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If your long term disability benefits have been denied or terminated, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. One of the most important things to understand is that you have a limited time to file an appeal. Whether your claim falls under ERISA (the federal law that governs most employer-sponsored disability plans) or is based on a private policy, the appeal process is often your last and best chance to secure the benefits you deserve without going to court.

If you鈥檙e navigating a claim denial, understanding your rights and how to protect them can make all the difference. Below we鈥檒l answer common questions about long term disability appeal deadlines and why it鈥檚 so important to make your appeal count. 

After submitting a long term disability (鈥淟TD鈥�) appeal through a group policy, a claimant may unexpectedly receive new reports or assessments from their insurer. These can include peer reviews, vocational evaluations, or other updated findings.

When this occurs, it鈥檚 often possible鈥攁nd important鈥攖o respond. Below, we鈥檒l explain when insurers issue new reports, what rights may apply under ERISA (the federal law that governs most group LTD policies), and how to approach this phase of the process effectively.

Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The rights described typically apply to ERISA-governed policies, which usually come through an employer. Individual policies are typically not subject to the same rules. 

If ERISA applies to your long term disability claim, you have the right to request and review your claim file in the event of a denial.  This is a critical right to exercise before filing your ERISA long term disability appeal.  Having the claim file will give you valuable insight as to why your insurer denied your claim.