How long do you have to appeal a denied claim?
The deadline to appeal a denied claim is the one part of the letter with a clock on it, so find it first.
CheckMyDenial team, patient billing and appeals. Published October 2026.
How long do I have to appeal a denied claim?
The deadline to appeal a denied claim is the number of days printed on your denial letter, counted from the date on the letter, and for many plans it is around 180 days.
The exact number is on your letter, and the clock starts at the date printed on it. File before it, even a short letter, to protect your rights. You can add detail later.
How do I protect my appeal deadline?
Find the date, write it down, and file something before it.
- Step 1: Find the deadline on your letter. It is usually under a heading such as How to appeal or Your rights, and it names where to send the appeal.
- Step 2: Circle it. It is a number of days from the date on the letter, and it is the only part of the letter with a clock on it.
- Step 3: File an internal appeal before it. A short letter filed before the deadline protects your rights now. You can add your provider's note and records afterward.
- Step 4: Ask for external review if they uphold the denial. If the insurer keeps its decision, you can usually take the denial to an independent reviewer who does not work for the insurer.
What if the deadline already passed?
Late is not always closed. Good-cause exceptions, reopening, and external review can still be on the table, so do not assume the door is shut. That assumption is exactly what the system counts on.
What is an external review?
An external review is a second look by an independent reviewer who does not work for your insurer, usually available after the insurer upholds its denial, and its decision is binding on the plan.
Can I get a faster decision if the care is urgent?
Yes. If waiting would seriously risk your health, you can request an expedited appeal, which is decided in days, not months.
Sources: HealthCare.gov: your right to internal appeal and external review. KFF: claims denials and appeals in ACA marketplace plans. More in the full appeal guide.
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