Finding out that your disability claim has been denied can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial strain of not being able to work. Whether your claim was through Social Security disability, Long Term disability (LTD), Short Term disability (STD), or Veterans Affairs, a denial doesn’t mean the end of the road. It’s often the beginning of the process.
At Osterhout Berger Daley, we’ve helped thousands of clients appeal disability denials and secure the benefits they deserve. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do if your claim was denied and how to protect your right to benefits.
Step 1: Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied
Start by reading your denial letter carefully. Every denial comes with a reason, and understanding that reason is critical to your next step. Common causes of denial include:
- Missing or incomplete medical documentation
- Lack of recent or ongoing treatment
- The insurer or agency believes you can still work
- Errors in paperwork or missed deadlines
- Technical disqualifications (like insufficient work credits for SSDI)
It’s also common for private insurers like MetLife, Mutual of Omaha, or The Hartford to deny claims for vague reasons related to policy language or a supposed lack of evidence.
Step 2: Don’t Reapply – Appeal Instead
It’s a common mistake to start over by submitting a new claim. But when you reapply, you lose the chance to build on your existing file and reset the clock on potential backpay.
Instead, file an appeal. Appeals allow you to strengthen your case, submit new evidence, and correct anything the claims examiner might have misunderstood.
The process and timeline for appealing vary based on the type of claim and whether it’s a private insurer, the Social Security Administration (SSA), or another agency. Important note: Deadlines can be short, sometimes just 30 or 60 days, and vary by policy and jurisdiction. Always act quickly.
Step 3: Keep Getting Medical Treatment
Whether your disability is physical, mental, or both, consistent medical treatment is one of the most essential parts of your case. When you stop seeing your doctor, the insurer may assume your condition has improved.
Continue attending appointments, following treatment plans, and asking your providers to document your symptoms and functional limitations in detail. If you can’t afford care, look for free clinics or ask about telehealth options.
Step 4: Document Everything
Start keeping a record of your symptoms, limitations, and daily challenges. A personal journal can be valuable supplemental evidence to support your medical records. Also, keep copies of:
- Appointment summaries
- Diagnostic test results
- Emails or letters from your insurer
- Your denial letter and appeal forms
Step 5: Know Your Rights Based on the Type of Disability Claim
Each type of disability benefit operates under a different system. Understanding what kind of claim you’re appealing will help you respond effectively.
Long Term Disability (LTD) Claims
These are typically filed through a group insurance policy provided by your employer. Policies from insures like MetLife, Mutual of Omaha, and The Hartford have specific terms and conditions that can be complex and difficult to interpret.
LTD policies are meant to replace your income while you cannot work, often until Social Security kicks in. But these insurers don’t always make it easy. They may deny benefits due to vague contract language, surveillance, or minimal evidence. This is where having a long term disability attorney can help you level the playing field.
Short Term Disability (STD) Claims
STD claims are often denied for reasons like “insufficient proof of disability” or “not meeting the elimination period.” If you’ve been denied by a company like The Hartford or MetLife, speak with a Short Term disability attorney who understands the tactics insurers use.
Insurance companies often rely on internal medical reviewers who never meet with you. Appealing that decision with help from a Short Term disability claim lawyer can make a difference.
Social Security Disability (SSDI)
Most initial SSDI claims are denied, but many denials are reversed on appeal. The appeal process generally includes these stages:
- Reconsideration
- Hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
- Appeals Council Review
- Federal Court
Each step gives you a new chance to provide evidence and tell your story. Legal representation at the ALJ level can dramatically improve your odds.
Step 6: Get Legal Help Early
You have a much better chance of winning your appeal when you work with a qualified disability law attorney. At OBD, we:
- Review your denial letter and records in detail
- Identify missing evidence or inconsistencies
- Help gather supporting documentation
- Communicate with doctors, insurers, or the SSA
- Prepare you for hearings and represent you throughout
We understand how Long Term disability insurance and coverage are supposed to work and how insurers may fail.
We also know the legal pressure points needed to compel fair reconsideration, especially from companies like MetLife, Mutual of Omaha, and The Hartford.
Step 7: Don’t Give Up
Denials are frustrating, but they’re not the final word. Many people give up too early because they don’t realize how common it is to be denied the first time.
Stay engaged in your care, stay organized, and reach out for help. Appeals take effort but are often successful, especially with proper support.
When to Call OBD
Whether your claim was with the SSA, a private insurer, or a combination of both, the disability lawyers at Osterhout Berger Daley are here to help. We’ve recovered over $500 million in client benefits across all disability claims.
We assist with:
- Appealing denied claims from MetLife, The Hartford, Mutual of Omaha, and other insurers
- Long Term and Short Term disability appeals
- SSDI and VA disability claims
- Filing federal court appeals if needed
Get the Help You Deserve
You don’t have to fight this alone. If your claim has been denied, contact us today for a free consultation.
Call 412-794-8003 or 1-866-438-8773 or fill out our secure intake form to get started.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Timelines and requirements vary by policy and jurisdiction. For personalized legal guidance, speak with a qualified disability attorney.