When I was sexually approached way back in l985, I was told, “he was just a good ole’ boy and to let it go (even by Richard Ravin, the President at a dinner attended by Richard, his wife, Judy, my district manager & me at the Palm Resturant in Chicago). The same “good ole boy,” in 1998, was successful in withholding MY bonus out of every sales manager in the U.S. When I sent a fax and the AON building personnel took copies of it, I was order fired. Knowing the story, my D.M. refused. Now, Richard has had us convicted in Federal Court of several charges involving “Ghost Agents” or phony manweeks, which I am sure that every manager at every level does.
I am looking for anyone who knows anything about a curent suit against combined ins. Mo branch. I worked for them in Nov of 03 and should be in on this suit. Information was sent to an address I no longer am at and need any info.
Thank You
Shellie, just logged on for the 1st time in forever and if you are still interested in the law suit against CICA, here are the attorneys names: Mietes, Mulder, Burger & Mollica (Chicago-based) and Benassi & Benassi (Peoria-based). Good luck and go get ’em! Let me know if you need any help whatsoever; I know a lot of the so-called “BRASS” at Combined. Thanks
I would like to know the results of this lawsuit. I think it went to court in December, 2004 to see if there would be any monetary damages to those women who filed to be a part of the class action.
I also would like to know the status of the lawsuit I was told if I did not hear from them I could expect a check sometime in March were you told this also?
I would like to know if anyone knows the progress of this lawsuit?? I sent in a written statement to the courts of encounters that happen when I worked for Combined. Can you please email me back some information on this?? Thank You
I emailed the firm handling the case, and on 2/16, a gal from the firm called me. She said that a settlement has been reached, and to expect a check in the mail in about 3 months, maybe even sooner.
I haven’t heard anything new, but was told over the phone that the award amounts that were disclosed in the paperwork would stand: it depends on how long you were employed by Combined. If you were there 90 days or less (if I remember correctly) the amt. is $500, and it goes up from there the longer employed. Isn’t that what you were told in the notification?
I did not recieve anything that had any amounts listed on it. Actually I had moved to another address and it was December before I got a letter from them. Thanks for the information.
yes that is pretty much what she said although she said they wasn’t sure as to how much a point was worth in dollars, she also said that they are in the process of verifiying employment status and then it would go to the courts then to combined who would inturn issue a check
I spoke with some one from the lawyers office and she confirmed that it will be a few months before any checks are mailed out also she said they will be going by a point system to determine the payout amounts
Thanks for posting…from what I gather, it is a point system based on the no. of days employed with Combined; is that what they told you the points were based on? Or did they tell you the points were based on something else?
Well, no wonder it will take a few months. Thanks for the info. I wish the points were based on the level of grief caused by working for Combined. I sent in a bunch of stuff re: my headaches and stress after being hired. If I remember correctly, 90 days and less with Combined is $500, and it goes up from there…guess we’ll have to be patient and see. I’ll post if I find out anything new.
I was discriminated against due to racism. I was called a “white shadow” for the entire training period in Benton Harbor, Mich. The managers, district and regional expressed their views when I complained…. that “nothing will happen” and for me to just “drop it!” I terminated my position with AON, due to this particular incidence.
Has anyone been contacted as to the time period pertaining to the lawsuit determination?
I don’t have the number in front of me, but it’s the same number that you received with your letter. You call that number and they connect you to this automated line. It tells you that the information will be available on May 1.
My letter was pretty extensive i.e. much info, but doesn’t have a number to call for updates…you must of received a different letter from the law firm- maybe because I worked for Combined less than 90 days, I don’t know…
Since I don’t have the number in front of me, maybe somebody else can respond with the number for those who never had access to it. The number belongs to the law firm, then they direct you to this automated line. No information will be available until May 1, according to the automated message.
I filled out a claim form to participate in the lawsuit. I have heard nothing since. I see the mention of a “letter” that some people appear to have recieved. When was this letter recieved? Will everyone who filed a claim receive a settlement? Thanks for any info. The only number I could find on the website were for individual lawyers. Does anyone have the number for this “automated” response on May 1 ?
The number to the law office is 312.263.0272. We were expected to know something about the settlement on May 1. But they still don’t know and direct you to a message saying they are still going through the claims. I would suggest waiting another month or so to call back.
does anyone besides me wonder if we are kind of getting the run around about this I was told at first that checks would be mailed out in March 2005. I kind of wonder if they needed a bunch of letters just to push the case through
…a law firm of such calibre wouldn’t give anybody the runaround. When they sent me the paperwork/class action application (last year), I was surprised, as it was the first I heard of the lawsuit. I researched it and found various articles on-line about it. It is a valid class action suit, and the law firm found me by mailing the packet to my current address- it is amazing to me that they found me where I live now, and under my new married name, too.
Class action suits take a long time- usually 1 to 3 years, I have read, and so, this is typical…the suit was filed back in March of 2003- if I remember correctly.
I called the law office last week, and the up-date I was given was that the claim, and amounts, should be settled by the end of this month, and then it will be forwarded to Combined for payment.
I know how you feel, though- I am impatient to get the check, especially after the fiasco I went thru in the short time I worked at Combined. Mr. Stone is probably rolling in his grave- God Bless his soul; as the founder of Combined, he seemed like a decent and honest man and business owner (I read his book.)
We need help regarding manweeks with Combined Insurance Company of America. We need statements from anybody, anywhere who can prove that this was a not only accepted, but expected procedure with the company.
This lawsuit in minor compared to what we can do with proof of the phoney manweeks that Combined Insurance has you put on report.
Please respond and ask your fellow co-workers to help us.
Thank you.
could you explain exactly what you are referring to when you say phoney man weeks? I would like to help in anyway possible. I think they owe us majorly I lost a lot of things when I worked for combined including a car in which I am being sued for right now not to mentioned they stiffed me out of a so called bonus.
Well, u wouldn’t be the 1st to be beat out of anything, believe me. But “phoney manweeks” refers to agents/managers who did not work a particular week, but are turned in for income anyway so it appears that they did, in fact, work.
As I said, it is a company-wide practice and well-known about employees.
If you know anything of this or anybody who does, please let me know.
Jodi, It has been 7 years. I don’t have any proof except that I remember what happened. If someone could get my records of income, the weeks where I showed $200 or less would be “manweeks”. These were weeks my manager insisted after I either trained an agent or hired all week that I renew enough premium to show a manweek.On a regular week I sold alot of insurance and made good money. I am not sure how much help I can be, but I am willing to do what I can. Email me at genigarrett@hotmail.com if I can be of assistance.
Also, someone mentioned checks that were cut in March. I know one of the recipients, and they were to the original claiments that paid for the original lawsuit. I worked for CICA for four years. THey had me truly “wamboozled”. I believed I would be successful and worked for a great company. Unfortunatley the further I got promoted the more my eyes were opened to the manilulative practices that occurred. I liken the tactics used to that of the mofia. Often we were told to make something happen in a way that we believed if we did not it would effect our future. On the other hand they said things in a manner that if they were approached they could say, “I didn’t mean it that way, she misunderstood…”. Croookkked! I agree with the person who stated Mr. Stone was rolling in his grave. The company is not what he intended it to be so many years ago. What a shame! Ramble…
I found this site looking for info on the harassment case. When I left CICA I was a District manager. The sub and the regional called me begging (litteraly) to make a “man week”. “Just fill out a form, we’ll get you some premium. You have to show one hundred dollars.” I was starting a new job so it was out of the question. I had already turned in my resignation. This was not the only time it happened. On hiring weeks as well as when I took vacation, it was insisted upon that I show a manweek. I came to realize it meant many things. One of which was the bonusing for the subs and regionals. Does it have more significance than that? I too feel disapointed in how things were handled and would love to help keep them from manipulating people like they did myself.
There are additional ramifications going to occur from these manweeks. Can you contact me? Or perhaps send a letter to Spitzer in New York telling what you know? This is very important. CICA can not hurt you now and you help to stop them from hurting innocent people.
I read on-line that this isn’t the only class action suit against Combined- one class action was filed for current female employees, also…if someone received a check in March, it was probably from that (and more power to ’em)
Has anyone received a check yet? I don’t know about any “man weeks” but have heard upper management talk about this. I just hope that the Combine will just do what is right in the case and that is pay up!
Sure! Here are some links that I cut and paste for you. One lawsuit was denied class action status at first, but then changed back to a class action- that is the one I received notification on, I believe- last year…claims still pending. So, I wouldn’t call these old news- I found them while researching through dogpile.com – from credible sources.
I worked for combined on and off for almost 9 years and i started when i was 22 and fresh out of college-I was in a southern state and some of the things i saw made me glad to be away-yes i was stolen from and my money was always not right at the end of the week where my earnings were put on someone elses bottom line and i never got that back. i have also been to houses where people were made to pay their premium for a year then only credited for 6 months. my dm then he became my regional was anal about manweeks-there were even times he would make me go out on a saturday morning and get him one or else he told me he would not check me in for the week-i have seen it all; and I know that Mr. Stone is for sure rolling in his grave. It is sad that a company can be so evil with such an incredible founder.
We have had many answers from different postings regarding Combined’s “company practices” and what is required of employees. Of special interest is the “phoney manweeks.” We are gathering information about all people who have knowledge of all dishonest practices and will channel it in the right direction (not positive if it will be the U.S. Attorney General or who; but will be put out there where the company’s money doesn’t count. President Bush gave a speech regarding his big ambition to go after any CEO or executive of a company who deceives the public and we have names of the chairman and committee members to whom we are supposed to send this info.
So, talk to all your “combined” friends and find out who knows what. Word of mouth works best. Combined Insurance Company of America has not only hurt many people, it has created stress that has caused people irreparable harm. Let’s work together to right Mr. Stone’s company. It used to be a GREAT one and they DID believe in “doing the right thing because it was the right thing to do.” So, don’t feel bad about being fooled by them. Be in touch again soon.
the base monetary award is 500.then it goes on a point system 1 to 270 days is 3000 dollars . 271 to 360 i believe is 6000 dollars (so 6,500)AND SO ON FROM THERE. I DO HAVE THE FORMULA AT HOME, I WILL WRITE IT UP IN A COUPLE DAYS
could you please send me the formula to my email wygenia@hotmail.com for some reason I keep getting alerts saying there is something posted but when I go to this site there is nothing new posted I think I my page may be full or something
According to the law firm, they will start mailing out letters and checks around August 15 and everyone should have their checks by Sept. 9. Anyone wanting to hear the whole message can call 1.312.263.0272. So this is good news. There were more than 1,100 in the suit.
I rec’d a notification of a new post here, but there is nothing new. If someone posted, and it didn’t appear, could you please re-post? Thank you- I am anxious for up-dates!
I checked with the law firm again and the message is the same as it was a month ago. They will be mailing out checks with letters beginning August 15, which is next Monday. If you haven’t received a check by Sept. 9, you are instructed to call them at 312.263.0272. I would like to see anyone who gets a check to post here. I will do the same.
yes I got my check also and yes they really taxed it they had me with 0 exemptions. oh well, and yes I got a phone call on saturday from a guy who manages the Life insurance division trying to get me to sell life insurance for combined I told him no way in the world. He did not mention the lawsuit and neither did I. The amount of the check was not that much but I am grateful for it and it came just in time.
There is no list, however I called the law office and asked if my name was included in the list of claimants and the lady looked me up and confirmed that I was.
Got my check today. They took a lot out for taxes and was smaller then what I hoped. Anyone else get a check? I also seen that Combined tried to call (on caller ID), did they call anyone else?
I never received the letter explaining the point system so I can’t answer that question. I am curious about that myself although I have received my check already and it really would not make a difference :-)
mine came today too-after 8 years of suffering mine was nice, but it will never be enough to cover what i lost due to the constant stealing out of my checks.
I am in the Carolinas. I wonder when I will get my check. Are you all closer to Chicago that have your checks already? Thanks to all for posting that you have your checks. At least we know for sure that this was all real.
I am located in Georgia. It looks like the check was mailed out on Aug.11, 2005. It was actually cut on July 27,2005.
CZ may I ask how long you were employed with combined
Got the base amt. award, as I was there less than 90 days- and yes, a gouge taken out for taxes. Oh well, I am thankful for this $ as it was pretty exasperating when I was with Combined- helps make up for it. They haven’t called me, LOL, and I’d tell them “forget it!” if they do. I hope some of those “team players” straighten up their act now- too many women suffered while at Combined.
I live in Michigan and received my check on 8-15-02, for $500, after taxes it was $317.00, but hey I’ll take whatever I can get :) My thanks to everyone who has made a posting regarding this lawsuit.
Tx
I did not get the letter that initially that explained the point system. maybe if you can tell me more of what the point system consist of I will try to figure out how many points I had according to what I received.
The letter indicted that everyone would get a base settlement of $500. After that, each point would be worth so much. In other words, if you worked 90-270 days at Combined, you would get one point. If you worked 271 days up to the next level, you got two points. The example in the letter assigned about $3,000 per point, which would give someone who worked between 90 and 270 days approximately $3,500 before taxes. Does this appear to be close to how it really turned out? I am trying to get some things in order awaiting the check and I have no clue how much it might be, plus the fact that I am teetering between one and two points.
that could be so for 180 days it was half of that and then I was taxed for about 500.00 so maybe this will help if you worked for 270 days then maybe somewhere between 2500 and 3000 then remember to deduct the taxes and I do mean all taxes you know state, federal, ss and they had me with no exemptions they actually issued these checks as if they were pay checks they even had my old sells manager name on the stub he may have even made money off of this check as well. and I was a claimant of both suits. I hope this will help you out.
Thank you, Van. Sounds like we are getting a little less than we had hoped. I am guessing about 34 percent of the check went to taxes. Were you at Combined 180 days?
I was there less than 90 days, since their declaration of employment started the day you “hit the field” not all the training we had to endure. The letter I recieved listed both claims?
yes I was employed with combined 180 days.you will probably get close to 3000. before taxes if you were there for 270 days. I lost a lot while I was working for them. Thank God he has restored everything I lost back to me double and then this check I consider a blessing also it is not what I thought it would be but it is more than I had if you know what I mean. :-) since over 1000 people filed claims I think that may have lowered the amount substantially
But if I was there 269 days, which I’m sure they will probably tinker with to show, I will get substantially less than $3,000 before taxes. But I will take what I can get and be thankful. Thanks for all your posts. I will post again when I get my check.
I am still waiting. Can anybody tell me what someone who worked between 90 and 270 days got, and those from 270 days on up? In other words, how much was one point worth? I was on the 270-day edge. I’m sure they will somehow find I worked 269 days!
Well I had over a year of employment for a max of 3 pts. my gross before taxes was $3440. My estimate is that a point was worth approx $1000 ( a little less ). Hope that helps someone.
Is there anybody who has not received their check? I still have not received mine. I was told that I am on the list and all checks were mailed August 12. Seems like one last cruel joke from Combined (or the mail man). We really need the money as you all do.
I guess everybody left this site once they got their checks. I have to call on September 9 because mine got lost in the mail. I did confirm being on the list. I guess if someone were to lose a check in the mail out of 1,100-plus, it’s me!
I am sorry to hear that your check got lost in the mail…. hopefully you will get it soon. I was wondering if any of us would still communicate once we got the checks….
Thanks. It looks like most everybody dropped on out as we all eventually will. I eagerly await September 9 to make that phone call. I have never had anything lost in the mail in my life that I am aware of until now.
I recived a call today regurding the a check I had forgotten about the claim, could any one tell me about how much they will be and how many points that is worthI worked there for 11 months 12 if you count all the trainning.
When I was sexually approached way back in l985, I was told, “he was just a good ole’ boy and to let it go (even by Richard Ravin, the President at a dinner attended by Richard, his wife, Judy, my district manager & me at the Palm Resturant in Chicago). The same “good ole boy,” in 1998, was successful in withholding MY bonus out of every sales manager in the U.S. When I sent a fax and the AON building personnel took copies of it, I was order fired. Knowing the story, my D.M. refused. Now, Richard has had us convicted in Federal Court of several charges involving “Ghost Agents” or phony manweeks, which I am sure that every manager at every level does.
I am looking for anyone who knows anything about a curent suit against combined ins. Mo branch. I worked for them in Nov of 03 and should be in on this suit. Information was sent to an address I no longer am at and need any info.
Thank You
Shellie, just logged on for the 1st time in forever and if you are still interested in the law suit against CICA, here are the attorneys names: Mietes, Mulder, Burger & Mollica (Chicago-based) and Benassi & Benassi (Peoria-based). Good luck and go get ’em! Let me know if you need any help whatsoever; I know a lot of the so-called “BRASS” at Combined. Thanks
I would like to know the results of this lawsuit. I think it went to court in December, 2004 to see if there would be any monetary damages to those women who filed to be a part of the class action.
I also would like to know the status of the lawsuit I was told if I did not hear from them I could expect a check sometime in March were you told this also?
I would like to know if anyone knows the progress of this lawsuit?? I sent in a written statement to the courts of encounters that happen when I worked for Combined. Can you please email me back some information on this?? Thank You
I was told about March, but I have not received anything to confirm this or if the case would be awarding any money.
Does anyone know the status of the Combined sexual discrimination case?
I had called the firm that is handling the case and they are in the process of getting the money sent out. She stated this could take some time.
I emailed the firm handling the case, and on 2/16, a gal from the firm called me. She said that a settlement has been reached, and to expect a check in the mail in about 3 months, maybe even sooner.
has anyone heard anymore about the settlement since the last post of feb. 17th and do anyone know how much we are suppose to get? just curious
I haven’t heard anything new, but was told over the phone that the award amounts that were disclosed in the paperwork would stand: it depends on how long you were employed by Combined. If you were there 90 days or less (if I remember correctly) the amt. is $500, and it goes up from there the longer employed. Isn’t that what you were told in the notification?
I did not recieve anything that had any amounts listed on it. Actually I had moved to another address and it was December before I got a letter from them. Thanks for the information.
yes that is pretty much what she said although she said they wasn’t sure as to how much a point was worth in dollars, she also said that they are in the process of verifiying employment status and then it would go to the courts then to combined who would inturn issue a check
I spoke with some one from the lawyers office and she confirmed that it will be a few months before any checks are mailed out also she said they will be going by a point system to determine the payout amounts
Thanks for posting…from what I gather, it is a point system based on the no. of days employed with Combined; is that what they told you the points were based on? Or did they tell you the points were based on something else?
Well, no wonder it will take a few months. Thanks for the info. I wish the points were based on the level of grief caused by working for Combined. I sent in a bunch of stuff re: my headaches and stress after being hired. If I remember correctly, 90 days and less with Combined is $500, and it goes up from there…guess we’ll have to be patient and see. I’ll post if I find out anything new.
IS IT TOO LATE TO FILE A CLAIM! I JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS AND I WORKED FOR THEM JOKES FOR 2 YEARS! PLEASE SEND INFO TO ANGELPROPST@AOL.COM
as far as I know the deadline was January 15 I will find their number and send it to you via email if you like
I worked for the company at this time. Is there a number I was suppose to contact?
I was discriminated against due to racism. I was called a “white shadow” for the entire training period in Benton Harbor, Mich. The managers, district and regional expressed their views when I complained…. that “nothing will happen” and for me to just “drop it!” I terminated my position with AON, due to this particular incidence.
Has anyone been contacted as to the time period pertaining to the lawsuit determination?
supposedly withn the next few months
Who can I call or e-mail to find out when checks might be coming and for approximately what amount?
did you recieve a letter from them that you had to return?
Yes, I did.
call the number listed on the letter and please let me know what they say to you thanks
They are currently processing approximately 1,000 claims and will have an automated update at that phone number on May 1.
thanks looks like a lot of people filed claims
Hello- thanks for that info! What’s the number the automated info. will be available at (on May 1)?
Yes, I would also appreciate the number if anyone has it to post in the comments.
Thanks so much
I don’t have the number in front of me, but it’s the same number that you received with your letter. You call that number and they connect you to this automated line. It tells you that the information will be available on May 1.
My letter was pretty extensive i.e. much info, but doesn’t have a number to call for updates…you must of received a different letter from the law firm- maybe because I worked for Combined less than 90 days, I don’t know…
Since I don’t have the number in front of me, maybe somebody else can respond with the number for those who never had access to it. The number belongs to the law firm, then they direct you to this automated line. No information will be available until May 1, according to the automated message.
Ok, thanks…the phone no. for the law firm is on their home page:
http://www.mmbmlaw.com/
May 1 is not that far off!
Hello :) Thanks so much for the website.
Has anyone received a check yet?
What letter? Is this the letter that was sent with the claim forms?
I filled out a claim form to participate in the lawsuit. I have heard nothing since. I see the mention of a “letter” that some people appear to have recieved. When was this letter recieved? Will everyone who filed a claim receive a settlement? Thanks for any info. The only number I could find on the website were for individual lawyers. Does anyone have the number for this “automated” response on May 1 ?
The number to the law office is 312.263.0272. We were expected to know something about the settlement on May 1. But they still don’t know and direct you to a message saying they are still going through the claims. I would suggest waiting another month or so to call back.
does anyone besides me wonder if we are kind of getting the run around about this I was told at first that checks would be mailed out in March 2005. I kind of wonder if they needed a bunch of letters just to push the case through
Had anyone heard anything???
I worked for combined for over a year and my mom for 10 or so years… both in 7th Essential.
*SIGH* I hope we all didn’t get the run around just to send a bunch of letters.
…a law firm of such calibre wouldn’t give anybody the runaround. When they sent me the paperwork/class action application (last year), I was surprised, as it was the first I heard of the lawsuit. I researched it and found various articles on-line about it. It is a valid class action suit, and the law firm found me by mailing the packet to my current address- it is amazing to me that they found me where I live now, and under my new married name, too.
Class action suits take a long time- usually 1 to 3 years, I have read, and so, this is typical…the suit was filed back in March of 2003- if I remember correctly.
I called the law office last week, and the up-date I was given was that the claim, and amounts, should be settled by the end of this month, and then it will be forwarded to Combined for payment.
I know how you feel, though- I am impatient to get the check, especially after the fiasco I went thru in the short time I worked at Combined. Mr. Stone is probably rolling in his grave- God Bless his soul; as the founder of Combined, he seemed like a decent and honest man and business owner (I read his book.)
I was just wondering since its almost june if anyones heard anything about the lawsuit???????It would help a lot ..thanks
still waiting hope it will not be much longer
The latest info I received, 0n June 1st, was that the claims are almost processed, when they are completed – Combined has 60 days to issue checks.
We need help regarding manweeks with Combined Insurance Company of America. We need statements from anybody, anywhere who can prove that this was a not only accepted, but expected procedure with the company.
This lawsuit in minor compared to what we can do with proof of the phoney manweeks that Combined Insurance has you put on report.
Please respond and ask your fellow co-workers to help us.
Thank you.
could you explain exactly what you are referring to when you say phoney man weeks? I would like to help in anyway possible. I think they owe us majorly I lost a lot of things when I worked for combined including a car in which I am being sued for right now not to mentioned they stiffed me out of a so called bonus.
Well, u wouldn’t be the 1st to be beat out of anything, believe me. But “phoney manweeks” refers to agents/managers who did not work a particular week, but are turned in for income anyway so it appears that they did, in fact, work.
As I said, it is a company-wide practice and well-known about employees.
If you know anything of this or anybody who does, please let me know.
I heard about that- didn’t catch wind of it in the short time I was with Combined, though. I think I read about it at http://www.ripoffreport.com
Someone posted a complaint about it.
Good luck.
Jodi, It has been 7 years. I don’t have any proof except that I remember what happened. If someone could get my records of income, the weeks where I showed $200 or less would be “manweeks”. These were weeks my manager insisted after I either trained an agent or hired all week that I renew enough premium to show a manweek.On a regular week I sold alot of insurance and made good money. I am not sure how much help I can be, but I am willing to do what I can. Email me at genigarrett@hotmail.com if I can be of assistance.
Also, someone mentioned checks that were cut in March. I know one of the recipients, and they were to the original claiments that paid for the original lawsuit. I worked for CICA for four years. THey had me truly “wamboozled”. I believed I would be successful and worked for a great company. Unfortunatley the further I got promoted the more my eyes were opened to the manilulative practices that occurred. I liken the tactics used to that of the mofia. Often we were told to make something happen in a way that we believed if we did not it would effect our future. On the other hand they said things in a manner that if they were approached they could say, “I didn’t mean it that way, she misunderstood…”. Croookkked! I agree with the person who stated Mr. Stone was rolling in his grave. The company is not what he intended it to be so many years ago. What a shame! Ramble…
I found this site looking for info on the harassment case. When I left CICA I was a District manager. The sub and the regional called me begging (litteraly) to make a “man week”. “Just fill out a form, we’ll get you some premium. You have to show one hundred dollars.” I was starting a new job so it was out of the question. I had already turned in my resignation. This was not the only time it happened. On hiring weeks as well as when I took vacation, it was insisted upon that I show a manweek. I came to realize it meant many things. One of which was the bonusing for the subs and regionals. Does it have more significance than that? I too feel disapointed in how things were handled and would love to help keep them from manipulating people like they did myself.
There are additional ramifications going to occur from these manweeks. Can you contact me? Or perhaps send a letter to Spitzer in New York telling what you know? This is very important. CICA can not hurt you now and you help to stop them from hurting innocent people.
I read on-line that this isn’t the only class action suit against Combined- one class action was filed for current female employees, also…if someone received a check in March, it was probably from that (and more power to ’em)
Has anyone received a check yet? I don’t know about any “man weeks” but have heard upper management talk about this. I just hope that the Combine will just do what is right in the case and that is pay up!
may I ask where you read this online
Sure! Here are some links that I cut and paste for you. One lawsuit was denied class action status at first, but then changed back to a class action- that is the one I received notification on, I believe- last year…claims still pending. So, I wouldn’t call these old news- I found them while researching through dogpile.com – from credible sources.
http://www.businessinsurance.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?newsId=4274
http://www.businessinsurance.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?newsId=2316
http://www.higinsurance.com/about_us/news/newsletter/october_2004_enews.htm
(about 3/4 down the page)
Let me know if you have some links to different articles.
I worked for combined on and off for almost 9 years and i started when i was 22 and fresh out of college-I was in a southern state and some of the things i saw made me glad to be away-yes i was stolen from and my money was always not right at the end of the week where my earnings were put on someone elses bottom line and i never got that back. i have also been to houses where people were made to pay their premium for a year then only credited for 6 months. my dm then he became my regional was anal about manweeks-there were even times he would make me go out on a saturday morning and get him one or else he told me he would not check me in for the week-i have seen it all; and I know that Mr. Stone is for sure rolling in his grave. It is sad that a company can be so evil with such an incredible founder.
Any one keep a copy of the claim and the formula they were using to figure the check amounts? No check yet, but I can think about what I may get:)
I would like to know the formula if anyone still has it.
We have had many answers from different postings regarding Combined’s “company practices” and what is required of employees. Of special interest is the “phoney manweeks.” We are gathering information about all people who have knowledge of all dishonest practices and will channel it in the right direction (not positive if it will be the U.S. Attorney General or who; but will be put out there where the company’s money doesn’t count. President Bush gave a speech regarding his big ambition to go after any CEO or executive of a company who deceives the public and we have names of the chairman and committee members to whom we are supposed to send this info.
So, talk to all your “combined” friends and find out who knows what. Word of mouth works best. Combined Insurance Company of America has not only hurt many people, it has created stress that has caused people irreparable harm. Let’s work together to right Mr. Stone’s company. It used to be a GREAT one and they DID believe in “doing the right thing because it was the right thing to do.” So, don’t feel bad about being fooled by them. Be in touch again soon.
the base monetary award is 500.then it goes on a point system 1 to 270 days is 3000 dollars . 271 to 360 i believe is 6000 dollars (so 6,500)AND SO ON FROM THERE. I DO HAVE THE FORMULA AT HOME, I WILL WRITE IT UP IN A COUPLE DAYS
could you please send me the formula to my email wygenia@hotmail.com for some reason I keep getting alerts saying there is something posted but when I go to this site there is nothing new posted I think I my page may be full or something
According to the law firm, they will start mailing out letters and checks around August 15 and everyone should have their checks by Sept. 9. Anyone wanting to hear the whole message can call 1.312.263.0272. So this is good news. There were more than 1,100 in the suit.
Thanks, DH, for the update. Also, thanks, AS, for the info. you provided…if you could, please provide the formula here (when you get home).
Like van wrote, I also rec’d notification a time or two of a new posting, and there wasn’t any (?)
I rec’d a notification of a new post here, but there is nothing new. If someone posted, and it didn’t appear, could you please re-post? Thank you- I am anxious for up-dates!
It was not anything to do with combined someone put an advertisement for viagra on this site. Hopefully it was removed by the web master.
Oh, I C, that explains it. Glad that they remove items like that from these comments pages.
Just curious as to whether anyone has recieved a check yet??
Not yet- Look at the “Update” post here, dated July 5th…
I checked with the law firm again and the message is the same as it was a month ago. They will be mailing out checks with letters beginning August 15, which is next Monday. If you haven’t received a check by Sept. 9, you are instructed to call them at 312.263.0272. I would like to see anyone who gets a check to post here. I will do the same.
Does anyone know where I can locate the list of names who are to receive a settlement? Many thanks!
I don’t think a list of names is available. Any calls to that office are directed to a message about the settlement and they are taking no questions.
Due to confidentiality I do not believe that a list would be obtainable. I will post if and when I receive a check. Thanks
Thanks! I just thought I’d check. I broke my wrist & wasn’t sure if I submitted in time. Will post if/when I receive a check.
yes I got my check also and yes they really taxed it they had me with 0 exemptions. oh well, and yes I got a phone call on saturday from a guy who manages the Life insurance division trying to get me to sell life insurance for combined I told him no way in the world. He did not mention the lawsuit and neither did I. The amount of the check was not that much but I am grateful for it and it came just in time.
There is no list, however I called the law office and asked if my name was included in the list of claimants and the lady looked me up and confirmed that I was.
Got my check today. They took a lot out for taxes and was smaller then what I hoped. Anyone else get a check? I also seen that Combined tried to call (on caller ID), did they call anyone else?
Did people get more than $500? I am teetering between one and two points in the point system because I was there close to 270 days.
I never received the letter explaining the point system so I can’t answer that question. I am curious about that myself although I have received my check already and it really would not make a difference :-)
I think you will get more than 500.00, but do you know whether it made a difference if you were a clamit of both cases or just one ?????.
I was just a claimant in one case. Does anyone know how much money you get for “each point” in addition to the $500? I haven’t received a check yet.
I haven’t rec’d a check yet, either…if I remember correctly from the notice they sent, 1-90 days of employment = $500 and then it goes up from there.
mine came today too-after 8 years of suffering mine was nice, but it will never be enough to cover what i lost due to the constant stealing out of my checks.
Received check also. Actually gross was more than expected. Thanks!
I am in the Carolinas. I wonder when I will get my check. Are you all closer to Chicago that have your checks already? Thanks to all for posting that you have your checks. At least we know for sure that this was all real.
I am located in Georgia. It looks like the check was mailed out on Aug.11, 2005. It was actually cut on July 27,2005.
CZ may I ask how long you were employed with combined
Got the base amt. award, as I was there less than 90 days- and yes, a gouge taken out for taxes. Oh well, I am thankful for this $ as it was pretty exasperating when I was with Combined- helps make up for it. They haven’t called me, LOL, and I’d tell them “forget it!” if they do. I hope some of those “team players” straighten up their act now- too many women suffered while at Combined.
I worked for Combined 6 months. Live in WA now, but was in MT at time of employment.
OK great, congrats on those who recieved checks now my question is… How much was it per point?? Thanks
Yes, I got my check also and of course they took a lot of taxes out of it. It wasn’t much but it came right on time also.
I live in Michigan and received my check on 8-15-02, for $500, after taxes it was $317.00, but hey I’ll take whatever I can get :) My thanks to everyone who has made a posting regarding this lawsuit.
Tx
Can anybody tell how much money (before taxes) that each “point” is worth?
Hi Gail
may I ask how long you worked for the company and were you a claimant of both suits or one
I did not get the letter that initially that explained the point system. maybe if you can tell me more of what the point system consist of I will try to figure out how many points I had according to what I received.
The letter indicted that everyone would get a base settlement of $500. After that, each point would be worth so much. In other words, if you worked 90-270 days at Combined, you would get one point. If you worked 271 days up to the next level, you got two points. The example in the letter assigned about $3,000 per point, which would give someone who worked between 90 and 270 days approximately $3,500 before taxes. Does this appear to be close to how it really turned out? I am trying to get some things in order awaiting the check and I have no clue how much it might be, plus the fact that I am teetering between one and two points.
that could be so for 180 days it was half of that and then I was taxed for about 500.00 so maybe this will help if you worked for 270 days then maybe somewhere between 2500 and 3000 then remember to deduct the taxes and I do mean all taxes you know state, federal, ss and they had me with no exemptions they actually issued these checks as if they were pay checks they even had my old sells manager name on the stub he may have even made money off of this check as well. and I was a claimant of both suits. I hope this will help you out.
Thank you, Van. Sounds like we are getting a little less than we had hoped. I am guessing about 34 percent of the check went to taxes. Were you at Combined 180 days?
I was there less than 90 days, since their declaration of employment started the day you “hit the field” not all the training we had to endure. The letter I recieved listed both claims?
yes I was employed with combined 180 days.you will probably get close to 3000. before taxes if you were there for 270 days. I lost a lot while I was working for them. Thank God he has restored everything I lost back to me double and then this check I consider a blessing also it is not what I thought it would be but it is more than I had if you know what I mean. :-) since over 1000 people filed claims I think that may have lowered the amount substantially
But if I was there 269 days, which I’m sure they will probably tinker with to show, I will get substantially less than $3,000 before taxes. But I will take what I can get and be thankful. Thanks for all your posts. I will post again when I get my check.
I am still waiting. Can anybody tell me what someone who worked between 90 and 270 days got, and those from 270 days on up? In other words, how much was one point worth? I was on the 270-day edge. I’m sure they will somehow find I worked 269 days!
Well I had over a year of employment for a max of 3 pts. my gross before taxes was $3440. My estimate is that a point was worth approx $1000 ( a little less ). Hope that helps someone.
Is there anybody who has not received their check? I still have not received mine. I was told that I am on the list and all checks were mailed August 12. Seems like one last cruel joke from Combined (or the mail man). We really need the money as you all do.
I guess everybody left this site once they got their checks. I have to call on September 9 because mine got lost in the mail. I did confirm being on the list. I guess if someone were to lose a check in the mail out of 1,100-plus, it’s me!
I am sorry to hear that your check got lost in the mail…. hopefully you will get it soon. I was wondering if any of us would still communicate once we got the checks….
Thanks. It looks like most everybody dropped on out as we all eventually will. I eagerly await September 9 to make that phone call. I have never had anything lost in the mail in my life that I am aware of until now.
I recived a call today regurding the a check I had forgotten about the claim, could any one tell me about how much they will be and how many points that is worthI worked there for 11 months 12 if you count all the trainning.