After being denied long-term disability benefits in DC, your appeal is critical.
If you received a denial or termination letter from your long-term disability insurance company, reach out to us at Donahoe Kearney. We’ll review the letter and provide you with a free, confidential, 5-point plan for your appeal. This is just the start, but it can help you take the right steps.
The Denial Letter Should Be Specific
Your insurance company must explain why they denied or terminated your benefits. This might include:
- A “peer review” by a doctor who has never examined you but claims you can return to work.
- Policy terms like “no longer disabled under the policy” or “does not fit the definition of disabled.”
- Vocational evidence suggesting you could work a different job.
- Surveillance evidence they claim contradicts your doctor’s restrictions.
Understanding their reasoning is the first step to building your appeal.
Steps to Take After a Denial
- Mark Your Calendar
You likely have 180 days to file your appeal. Missing this deadline could mean losing your chance to fight the decision. - Request Your Claim File
The insurance company must provide this, but be specific when asking for it. For our clients, we ask for 28 categories of information to ensure nothing is missed. - Request Your Medical Records
Gather records from every provider you’ve seen for the condition or injury keeping you from working. These are critical for your appeal. - Talk to Your Doctor
Make sure your doctor understands the policy’s definitions of disability and how your condition fits. Their input is vital to your appeal. - Send Us the Denial Letter
We’ll review it and give you a clear, free 5-point plan to get started on your appeal. While this doesn’t guarantee representation, it sets you on the right path.
Don’t Wait to Act
Appealing a long-term disability denial is time-sensitive and complex. By taking the right steps now, you can strengthen your case and protect your benefits. If you’d like help, reach out to Donahoe Kearney today. We make it easy for you. Schedule a time to talk or simply call us at (202) 393-3320 to get started.