disability Income Plan for Allstate Employees (the “Plan”). (See ECF No. 1, Complaint dated 4/27/10 (“Compl.”).) Plaintiff seeks reversal of Hartford’s decision to terminate his LTD benefits, unpaid LTD benefits retroactive to July 30, 2008, interest on those unpaid benefits, attorneys’ fees, costs, a declaration that he is totally disabled within the meaning of the Plan, and future payment of LTD benefits under the Plan. (See Compl. at 6.) Presently before the court are the parties’ fully-briefed cross-motions for summary judgment pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 56. (ECF No. 55, Hartford’s Motion for Summary Judgment dated 4/20/12 (“Hart. Mot.”); ECF No. 56, Hartford’s Memorandum in Support of Summary Judgment Motion (“Hart. Mem.”); ECF No. 66, Plaintiffs Memorandum in Opposition to Hart. Mot. (“Pl. Opp.”); ECF No., 63, Hartford’s Reply Memorandum (“Hart. Reply”); ECF No. 60, Hartford’s Rule 56.1 Statement (“Hart. 56.1 Stmt.”); ECF No. 66, Exh. 1, Plaintiffs 56.1 Counter-Statement (“Pl. 56.1 Resp.”); ECF No. 64, Exh. 1, Plaintiffs Redacted Motion for Summary Judgment dated 2/29/12 (“Pl. Mot.”); ECF No. 64, Exh. 2, Plaintiffs Memorandum in Support of Summary Judgment Motion (“Pl. Mem.”); ECF No. 61, Hartford’s Memorandum in Opposition to Pl. Mot. (“Hart. Opp.”); ECF No. 65, Plaintiffs Reply Memorandum (“Pl. Reply”); ECF No. 64, Exh. 17, Plaintiffs Rule 56.1 Statement (“Pl. 56.1 Stmt.”); ECF No. 62, Hartford’s 56.1 Counter-Statement (“Hart. 56.1 Resp.”).) For the reasons set forth below, Hartford’s motion for summary judgment is granted, and plaintiffs cross-motion for summary judgment is denied. BACKGROUND The following facts, taken from the parties’ Rule 56.1 statements and relevant portions of the expansive Administrative Record, are undisputed unless otherwise noted. The court has considered whether the parties have proffered admissible evidence in support of their positions and, in evaluating each party’s respective summary judgment motion, has viewed the facts in the light most favorable to the non-moving party. See Spiegel v. Schulmann, 604 F.3d 72, 77, 81 (2d Cir.2010). Plaintiff, a morbidly obese man in his fifties during the period relevant to this action, is a former Allstate employee who began receiving LTD benefits through the Plan in 2004. In 2008, Hartford terminated those LTD benefits, upon a finding that plaintiff was no longer disabled under the meaning of the Plan. After filing an unsuccessful administrative appeal of Hartford’s termination decision, plaintiff now argues that Hartford’s termination of his LTD benefits was improper, unfair, and unsupported by substantial evidence. Set forth below is a detailed summary of the Plan documents, plaintiffs personal background and employment history, and the extensive medical evidence and proceedings relevant to Hartford’s termination of plaintiffs LTD benefits. I. The Plan Documents Beginning in January 1, 2000, Hartford, a claims administrator, insured and administered the Plan through an insurance policy designated “GLT-673454.” (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 3; PI. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 3; AR 1, 15-16.) The parties do not dispute that plaintiff enrolled and participated in the Plan and received disability benefits under that Plan. (Hart 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 3; PI. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 3.) The parties disagree, however, regarding whether the documents included in the Administrative Record constitute “the Plan” that lies at the heart of this action. (Compare PI. 56.1 Stmt. ¶¶ 117-20, Pl. 56.1 Resp. ¶¶ 3-6, and Pl. Mem. at 28, with Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶¶ 3-8, Hart. Resp. ¶¶ 117-20, and Hart. Opp. at 8-9.) These documents include: (A) the “Group Benefit Plan: Allstate Insurance Company” (the “Group Benefit Plan Document”), (AR 12-39), and (B) the “Amendment to Group Policy 673454 on July 30, 2004” (the “2004 Policy Amendment” or the “Amendment”), (AR 1-11). A. The Group Benefit Plan Document/Booklet-Certificate The Group Benefit Plan Document contains a Certificate of Insurance, which explains that [t]he terms of the Group Insurance Policy which affect an employee’s insurance are contained in the following pages [of the Group Benefit Plan]. This Certificate of Insurance and the following pages will become your Booklet-certificate. The Booklet-certificate is part of the Group Insurance Policy. This Booklet-certificate replaces any other which Hartford Life may have issued to the Policyholder to give you under the Group Insurance Policy specified herein. (AR 15.) Additionally, the Group Benefit Plan Document includes a “Schedule of Insurance” document, which provides a “Plan Effective Date” of January 1, 2000, identifies the Group Insurance Policy as “GLT-673454,” and clarifies that the benefits described within the Group Benefit Plan are “those in effect as of January 1, 2003.” (AR 16.) The Schedule of Insurance also specifies that “[t]his plan of Disability Insurance provides you with loss of income protection if you become disabled from a covered accidental bodily injury, sickness or pregnancy.” (Id.) Moreover, in response to the question “Who interprets policy terms and conditions?”, the Group Benefit Plan Document clarifies that Hartford retains “full discretion and authority to determine eligibility for benefits and to construe and interpret all terms and provisions of the Group Insurance Policy.” (AR 27.) The Group Benefit Plan Document then provides the following definitions of relevant terms: Any Occupation means an occupation for which you are qualified by education, training or experience, and that has an earnings potential greater than an amount equal to the lesser of the product of your Indexed Pre-disability Earnings and the Benefits Percentage and the Maximum Monthly Benefit shown in the Schedule of Insurance. Disability or Disabled means that during the Elimination Period and for the next 24 months you are prevented by: 1. accidental bodily injury; 2. sickness; 3. Mental Illness; 4. Substance Abuse; or 5. pregnancy, from performing one or more of the Essential Duties of Your Occupation, and as a result your Current Monthly Earnings are no more than 80% of your Indexed Pre-disability Earnings. After that, you must be so prevented from performing one or more of the Essential Duties of Any Occupation. Monthly Benefit means a monthly sum payable to you while you are Disabled, subject to the terms of the Group Insurance Policy. Physician means a person who is: 1. a doctor of medicine, osteopathy, psychology or other healing art recognized by us; 2. licensed to practice in the state or jurisdiction where care is being given; and 3. practicing within the scope of that license. Regular Care of a Physician means you are attended by a Physician, who is not related to you: 1. with medical training and clinical experience suitable to treat your disabling condition; and 2. whose treatment is: a) consistent with the diagnosis of the disabling condition; b) according to guidelines established by medical, research and rehabilitative organizations; and c) administrated as often as needed, to achieve the maximum medical improvement. (AR 28-31.) The Group Benefit Plan Document further provides that Hartford may terminate a claimant’s LTD benefits on any the following dates, among others: 1. the date you are no longer Disabled as defined; 2. the date you fail to furnish Proof of Loss, when requested by [Hartford]; 3. the date you are no longer under the Regular Care of a Physician, or refuse [Hartford’s] request that you submit to an examination by a Physician; 7. the date no further benefits are payable under any provision in this plan that limits benefit duration. (AR 20.) Further, the Group Benefit Plan Document contains an “ERISA Information” section, which states as follows: This employee welfare benefit (Plan) is subject to certain requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), as amended. ERISA requires that you receive a Statement of ERISA Rights, a description of Claim Procedures, and other specific information about the Plan. This document ... provides important information about the Plan. The benefits described in your booklet-certificate (Booklet) are provided under a group insurance policy (Policy) issued by ... Hartford ... and are subject to the Policy’s terms and conditions. The Policy is incorporated into, and forms a part of, the Plan. The Plan has designated and named the Insurance Company as the claims fiduciary for benefits provided under the Policy. The Plan has granted the Insurance Company full discretion and authority .to determine eligibility for benefits and to construe and interpret all terms and provisions of the Policy. A copy of the Plan is available for your review during normal working hours in the office of the Plan Administrator. (AR 33.) The Group Benefit Plan Document thereafter describes the procedures for filing claims for benefits and appealing denials of such claims. (AR 36-38.) B. The 2004 Policy Amendment Like the Group Benefit Plan Document, the 2004 Policy Amendment sets forth an effective date of January 1, 2003, identifies the Group Insurance Policy as “GLT-673454,” and clarifies that the Group Insurance Policy has an effective date of January 1, 2000. (AR 1.) The Amendment contains an “Incorporation Provision” which states that “[t]he Booklet-certificate(s), and the endorsement form(s) enclosed therein, attached to this Policy are hereby incorporated in, and made a part of, this policy” and thereafter references Booklet Form 673454(GLT)1 Rev. 6. (AR 3.) In addition, the Incorporation Provision notes that “[t]he terms found in ... Booklet-certificate [673454] will control: the benefit plan provisions; the eligibility and effective date of insurance rules; the termination of insurance rules; exclusions; and other general policy provisions pertaining to state insurance law requirements.” (AR 3.) Furthermore, the Amendment incorporates by reference the “Schedule of Insurance” set forth in Booklet-certificate 673454(GLT)1 Rev. 6, which is included in the Group Benefit Plan explained above. (AR 4.) According to the Amendment, this Schedule of Insurance “will control the: benefit amounts and maximum limits; eligibility and effective date rules; and other schedule amounts and limits,” all of “which apply to the employees of the Policyholder.” (AR 4.) Finally, the Amendment sets forth certain “Policy Provisions” that control the Plan. (AR 8-9.) Among those Policy Provisions is the statement that “the [entire] contract between the parties consists of: the policy; the application of the Policyholder, a copy of which is attached to and made a part of the policy when issued; and the applications, if any, of each insured person.” (AR 8.) The Amendment then explains that “Hartford ... will give the Policyholder an individual Booklet-certificate for each insured employee. The Booklet-certificate is part of the policy, and will explain the important features of the policy.” (AR 9.) II. Plaintiff’s Personal Background and Employment History Plaintiff was born on December 22, 1957, graduated from high school in 1975, and earned his Associates Degree from SUNY Farmingdale in 1977. (AR 154.) After his graduation from SUNY Farming-dale, plaintiff attended Vale Technical Institute for two years. (AR 936.) Thereafter, plaintiff worked as an insurance appraiser for various companies and as an account representative for a stock brokerage between 1979 and 1989. (AR 936.) On September 25, 1989, plaintiff began working as a Senior Auto Appraiser for CNA Personal Insurance, which was later acquired by Allstate. (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 1; PL 56.1 Resp. ¶ 1.) As a Senior Auto Appraiser, plaintiff negotiated and estimated vehicle insurance claims and “[s]et appointments, document[ed] files, [wrote] drafts, [and] arrive[d] at [an] agreed price [with a repair] shop when possible.” (AR 163.) In 2000, Plaintiff was promoted to the position of Reinspector for Encompass Insurance Company (“Encompass”), a division of Allstate. (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 2; Pl. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 2; AR 163.) In his capacity as Reinspector, plaintiff reviewed the work of staff appraisers and independent appraisers. (AR 163.) Two years later in 2002, plaintiff was promoted to Front Line Performance Leader Auto Field Manager (“Auto Field Manager”). (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 2; Pl. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 2; AR 163.) As Auto Field Manager, plaintiff supervised eight employees, oversaw “all claims referred to independent appraisers,” conducted performance reviews, tracked statistics, and developed goals for his staff members. (AR 163.) Plaintiff regularly worked between ten to twelve hours each day during his tenure as Auto Field Manager and drove an average of five hundred miles per week. (AR 1802-03.) III. Plaintiff’s 2004 Claim for STD Benefits Plaintiff stopped working as an Auto Field Manager on January 30, 2004. (See AR 1965-66.) On February 9, 2004, Allstate employee Rebecca Abel and Hartford employee Sharon Ryan conducted an intake interview regarding plaintiffs claim for STD benefits. (See AR 1965.) Ms. Abel advised Hartford that plaintiffs date of disability was February 4, 2004. (AR 1966.) On February 13, 2004, Dr. Jeanne Green, plaintiffs family physician, sent Hartford an Attending Physician’s Statement (“APS”), along with plaintiffs medical records. (See AR 838-57.) The APS indicated that plaintiffs “primary diagnosis” was hypoxia, congestive heart failure, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea. (AR 839.) The APS further identified plaintiffs “secondary diagnosis” as “super morbid obesity” and noted subjective symptoms of shortness of breath and dyspnea on exertion. (Id.) Moreover, according to the APS, plaintiff was hospitalized for these conditions between February 5, 2004 and February 9, 2004. (Id.) During his hospitalization, he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. (AR 923.) Among the additional medical records sent to Hartford by Dr. Green were a dual isotope adenosine study dated June 9, 2003 and an echocardiogram report dated February 5, 2004. (AR 844, 852-55.) The June 9, 2003 dual isotope adenosine study stated that “[t]here is no evidence of ischemia nor infarct but the patient appears to have a dilated left ventricle with a reduced ejection fraction of 43% but there are technical limitations due to his body size.” (AR 855.) Moreover, the February 5, 2004 echocardiogram report returned negative, with no thrombi or pericardial effusions noted or ventricular irregularities noted. (See AR 844.) Dr. Green contacted Hartford on numerous occasions throughout March and April 2004 to provide additional information regarding plaintiffs medical conditions. For example, on March 17, 2004, Dr. Green informed a Hartford claims examiner that plaintiffs “blood sugar, weight, [and] hypertension” were disabling and prevented plaintiff from working. (AR 1962.) On April 5, 2004, Dr. Green sent Hartford a fax explaining that plaintiff “should remain out of work ... at least another month.” (AR 831,1962.) On May 6, 2004, Ms. Abel provided Hartford with a description of the physical requirements of plaintiffs Auto Field Manager position. (AR 156-57.) In particular, Ms. Abel described the Auto Field Manager position as requiring eight hours of sitting and/or two hours of standing, one hour of walking, five hours of driving, frequent bending, and occasional lifting of up to ten pounds. (AR 156.) On or around June 29, 2004, Dr. Green faxed Hartford additional medical records dated March 29, 2004 through June 25, 2004. (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶30; PI. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 30; AR 816-27.) One of those records, a sleep study dated March 29, 2004, confirmed plaintiffs diagnosis with obstructive sleep apnea “associated with a moderate degree of oxygen desaturation during sleep,” which improved with use of a continuous positive airway pressure (“CPAP”) machine. (AR 826.) Based on the foregoing medical conditions, Hartford extended plaintiffs STD benefits until August 3, 2004. (AR 1951.) IV. Plaintiff’s 2004 Claim for LTD Benefits A. Initial Submission of LTD Benefits Claim On May 11, 2004, Hartford provided plaintiff with the necessary forms to submit a claim for LTD benefits. (Hart. 56.1 Stmt. ¶ 33; PI. 56.1 Resp. ¶ 33.) On July 9, 2004, plaintiff faxed Hartford his LTD benefits application, which included an Employee’s Statement, a Claimant Questionnaire, a list of treating physicians, and an APS. (AR 782-97.) In his Employee’s Statement, plaintiff confirmed that he completed two years of college at Vale Technical Institute, where he studied auto damage estimating. (AR 783.) Moreover, in his Claimant Questionnaire, plaintiff described his medical conditions as “[sjpiking blood pressure, dizzy, lightheaded, problemas] w[ith] ... shortness of breath simply from walking,” retaining fluids in his lower extremities, and waking up in the middle of the night to catch his breath. (AR 787.) Despite these conditions, plaintiff indicated in his Claimant Questionnaire that he was able to continue some of his physical activities, such as fishing on one occasion as well as supervising his sons’ yard work. (AR 787.) In his list of treating physicians, plaintiff named the following medical doctors: Dr. Green, Dr. Rocca D. Grella, Dr. Yanpino Yu, Dr. Richard S. Litman, Dr. Scott R. Capustin, Dr. Gerald J. Furst, Dr. Lisa Schirripa, Dr. Vithiananthan, Dr. Chawla, and Dr. Gary Zito. {See AR 788-89.) Finally, in her APS, Dr. Green reported primary diagnoses of congestive heart failure, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea and secondary diagnoses of morbid obesity. (AR 796.) Dr. Green then reviewed plaintiffs functional capabilities and indicated that, despite his medical conditions, plaintiffs ability to stand was minimally affected; his walking abilities progressed to approximately one hundred yards without stopping; he could sit for approximately thirty minutes “without changing positions or getting up”; he could lift up to ten pounds “occasionally”; but was unable to push, pull, reach[]/ work[] overhead.” (AR 797.) Dr. Green additionally stated that plaintiff could drive for approximately ten miles without stopping and taking a break and that his ability to use his keyboard was “minimally affected.” (AR 797.) In light of these findings, Dr. Green concluded that “at the current rate of improvement,” she “antieipate[d] an additional [three] months of incapacity.” (AR 797.) On July 28, 2004, Dr. Green sent a letter to Hartford in further support of plaintiffs LTD benefits claim. (AR 779-80.) In that letter, Dr. Green explained that “[a]t this time [plaintiff] remains unable to return to work due to dizziness and overwhelming fatigue secondary to which he falls asleep constantly.” (AR 779.) Dr. Green informed Hartford that plaintiff was considering bariatric surgery, was being treated by a pulmonologist for his sleep apnea, consulted a nephrologist regarding his labile hypertension, and pursued treatment from a neurologist for episodic vertigo. (AR 779-80.) Dr. Green advised that, based on her diagnoses, plaintiff “remains fully disabled and unable to return to work in any capacity at this time” and stated that she “anticipated at least another two months before [plaintiff] could consider returning” to work. (AR 780.) B. Hartford’s Initial Approval of LTD Benefits Claim On September 10, 2004, Hartford informed plaintiff by telephone that his LTD benefits claim was approved. (AR 1940.) During that telephone call, plaintiff informed Hartford that he would promptly contact the Social Security Administration (“SSA”) to file an application for benefits. (Id.) By letter dated September 14, 2004, Hartford informed plaintiff that his LTD benefits were approved effective June 24, 2004 and that he was awarded a “net monthly benefit” of $2,850. (AR 767.) Two weeks later, on September 24, 2004, Allstate notified Hartford that plaintiff was entitled to a higher net monthly benefit based on an annual salary of $69,312. (AR 765.) In response, Hartford adjusted plaintiffs net monthly benefit to $2,900. (AR 1937.) Y. Hartford’s Extension of Plaintiff’s LTD Benefits On April 21, 2005, Noelle C. Anderson, a Hartford claims examiner, contacted plaintiff by phone for a “milestone call.” (AR 1936.) During that call, plaintiff reported kidney stones, swelling in his legs, memory problems, depression, and periodic dizziness. (Id.) That same day, Hartford advised plaintiff that it required updated information regarding his LTD benefits claim and requested a Claimant Questionnaire and APS by May 31, 2005. (AR 759.) Approximately one month later, on May 24, 2005, Dr. Green submitted an updated APS, in which she reported a primary diagnosis of “super morbid obesity” and secondary diagnoses of hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, a history of congestive heart failure, and transient ischemic attacks. (AR 714.) Dr. Green enclosed imaging studies and lab reports in support of these diagnoses. (Id.) Dr. Green also listed plaintiffs subjective symptoms of “dyspnea, fatigue, minimal] endurance, episodic vertigo, and amnesia.” (Id.) Moreover, Dr. Green advised that plaintiff recovered from his congestive heart failure (with “no recurrent episodes”), noted slight improvement in his hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, and stated that plaintiffs ischemic attacks occurred more frequently. (Id.) As to plaintiffs functional limitations, Dr. Green indicated that plaintiff suffered pain in his hips, knees, and ankles after standing for more than fifteen minutes. (AR 715.) Dr. Green further observed that plaintiffs walking ability was limited by dyspnea and pain and that plaintiff “must change position” every thirty minutes. (Id.) Dr. Green’s APS further stated that plaintiff had a limited ability to work or reach overhead, to drive for longer than ten minutes, and to lift, carry, push, or pull objects. (Id.) Dr. Green observed that plaintiffs typing ability was limited only by his ability to sit. (Id.) Finally, Dr. Green expressed her opinion that she expected plaintiffs “period of incapacity to be indefinite,” but that plaintiff was pursuing “bariatric surgery options.” (Id.) On or around May 25, 2005, plaintiff submitted his updated Claimant Questionnaire describing his disabling medical conditions. (AR 719-25.) Specifically, plaintiff listed the following medical conditions: When blood pressure spikes, I get dizzy/lightheaded. Occasionally, my blood pressure gets so high that I can hear it usually in my right ear. When this occurs, I have a problem with my equilibrium. Shortness of breath from walking or climbing stairs. Still waking up at night needing to sit up to catchy my breath. Moderate to severe swelling below knees. (AR 719.) Plaintiff additionally listed his height, 6 feet, and weight, 395 pounds. (AR 719.) Plaintiff further reported that he frequently “visits [the] bathroom due to [his] medications” and must lie down two to five times a day to reduce swelling in his legs. (Id.) Plaintiff explained that he was able to bathe, dress himself, go to the toilet, transfer from his bed to ■ a chair, control his bladder, feed himself, and maintain his personal hygiene independently. (Id.) Plaintiff noted, however, that he takes “much longer to bathe, use [the] toilet and dress ... than [he] did in the past” and that bending and transferring from his bed to a chair makes him “dizzy.” (Id.) Plaintiff again listed Dr. Green as his primary care physician, and also named his two neurologists, Dr. Michael O. Sauter and Dr. Yu, his urologist, Dr. Zito, and his podiatrist, Dr. Schirripa. (AR 720.) Plaintiff also stated that, within eighteen months of completing his Claimant Questionnaire, he visited Dr. Grella, Dr. Lit-man, Dr. Capustin, ophthalmologist Dr. Vincent Basilice, and bariatric specialist Dr. Arif Ahmad. (AR 721.) Upon evaluation of his medical records, Hartford approved plaintiffs continuing claim for LTD benefits on June 10, 2005. (AR 1933-34.) VI. Hartford’s 2006 Approval of Plaintiff’s LTD Claim under “Any Occupation” Standard By letter dated January 20, 2006, Hartford notified plaintiff that it had commenced an investigation to determine whether he was eligible under the Plan’s new “Any Occupation” standard, which was scheduled to take effect on June 24, 2006. (AR 711-12.) Hartford therefore requested a “Work and Education History Form,” an updated APS, and a Physical Capacities Evaluation Form (“PCE”). (AR 712.) On March 9, 2006, Hartford received the requested forms from plaintiff. A. Dr. Kevin Schiller’s 2006 APS and PCE In the updated APS, Dr. Kevin Schiller, plaintiffs new primary care physician, reported primary diagnoses of coronary artery disease and hypertension and secondary diagnoses of congestive heart failure and sleep apnea. (AR 702.) Next to the line for plaintiffs “Subjective symptoms,” Dr. Schiller wrote “[shortness of breath] and chronic pain.” (Id.) Dr. Schiller recorded plaintiffs weight, 395 pounds, and height, 6 feet. (Id.) Dr. Schiller further noted that plaintiff experienced difficulty standing, walking, reaching/working overhead, pushing, and pulling. (AR 703.) Dr. Schiller described plaintiffs ability to sit, drive, and use the keyboard as “fair.” (Id.) Finally, the APS states that plaintiff received treatment from neurologist Dr. Sauter, nephrologist Dr. Boglia, and urologist Dr. Zito. (AR 702.) In the PCE, Dr. Schiller set forth plaintiffs general workplace capabilities as follows: (1) plaintiff could sit for one hour at a time for a total of two hours per day; (2) plaintiff could stand for half an hour at a time for a total of one hour per day; and (3) plaintiff could walk for fifteen minutes at a time for a total of one hour per day. (AR 704.) Dr. Schiller advised that plaintiff could occasionally climb, stoop, kneel, and crouch, as well as lift, carry, push, or pull up to ten pounds. (Id.) Dr. Schiller further indicated that plaintiff could frequently drive, reach at or below waist level, and handle/finger/feel objects with both hands. (AR 704-05.) Finally, Dr. Schiller observed that plaintiff could never balance. (AR 704.) B. Hartford’s March 2006 Request for Additional Medical Records Upon receipt of Dr. Schiller’s APS and PCE, Hartford continued its investigation of plaintiffs LTD benefits claim. To that end, on March 9, 2006, Hartford requested, and ultimately received, updated medical records from plaintiffs treating physicians: Dr. Zito, Dr. Sauter, Dr. Ahmad, Dr. Yu, Dr. Schirripa, Dr. Grella, and Dr. Schiller. (AR 520-46, 563-67, 614-15, 637-48, 657-65, 1913, 1917, 1922, 1926, 1928.) In response to Hartford’s March 2006 request for medical records, Dr. Zito, plaintiffs urologist, submitted July 2004 CT scan reports of plaintiffs abdomen and pelvis. (AR 659-60.) The CT scan report of plaintiffs abdomen stated that plaintiff had “very minimal right hydronephrosis,” “minimal right mid peri-uteral stranding,” and a “questionable tiny right mid ureteral calculi.” (AR 659.) The CT scan report of plaintiffs pelvis indicated “minimal right mid peri-ureteral stranding with associated tiny calculi with tiny right mid ureteral calculi” with no evidence of hydroureter, definite bladder calculus, bowel obstruction, free fluid, or adenopathy. (AR 660.) On March 10, 2006, Dr. Sauter, plaintiffs neurologist, promptly responded to Hartford’s request for medical records. (AR 599-613.) Dr. Sauter submitted office notes dated August 10, 2005 through March 2, 2006. (AR 600-02.) In those office notes, Dr. Sauter explained that plaintiff had a history of epilepsy as a child. (AR 601.) Dr. Sauter also provided the results of plaintiffs Doppler neck carotid procedure on March 21, 2006. (AR 603.) The procedure revealed “no evidence of hemodynamically significant stenosis,” particularly “in the proximal left internal carotid artery.” (Id.) Furthermore, Dr. Sauter submitted an August 11, 2005 MRI report of plaintiffs brain. (AR 604.) The 2005 MRI report indicated plaintiffs history of right-sided weakness and memory loss but noted that plaintiff was “stable.” (Id.) Finally, Dr. Sauter submitted an August 11, 2005 EEG report, which reported an abnormal EEG “due to occasional sharp wave activity” and explained that “[hjyperventilation and photostimulation are unremarkable.” (AR 606.) Dr. Ahmad, a physician at the Long Island Bariatric Center, similarly responded to Hartford’s records request. (AR 637-648, 1925.) In a September 21, 2005 office note, Dr. Ahmad stated that plaintiff steadily gained weight since 1992, when he was diagnosed with Lyme disease and was unable to exercise as a result. (AR 639.) Dr. Ahmad’s office note specified that plaintiff suffered from hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, depression, joint problems, and osteoarthritis, among other medical infirmities. (Id.) In addition, Dr. Ahmad also submitted an “Initial Nutrition Consultation,” dated October 5, 2004, indicating that plaintiff sought weight reduction surgery. (AR 638.) Dr. Ahmad’s Initial Nutrition Consultation further noted that plaintiffs exercise regime consisted of walking five times a week for approximately twenty minutes. (Id.) In response to Hartford’s request, Dr. Yu, plaintiffs nephrologist, mailed the handwritten progress of another treating nephrologist, Dr. Boglia. (AR 623-626, 1923.) Dr. Boglia’s progress notes, dated August 2005 through March 2006, discuss certain urinary and bladder issues which plaintiff did not claim were disabling conditions at that time. (Id.) Dr. Schirripa, plaintiffs podiatrist, also answered Hartford’s request for records and submitted office visit notes dated January 12, 2005 through April 3, 2006. (AR 1922; see also AR 563-67.) In those office visit notes, Dr. Schirripa described the painful nails and calluses on plaintiffs feet. (AR 563-67,1922.) On June 1, 2006, Hartford also received medical records from the offices of Dr. Grella, plaintiffs cardiologist. (AR 520-46, 1916.) Among those records is a June 9, 2003 letter from Dr. Mitchell Saunders, Dr. Grella’s medical partner, to Dr. Green. (AR 527.) In that letter, Dr. Saunders described the results of plaintiffs echocardiogram and stated that “[he] advised [plaintiff] that most likely his chest and arm pains are related to cervical disk disease and not ischemia [because] he does not get them with exertion.” (Id.) Additionally, Dr. Grella’s office submitted a June 22, 2004 adenosine study which found “[n]o clear evidence of ischemia or infarction,” anterior thinning, “[mjildly delayed inferoapical systolic motion,” increased “left ventricular end diastolic and end systolic volumes,” and a “[l]eft ventricular ejection fraction of 46%.” (AR 534.) Notably, the June 2004 adenosine study reported that plaintiff experienced “no significant change in left ventricular function, left ventricular volumes, or myocardial perfusion” since his last test in June 2003. (Id.) Dr. Grella’s office submitted two letters from Dr. Grella to plaintiffs primary care physicians. In his May 25, 2005 letter to Dr. Green, Dr. Grella opined that “[s]ince his hospitalization in February, the patient has been out of work just due to ‘not feeling well’ but overall a fairly nondescript situation.” (AR 525.) Dr. Grella noted, however, that [r]eview of [plaintiffs] systems is notable for sweats, fatigue, nosebleed on higher dose aspirin ..., shortness of breath, snoring, ... abdominal pains, history of urinary tract infections and kidney stones with blood in his urine, headaches, loss of balance, history of diabetes, depression and easy bruising. (Id.) Dr. Grella noted that plaintiffs “[p]hysical examination reveals a well-developed, morbidly obese man in no acute distress.” (AR 526.) The second letter, dated December 2, 2005, from Dr. Grella to Dr. Schiller, sets forth Dr. Grella’s “[f]inal impression” of plaintiff as a “hypertensive, diabetic with multiple medical problems, who has continued complaints of ... atypical chest pain, exertional dyspnea which were of unclear origin.” (AR 524.) In the December 2, 2005 letter, Dr. Grella expressed his impression that much of plaintiffs “exertional dyspnea including the pulmonary hypertension ... [is] likely related, to his ... morbid obesity.” (Id.) "Dr. Grella therefore recommended additional cardiac testing. (Id.) Dr. Grella reported that plaintiffs “blood pressure appears to be adequately controlled at the current time” and recommended “no change of [plaintiffs] medications.” (Id.) Finally, Hartford received documents from Dr. Schiller on June 23, 2006. (AR 614-15, 618, 1913.) Dr. Schiller submitted a March 7, 2006 letter addressed to him from nephrologist Dr. Boglia. (AR 614-15.) In that March 7th letter, Dr. Boglia informed Dr. Schiller that plaintiff complained of “occasional urinary frequency and incomplete bladder emptying.” (AR 614.) With respect to plaintiffs hypertension, Dr. Boglia reported that plaintiffs blood pressure was significantly improved from our last visit. He will also undergo a 24-hour blood pressure monitor. The patient’s blood pressure will not become normalized at his current weight. If he is able to lose significant amount of weight, his blood pressure will dramatically improve. (Id.) With respect to plaintiffs diabetes, Dr. Boglia reported that plaintiffs “Hemoglobin A1C was well controlled back in December of 2005.” (AR 615.) Finally, regarding plaintiffs obesity, Dr. Boglia indicated that plaintiff “states [ ]he is attempting diet and exercise” and “is still considering going for bariatric surgery.” (Id.) C. 2006 Social Security Administration (“SSA”) Disability Finding On March 28, 2006, Ted S. Shapiro, Esq., plaintiffs counsel during his SSA proceedings, transmitted to Hartford SSA’s fully favorable Notice of Decision dated March 22, 2006. (See AR 627-35.) In his proceedings before the SSA, the administrative law judge (“ALJ”) found that plaintiff lacked the residual functional capacity (“RFC”) to perform sedentary work and that plaintiff was unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity. (Id.) Specifically, the ALJ held that [t]he medical evidence reveals [that plaintiff] ... is severely impaired by morbid obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, nephrolithiasis, obstructive sleep apnea, and congestive heart failure associated with left ventricular dysfunction. At my request Dr. Osvaldo Fulco ... reviewed the medical evidence and answered interrogatories I posed. Writing on February 28, 2006, Dr. Fulco estimated the claimant — an individual with severe shortness of breath and edema and brawny discoloration of both lower extremities with evidence, by a nuclear scan performed on June 9, 2003, of a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction of forty-three percent — could sit only two hours, stand/walk less than two hours, and lifi/carry no more than ten pounds during an eight-hour workday. Unable to climb, push and pull, the [plaintiff], in the opinion of the medical expert, must avoid hazardous situations such as unprotected heights and dangerous moving machinery. (AR 631-32.) The ALJ therefore concluded that plaintiff lacked the RFC “to perform even sedentary work because of persistent and severe shortness of breath compounded by swelling of both lower extremities.” (AR 632.) According to the ALJ, these conditions resulted in “an ability to lifi/carry no more than ten pounds, to sit only two hours, and to stand/walk less than two hours during an eight-hour workday.” (Id.) Finally, the ALJ explained that plaintiffs “exertional and nonexertional limitations preclude him from performing his past relevant work and significantly erode his remaining occupational base for sedentary work to the extent that he is unable to engage in any alternative substantial gainful activity existing in significant numbers in the national economy.” (AR 633.) By fax dated April 20, 2006, plaintiff transmitted a copy of the SSA’s Notice of Award to Hartford. (AR 585.) The SSA’s Notice of Award stated that the SSA found plaintiff “disabled under [SSA] rules on February 5, 2004.” (AR 586.) Upon notification of plaintiffs SSA Award, Hartford calculated past due benefits, subtracted the amount owed to plaintiffs Social Security attorney, and offset the amount of LTD benefits owed by the amount awarded by the SSA. (See AR 943.) D. Plaintiffs July 2006 Claimant Questionnaire By letter dated June 29, 2006, Hartford informed plaintiff that it was continuing its investigation to determine whether plaintiff was disabled under the “Any Occupation” standard set forth in the Plan. (AR 446-47.) Hartford further clarified that “[a]dditional benefits paid beyond June 24, 2006 should not be construed as an admission of continued liability.” (AR 447.) Accordingly, on July 19, 2006, Hartford requested an updated Claimant Questionnaire from plaintiff. (AR 445.) Hartford received plaintiffs updated Claimant Questionnaire on August 10, 2006. (AR 440-43, 1912.) In that July 2006 Claimant Questionnaire, plaintiff described his medical conditions as follows: “Blood pressure has been more stable overall, but is still spiking daily. When [blood pressure] spikes, I get light headed/dizzy. Sometimes my [blood pressure] gets so high that I can hear it in my right ear which in turn gives me problems [with] equilibrium. Shortness of breath from walking or using stairs.” (AR 440.) Plaintiff further reported moderate to severe swelling of his lower extremities and shortness of breath when laying down. (Id.) Nevertheless, the July 2006 Claimant Questionnaire indicates that plaintiffs daily activities included going for a walk, using the treadmill, and spending time with his family in the evenings. (Id.) Plaintiff further noted that he does light chores around the house, brings in empty trash pails, and went fishing once a year between 2004 and 2006. (Id.) E. Hartford’s Approval of Plaintiffs Continuing LTD Benefits Claim Upon review of plaintiffs July 2006 Claimant Questionnaire, Hartford Nurse Amanda P. Ferrill concluded that plaintiff was still disabled based on his pulmonary hypertension, left ventricular hypertrophy, and bilateral venous insufficiency/edema. (AR 1910-12.) Nurse Ferrill further opined that “without significant weight loss [plaintiffs] health will not improve” and therefore recommended a “follow up with medical on a yearly basis [to] note any significant weight changes.” (AR 1912.) Thereafter, on September 8, 2006, Hartford analyst Jamie L. Lindvall recommended that plaintiffs claim for continued LTD benefits be approved based on his medical conditions. (AR 1909.) In particular, Ms. Lindvall took note of plaintiffs left ventricular hypertrophy, bouts with chronic leg edema, and hypertension. (Id.) Although Ms. Lindvall acknowledged that plaintiff could occasionally climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and reach above and lift, carry, push, and pull up to tend pounds, she concluded that plaintiffs “[c]ondition [was] unlikely to improve” absent “significant weight loss.” (AR 1909.) By letter dated September 11, 2006, Hartford advised plaintiff that his claim for continuing LTD was approved under the “Any Occupation” standard. (AR 438, 1909-10.) Hartford’s September 11, 2006 letter clarified that payment of LTD benefits would continue “subject to terms and limitations of the Policy, as long as [plaintiff] meet[s] the policy definition and requirements.” (AR 438.) VII. Hartford’s 2007 Reevaluation of Plaintiff’s Disability On February 14, 2007, Hartford again requested plaintiff to complete an updated Claimant Questionnaire and APS in support of his continuing LTD benefits claim. (AR 425, 1908.) On March 27, 2007, Hartford’s Special Investigations Unit reviewed plaintiffs continuing LTD benefits claims but determined not to accept the claim for investigation. (AR 1907.) Hartford subsequently received plaintiffs 2007 Claimant Questionnaire on April 11, 2007. (AR 426-30.) In his 2007 Claimant Questionnaire, plaintiff described his medical conditions as tingling and numbness in his lower extremities and fingers; moderate to severe swelling of lower extremities; shortness of breath; back and neck pain; spiking blood pressure; and unstable equilibrium. (AR 426.) Plaintiff advised that he could do the following activities independently: bathe, dress, use the toilet, transfer from bed to chair, maintain his personal hygiene, and feed himself. (Id.) Plaintiff further advised that he occasionally performed light chores around the house and yard such as watering the plants and garden and bringing in empty garbage pails. (Id.) Finally, plaintiff stated that he was 425 pounds in October 2006 but had lost 29 pounds as of April 2007. (Id.) In April 2007, Hartford also received a portion of plaintiffs updated APS and Dr. Schiller’s office visit note, both of which were dated March 10, 2007. (AR 431-34.) The first page of the 2007 APS reported primary diagnoses of right leg pain, chest pain, and shortness of breath, and subjective symptoms of shortness of breath. (AR 431.) On April 11, 2007, Hartford analyst Molly Grossman approved plaintiffs continuing claim for LTD benefits, stating that “[ujnless [plaintiff] loses weight he will not be able to [return to work] at any occupation].” (AR 1906-07.) Ms. Grossman further noted plaintiffs tingling and numbness, shortness of breath, swelling, spiking in blood pressure, and back and neck pain. (AR 1906.) Ms. Grossman acknowledged that plaintiff reported a loss of 29 pounds since October 2006. (AR 1907.) Finally, Ms. Grossman summarized plaintiffs history of medical conditions, including but not limited to hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. (Id.) On August 13, 2007, plaintiffs file was assigned to Hartford Claim Specialist Debbie Staz. (AR 959.) On September 13, 2007, Ms. Staz and plaintiff spoke on the phone, during which plaintiff indicated that his “last hope” was gastric banding, or “stomach band,” surgery. (AR 961.) On October 17, 2007, Ms. Staz noted that plaintiff was scheduled to undergo gastric banding surgery on November 13, 2007. (AR 964.) On November 13, 2007, plaintiff underwent gastric banding surgery. (AR 1490.) VIII. Hartford’s 2008 Reevaluation of Plaintiff’s Disability A. January 2008 Work and Education History Form, Claimant Questionnaire, and APS On January 2008, Ms. Staz requested plaintiff to complete an updated Work Education History Form, Claimant Questionnaire, and APS in support of his continuing LTD benefits claim. (AR 407,1899.) Plaintiffs Work and Education History Form set forth plaintiffs employment history, educational background, work skills, and noted that he resigned from Allstate in “2005 after STD [and] LTD were exhausted.” (AR 155.) Moreover, in his 2008 Claimant Questionnaire, plaintiff explained his disabling conditions as follows: Moderate to severe swelling of lower extremities, as well as tingling [and] numbness. Tingling [and] numbness also affects my fingers but less often than my legs. Shortness of breath can occur when walking, laying down, going up or down stairs, etc. Blood pressure is normal more of the time, but still spikes (from once every couple of days to multiple times daily) [.] Sometimes I can hear a pulsing/beating in my right each which throws off my equilibrium. ... Back [and] neck pain due to all of the falling due to dizziness over the past several years. (AR 378.) Plaintiff indicated that his daily activities included “[s]ome household chores at a slow pace,” walking as tolerated, going to doctor’s appointments, using the bathroom, measuring blood pressure and blood sugar’, sorting through mail, and paying bills. (Id.) Moreover, plaintiff indicated that he could do the following activities independently: bathe, dress, use the toilet, transfer from his bed to a chair, control his bladder, maintain his personal hygiene, and feed himself; however, plaintiff noted that activities such as bathing, dressing, and using the toilet take much longer and that actions that require bending can make him dizzy. (Id.) Plaintiff indicated that, despite his medical conditions, he could carry out “[v]ery light yard maintenance [and] household chores intermittently.” (Id.) Plaintiff recorded his height as 6 feet and weight as 388 pounds. (Id.) In addition, Dr. Schiller’s 2008 APS reported plaintiffs primary diagnoses as morbid obesity, back pain, and status post-gastric band surgery, along with a secondary diagnosis of hypertension. (AR 389.) With respect to plaintiffs work environment capabilities, Dr. Schiller advised that plaintiff could sit for two hours at a time for a total of ten hours per day, stand for half an hour at a time for a total of one hour per day, and walk for one hour at a time for a total of one hour per day. (AR 390.) Dr. Schiller indicated that plaintiff could “occasionally” kneel, crouch, drive, reach overhead, and lift/carry up to 20 pounds with both hands. (Id.) In his APS, Dr. Schiller further opined that the expected duration of plaintiffs restrictions was “6 months.” (Id.) Dr. Schiller indicated that plaintiff could “participate in vocational rehabilitation services,” which included “worksite accommodations, identifying alternative work, and/or retaining assistance.” (Id.) Appended to Dr. Schiller’s 2008 APS was a January 10, 2008 office visit note. (AR 391-92.) In his January 2008 office visit note, Dr. Schiller observed that plaintiffs knee pain was “moderate” with “an aching quality” but noted plaintiffs comment that his “[r]ight knee pain [was] improving.” (AR 391.) Dr. Schiller further clarified that plaintiff was treated with “physical therapy and NSAIDS” and has responded well to that treatment. (Id.) B. Hartford’s February 2008 Request for Additional Medical Records In February 2008, Hartford requested updated medical records from plaintiffs treating physicians, including Dr. Schiller, Dr. Collin Brathwaite, and Dr. Grella. In response to this request, Dr. Schiller submitted numerous medical records including letters, radiology reports, and office visit notes. (See AR 261-365, 970, 1902.) For example, Dr. Schiller included a letter from Dr. Balchandani describing plaintiffs December 7, 2006 nuclear stress test, “which revealed normal perfusion with no fixed reversible defects identified.” (AR 348.) Additionally, Dr. Schiller provided a cardiac catherization report regarding a June 5, 2007 procedure to evaluate plaintiffs heart pressure, arteries, and ventricular function. (AR 343-45.) The cardiac catherization report demonstrated non-obstructive coronary artery disease with normal left ventricular function, moderate left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, mild to moderate pulmonary hypertension, normal renal arteries, and successful placement of vascular closure device. (AR 435.) Dr. Schiller also included a January 21, 2007 letter to him from Dr. Thomas P. Ribaudo, in which Dr. Ribaudo noted that plaintiff expressed no complaints of chest discomfort and an improvement in shortness of breath. (AR 340.) In his January 21st letter, Dr. Ribaudo noted plaintiffs admission to “some episodes of anxiety” and opined that such anxiety “could definitely be one of the contributing factors” to his shortness of breath. (AR 341.) In a January 24, 2007 office note, Dr. Schiller reported that plaintiff fell through basement stairs and cut his right lower leg but suffered no fracture. (AR 313.) According to a follow-up X-ray, plaintiff showed “no evidence of fracture, dislocation or destructive bone lesion” with no abnormalities in his joint spaces and soft tissue. (AR 322.) On February 10, 2007, plaintiff again visited Dr. Schiller for a follow-up examination of plaintiffs leg ulcer related to the basement fall, and Dr. Schiller noted that plaintiffs cellulitis was improving. (AR 307.) Moreover, an X-ray and MRI conducted on March 13, 2007 indicated “[n]o obvious fracture-dislocation” with “[i]njury to the posterior medial meniscal root ligament with partial tear and reactive bone marrow edema of the tibia.” (AR 320-21.) A March 19, 2007 office visit note indicates that plaintiff presentéd with complaints of knee pain, again related to plaintiffs basement fall. (AR 302.) On May 2, 2007, plaintiff again visited Dr. Schiller, seeking treatment for neck and lower back pain. (AR 297.) During that office visit, plaintiff noted that he had been receiving physical therapy for three weeks. (Id.) Dr. Schiller also provided Hartford with a May 23, 2007 letter from Dr. Grella, in which Dr. Grella advised that plaintiff denied chest pain and was “clinically stable” and “asymptomatic from a cardiac perspective,” despite plaintiffs chronic dyspnea on exertion, some diastolic dysfunction, and non-obstructive coronary artery disease. (AR 338-39.) • Finally, Dr. Schiller submitted various notes recording plaintiffs office visits between June 2007 and November 2007, during which plaintiff presented with leg, knee, and back pain. (See AR 264-66, 287-91.) Dr. Schiller’s November 28, 2007 office visit note indicates that plaintiff stated that his “[r]ight knee was improving,” despite moderate pain and “an aching quality.” (AR 264.) In addition, Dr. Brathwaite, plaintiffs gastric banding surgeon, provided Hartford with medical records related to plaintiffs November 13, 2007 gastric banding surgery and his post-surgical follow-up examinations. (AR 239-56, 1453-55.) During his December 2007 follow-up visit, plaintiff did not complain about his surgery, denied any signs or symptoms of infection in his surgical wounds, and reported walking thirty minutes a day. (AR 244.) In his medical progress notes, Dr. Brathwaite noted that plaintiff had a decrease in his appetite due to his divorce and death of his father. (AR 239, 971.) Dr. Brathwaite’s medical records also demonstrated a pre-surgery weight of 404 pounds and a post-surgery weight of 378 pounds as of February 2008. (AR 971.) Finally, Dr. Grella provided Hartford with updated medical records regarding plaintiffs cardiac health. (AR 180-95, 1890.) Included in those records is the first page of a November 7, 2007 letter from Dr. Grella to Dr. Brathwaite, wherein Dr. Grella explained his pre-surgery evaluation of plaintiff on November 5, 2007. (AR 181.) Dr. Grella found that plaintiff was found to have nonobstructive coronary artery disease with only luminal irregularities and a preserved ejection fraction of 55%. The patient additionally does not have any significant valvular heart disease by echocardiography. The only finding was diastolic dysfunction secondary to hypertension, for which he is on medical therapy. He continues to be asymptomatic in terms of any cardiac issues in terms of chest discomfort. He does have dyspnea on exertion likely secondary to his morbid obesity, but otherwise has had no lightheadedness, dizziness, palpitations, or syncopal events. He does have chronic leg edema, which is known to be related to chronic venous insufficiency. (Id.) Dr. Grella also provided a letter dated May 23, 2007, in which he approved plaintiff for surgery and expressed his opinion that “from a cardiac perspective [plaintiff] is clinically stable, and overall, would pose an acceptable and low cardiac risk for surgery.” (AR 184-85.) C. Ms. Staz’s March 2008 Telephone Conversation with Plaintiff On March 24, 2008, Ms. Staz called plaintiff to discuss his medical condition. (AR 973.) During that phone conversation, plaintiff expressed that his “back and knee pain [was] really causing him a lot of pain.” (AR 972-73.) Plaintiff reported that he was prescribed Percocet and was taking Vicodin. (AR 972.) Plaintiff further indicated that his orthopedist, Dr. Muhlrad, diagnosed him with torn cartilage in his right knee but postponed surgery pending plaintiffs gastric banding surgery. (AR 973.) Plaintiff also confirmed that “since he has been losing ... weight his back has been hurting a lot more” but that “his diabetes is under control.” (Id.) IX. 2008 Termination of Plaintiff’s LTD Benefits A. Ms. Staz’s Preliminary Recommendation to Terminate Benefits On April 28, 2008, Ms. Staz wrote letters to Dr. Schiller and Dr. Brathwaite inquiring whether plaintiff was capable of performing full-time sedentary or light-duty work, as defined by the United States Department of Labor (“DOL”). (AR 147-50, 1889.) In both letters, Hartford provided the following definition of “light work”: The U.S. Department of Labor defines light work as exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly (constantly: activity or condition exists 2/3 or more of the time) to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Even though the weight lifted may be only a negligible amount, a job should be rated Light Work: (1) when it requires walking or standing to a significant degree; or (2) when it requires sitting most of the time but entails pushing and/or pulling of arm or leg controls; and/or (3) when the job requires working at a production rate pace entailing the constant pushing and/or pulling of materials even though the weight of those materials is negligible. (AR 147, 149.) Additionally, both letters provided the definition of “sedentary work” as follows: The U.S. Department of Labor defines sedentary work as follows: exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently (frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally and all other sedentary criteria are met. (AR 148,150.) Hartford then posed the following question to Dr. Schiller: “In your opinion, is Stephen Topalian capable of full-time (8 hours a day, 5 days a week) light work due to his knee pain?” (AR 147.) In response, Dr. Schiller placed a checkmark next to “No.” (Id.) Hartford also asked Dr. Schiller: “In your opinion, is Mr. Topalian capable of full-time (8 hours a day, 5 days a week) sedentary work due to his knee pain and low back pain?” (AR 148.) Dr. Schiller placed a checkmark next to “Yes.” (Id.) Hartford then instructed Dr. Schiller to “provide [his] rationale” and supporting medical evidence should he determine that plaintiff “is unable to return to” either light or sedentary work as a result of his knee and back pain. (Id.) Despite this invitation, Dr. Schiller provided no such rationale. (Id.) Hartford posed similar questions to Dr. Brathwaite. (AR 149.) Specifically, Hartford asked Dr. Brathwaite whether plaintiff was capable of full time light work and whether plaintiff was capable of full time sedentary work due to his lap band surgery. (AR 149-50.) In response to both questions, Dr. Brathwaite placed a check-mark next to “Yes.” (Id.) On May 13, 2008, plaintiff contacted Ms. Staz and informed her that he lost 39 pounds since his gastric banding surgery and that “[t]he only complications he is having is [that] he hit his knee ... and hopes to see the Orthopaedist soon. He also continues to have back pain. Other than that he has no other issues.” (AR 1887-88.) On May 27, 2008, Hartford completed an Employability Analysis Report. (AR 122-23, 144-45.) Hartford explained that its Employability Analysis Report was conducted based on plaintiffs education, training, work history, and functional capacity. (AR 122.) With respect to plaintiffs functional capacity, Hartford noted that it relied on the answers provided by Dr. Schiller and Dr. Brathwaite in response to Hartford’s questions regarding plaintiffs ability to perform light and sedentary work. (Id.) Upon review of plaintiffs functional capacity, education, skills, and employment history, Hartford determined that plaintiff had the requisite skill, knowledge, and functional capacity to perform at least three sedentary occupations prevalent in the national economy: (1) “Supervisor, Claims”; (2) “Supervisor, Correspondence Section”; and (3) “Automobile Club Safety Program Coordinator.” (AR 123.) On May 29, 2008, Ms. Staz reviewed plaintiffs extensive medical history. and supporting medical documentation, determined that plaintiff “has the ability to perform a sedentary occupation,” and recommended termination of plaintiffs LTD benefits. (AR 1881-85.) B. Hartford’s Confirmation of Ms. Staz’s Recommendation Hartford did not terminate plaintiffs benefits immediately after Ms. Staz’s recommendation. Rather, Hartford conducted further investigation “to ascertain if there has been recent [medical treatment] for other conditions which might impact the claimant’s functionality.” (AR 1885.) To that end, Ms. Staz contacted the offices of Dr. Sauter, Dr. Boglia, Dr. Zito, Dr. Capustin, and therapist Kathleen Van Essendelft on June 6, 2008, seeking information regarding plaintiffs recent treatment and updated medical records. (AR 1880-81.) Dr. Sauter’s office informed Hartford that plaintiffs last office visit was on March 2, 2006, (AR 112, 1880), and Dr. Boglia’s office advised Hartford that plaintiffs last office visit was on March 5, 2008, (AR 1881.) Dr. Zito’s office notified Hartford that plaintiffs next scheduled appointment was for June 17, 2008 and provided treatment records for plaintiffs most recent office visit on June 1, 2007. (AR 1880-81.) Those treatment records related to plaintiffs annual urological examination. (AR 1880.) On June 16, 2008, Dr. Capustin promptly replied to Ms. Staz’s inquiry and provided updated medical records dating back to May 2007. (AR 108-11, 1879.) In particular, Dr. Capustin produced a letter dated May 30, 2007 to Dr. Brathwaite, in which Dr. Capustin advised that plaintiff was on a CPAP machine for obstructive sleep apnea and that “[r]epeat CPAP titration is not required.” (AR 109.) In that May 30th letter, Dr. Capustin noted that “as weight loss progresses, CPAP pressures will be titrated down.” (Id.) On July 8, 2008, Hartford received a letter from Dr. Van Essendelft, who advised that plaintiff was receiving psycho-therapeutic treatment on a weekly to biweekly basis beginning in June 4, 2007 related to his obesity. (AR 105.) In that letter, Dr. Van Essendelft provided a diagnosis of adjustment disorder with mixed disturbance of emotions, listing the psychological stressors of disability and relationship issues at home. (Id.) Ten days later, on July 18, 2008, Hartford received Dr. Boglia’s medical records dated January 2, 2007 through June 19, 2008. (AR 59-66, 69-74, 1879.) In a June 19, 2008 office visit note, Dr. Boglia noted that plaintiff “may need a [left] knee replacement” and observed that plaintiff appeared stressed because of a divorce. (AR 59.) Dr. Boglia noted, however, that plaintiff was “feeling better” and trying to lose weight and “take control of [his] health.” (Id.) Similarly, in a March 17, 2008 office visit note, Dr. Boglia discussed plaintiffs November 2007 gastric banding surgery and plaintiffs subsequent weight loss, noting that plaintiff weighed 378 pounds despite his lack of exercise. (AR 63.) Dr. Boglia further observed that, at the time of his March 2008 office visit, plaintiffs father had died, plaintiff was going through a divorce, and that plaintiff discovered gravel in his