Debunking the Myth: Understanding the True Value of EUOs
Back in 2008, I had an idea: let’s focus exclusively on Examinations Under Oath (EUOs). At the time, we were launching the concept of a national EUO service, and as part of our preparation, we conducted a national survey.
We posed a simple, yet powerful question to claims professionals across the board—from fire and theft adjusters to Special Investigations Units (SIUs):
Why don’t you use EUOs more often?
The response was eye-opening.
The Number One Obstacle: Cost
When the responses came back from hundreds, if not thousands, of claims professionals, the overwhelming reason cited for avoiding EUOs was this: “It’s too costly.”
On the surface, this concern made sense. EUOs involve expenses, especially when outside counsel is engaged. However, after digging deeper, we realized this “cost” narrative was based on a misunderstanding.
The Real Issue: Misunderstanding the Value
The core problem wasn’t the expense of conducting EUOs—it was the failure to recognize their value. Many professionals, myself included, had mishandled EUOs in the past. I treated them like depositions or litigation files rather than what they truly are: a specialized tool with unique strategic benefits.
This mishandling often led to unnecessary expenses and ineffective outcomes. But when properly understood and applied, EUOs become one of the most valuable tools in the claims process.
When Should an EUO Be Conducted?
One of the biggest misconceptions about EUOs is that they should be used all the time, indiscriminately. That couldn’t be further from the truth.
In fact, one of the first lessons I teach is determining when an EUO is appropriate. Not every claim merits an EUO. Even when a claim might benefit from an EUO, it’s essential to assess:
- Timing – Is this the right stage in the claim’s lifecycle to conduct an EUO?
- Purpose – Why are you conducting the EUO?
- Personnel – Are you hiring the right individual or team to execute the EUO?
Each of these factors can influence not only the cost but also the overall effectiveness of the EUO.
Shifting the Focus from Cost to Value
The key to debunking the “too costly” myth lies in reframing the conversation. It’s not about conducting a cost analysis—it’s about conducting a value analysis.
Ask yourself:
- Does this specific claim merit an EUO?
- Does the value it brings outweigh the expense?
When the answer to these questions is “yes,” the cost becomes secondary. On the other hand, if the claim doesn’t warrant an EUO, no level of cost savings will justify its use.
Training for Success
Over the years, we’ve learned that the true value of an EUO lies in understanding when, why, and how to use it effectively. That’s why we focus so heavily on education and training.
By mastering these principles, claims professionals can move past the cost myth and begin leveraging EUOs as the powerful tool they are.
Conclusion
Over the years, we’ve learned that the true value of an EUO lies in understanding when, why, and how to use it effectively. That’s why we focus so heavily on education and training.
By mastering these principles, claims professionals can move past the cost myth and begin leveraging EUOs as the powerful tool they are.
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Danny Vazquez
Danny Vazquez is the National EUO, LLC CEO.
Danny is a central leader on Claims, Investigations and EUOs in the insurance and legal industries.
As CEO, Danny took the knowledge and insights gained throughout his 25 plus years legal career to establish National EUO as the Nation's leading company on EUO services and EUO training.
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