8 Do's and Don'ts When Appealing a Private Disability Claim

Having a private disability claim denied can be devastating. However, in most cases, there is a right to appeal the decision. Crafting a solid appeal is the best way to increase your chances of winning approval the second time around, We have put together some of our top tips on what you should and should not do when appealing a private disability claim.

Do File Your Appeal on Time

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Maintaining a high-quality policy such as Ameritas disability insurance is a great starting point for laying a claim. However, if a claim is denied, it is important to file your appeal within the proper appeal window. Most insurance providers have a 180-day deadline for appeals before they are automatically ineligible for review.

Do Make Sure Your Appeal is Comprehensive

It is important to provide as much information, proof, and evidence as possible during your appeal. Claims can only be appealed once, and that too within a certain time frame. Evidence not submitted during the appeal won’t be admissible in the future.

Do Stay on Good Terms With Your Clinician

While your claim is still in the appeals process, it is important to maintain a good relationship with your doctor. They will often be asked to comment on any reports provided by the insurance company’s doctor or even be tasked with creating a narrative report. Maintaining a good relationship will ensure that these requests are submitted in a timely manner.

Do Ask For Proof of Receipt

There are many times when private disability insurance providers will say that they didn’t receive the submitted documents. It is important that you always ask for a receipt or proof of receipt to safeguard your appeals timeline.

Don’t Submit an Immediate Emotional Appeal

Having a private disability claim denied can trigger feelings of outrage and hurt. This is the worst time to file an appeal to prevent making costly mistakes. Gather the information and evidence you need and file the appeal within the appropriate time frame.

Don’t Ignore SOAP notes

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There are a lot of internal notes that can be hard to follow or simply too small to read. There are many important details contained within these notes that could prove beneficial to your appeal. Working with a personal injury lawyer is one way to ensure that nothing goes overlooked, even SOAP notes.

Don’t Harass Your Medical Provider

Doctors are always happy to help their patients when it comes to getting approved for private disability coverage. However, pestering a medical provider may make them less willing to craft a response or answer a questionnaire.

Don’t Visit an FCE or IME Unaccompanied

The insurance provider will have doctors that evaluate the validity of your claim and your appeal. It is important to have a nurse, family member, or even a friend with you during these examinations. This will help reduce or eliminate misrepresentations.

Get The Private Disability Coverage You Deserve

These tips will help you increase your chances of winning a claim on appeal. If you feel that you are being taken advantage of or misrepresented, working with a disability insurance lawyer when filing an appeal is a smart option.