Disability Appeal Process

When the insurance company denies your initial claim, you have the right to appeal.  However, the disability appeal process can be complex, and requirements often vary between long-term disability insurance policies.

If you have a group policy through your employer, then you must deal with ERISA law.  Under ERISA, the appeal stage is the last time you may submit new and updated evidence or documentation.  In short, if your appeal is unsuccessful, you cannot submit evidence during litigation under ERISA.  Thus, it is vital to gather the right evidence as soon as possible.

Submitting an Appeal to the Insurance Company

When you receive a denial on your initial claim, you will also receive a denial letter indicating the specific reasons why the insurance company did not approve your claim.  Claimants should directly address these issues in their appeal  Additionally, you should submit additional evidence needed to fill in any other gaps you may had had in your claim.

Your specific policy will include instructions and deadlines for appealing a denial.  It is important that all claimants read their policy carefully.  Even during this stage, the insurance company will try and find a reason to deny an appeal.

Therefore, it is best to update all your evidence.  This can include:

• Medical records;
• Witness statements;
• Outside medical evaluations; and
• Vocational evaluations.

Updating your information is crucial.  Remember, if the insurance company denies your appeal, you would have to file a lawsuit in court to win your benefits.

Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick Can Help with Your LTD Appeal

The appeal stage is critical and is often frustrating.  Since it is such an important stage of the claim and appeals process, it is the best time to consult a long-term disability attorney.  Our team is prepared to help you with your appeal.

We will thoroughly evaluate both your LTD policy and your denial letter.  We will determine the best evidence to submit as part of your appeal.  Moreover, we will gather all necessary elements of your appeal package.  We will submit this package to your insurance company and ensure that they handle it fairly.

Call CCK Today for a Free Consultation Regarding Your Appeal

We understand how difficult obtaining long-term disability benefits can, and we want to help you navigate this frustrating process.  When you receive a denial of your initial claim, it can be very disheartening.  However, it is your right to appeal.  We will help you submit this appeal so that you may receive the benefits you deserve.

Call CCK today at (800) 544-9144 for a free consultation regarding your appeal and see how we may be able to assist.