What happens when Lincoln Financial denies your claim

When Lincoln Financial turns down a disability insurance claim, you receive a written denial letter that explains their reason. The letter includes the specific policy language they used to make the decision and tells you how long you have to challenge it. Most denials come down to one of three things: Lincoln says your condition does not meet the policy definition of disability, they believe you did not provide enough medical evidence, or they think you can still work in some capacity.

You have the right to dispute any denial. The appeal process is separate from the original claim review, meaning a different person or team will look at your case again. Lincoln is required by law to give you a real chance to submit new information and argue why their decision was wrong.

Key Takeaways

  • Your denial letter states the important date to appeal, which is usually 180 days from the date you received it.
  • You must submit your appeal in writing to the address or fax number listed in your denial letter, not to a general customer service line.
  • New medical records, test results, or statements from your doctor about why you cannot work strengthen an appeal far more than written arguments alone.
  • If Lincoln denies your appeal, you can file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner or pursue an external review through an independent medical reviewer.

The important date and where to send your appeal

Your denial letter includes a specific date by which you must file an appeal. This important date is typically 180 days from when you received the letter, though some policies allow longer. Do not assume you have a year or that the important date is flexible—missing it can close your right to challenge the decision.

Send your appeal to the exact address or fax number shown in your denial letter under "Appeal Instructions" or "How to Appeal." Do not email it to a general customer service address or call it in. Lincoln processes appeals through a dedicated department, and sending it to the wrong place can cause delays or result in your appeal being lost. Keep a copy of everything you send and get a confirmation number or receipt if you fax it.

What to include in your written appeal

Your appeal letter should be clear and direct. Start by stating that you are appealing the denial dated [date], reference your policy number, and briefly restate why you believe Lincoln's decision was wrong. If they said your condition does not meet the definition of disability in your policy, explain specifically why it does. If they said you can still work, explain why that conclusion contradicts what your doctors have told you.

The strongest appeals include new or updated medical evidence. Ask your treating physician for a detailed letter that addresses Lincoln's specific reason for denial. For example, if Lincoln said you can perform sedentary work, ask your doctor to explain in writing why even desk work is not possible for you given your condition, medications, or treatment schedule. Include recent test results, imaging reports, or therapy notes that support your case. If you have seen a specialist since your original claim, their records carry weight because they show ongoing professional assessment of your condition.

You can also include a statement from your employer or former employer describing what your job required and why you could not perform those duties. If you have tried to work since the denial and had to stop, document that attempt with dates and reasons.

Medical evidence that strengthens your appeal

Lincoln reviews appeals based largely on medical documentation. A single letter from your doctor saying "the patient cannot work" is less persuasive than a detailed report explaining the functional limitations caused by your condition. Ask your doctor to be specific: Can you sit for eight hours? Can you concentrate for two hours at a time? Can you lift ten pounds? Can you follow complex instructions? These concrete details matter because they connect your medical condition to the actual demands of work.

If your condition has worsened since your original claim, new medical records prove that. If you have started a new treatment or medication, include records showing how it affects your ability to function. If you have been hospitalized, had surgery, or undergone intensive therapy, those records demonstrate the severity of your condition. Bring copies of any test results that show objective findings—imaging, lab work, or diagnostic testing—rather than relying only on your description of symptoms.

What happens after you submit your appeal

Lincoln has a set timeframe to review and respond to your appeal, usually 30 to 60 days depending on your policy and whether you submitted all requested information. They will send you a written decision. If they overturn the denial, they will explain what changed and when benefits begin. If they uphold the denial, they will explain their reasoning again and tell you what options remain.

During the review period, stay in contact with your doctor and keep attending appointments. If your condition changes or you have new symptoms, document them. Do not assume the appeal is your only remaining option—there are steps you can take if Lincoln denies it again.

What to do if your appeal is denied

If Lincoln denies your appeal, you have two main paths forward. First, you can file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner. Every state has an insurance department that investigates complaints against insurance companies. You can file for free, and the commissioner's office will review whether Lincoln followed the law and their own policy. This process is slower than an appeal but can result in Lincoln being ordered to reconsider your claim.

Second, many disability policies include a right to external review. This means an independent medical reviewer—a doctor not employed by Lincoln—will look at your case. Ask Lincoln in writing whether your policy includes this right and what the process is. External review is not the same as going to court; it is a faster, less formal way to get a second medical opinion on whether you meet the disability definition.

If you believe Lincoln violated the law or acted in bad faith, you may also have grounds to pursue a lawsuit. This is a significant step and usually requires an attorney who specializes in disability insurance disputes. Many will review your case for free to determine whether you have a claim.

Common reasons Lincoln denies appeals and how to address them

Lincoln often denies appeals because the medical evidence does not clearly show that you cannot work in any occupation. If this was their reason, your appeal should focus on functional limitations. Do not argue that you feel too sick to work; instead, show through medical records that specific physical or mental limitations prevent you from performing any job. If you have a back injury, for example, include your doctor's statement about how long you can sit, stand, and walk, and what positions cause pain.

Another common reason is that Lincoln believes you can perform sedentary work even if you cannot do your former job. If this is their position, ask your doctor to address sedentary work specifically. Many people think sedentary work means sitting at a desk, but it also requires sustained concentration, the ability to follow instructions, and often interaction with others. If your condition affects any of these, your doctor should say so in writing.

Lincoln may also deny an appeal if you did not provide records from your treating physician. If your original claim included only your own description of symptoms, the appeal is your chance to get your doctor involved. A letter from the doctor who knows your condition is far more persuasive than anything you can write yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to appeal after Lincoln denies my claim?

Your denial letter states the exact important date, usually 180 days from the date you received it. Check the letter carefully and mark the important date on your calendar. If you miss it, you lose the right to appeal through Lincoln's internal process, though you may still be able to file a complaint with your state insurance commissioner.

Can I appeal more than once if Lincoln denies my first appeal?

Most policies allow only one internal appeal to Lincoln. After that, your options are external review (if your policy includes it), a complaint to your state insurance commissioner, or legal action. Ask Lincoln in your appeal denial letter whether you can file a second appeal or whether external review is available.

Should I hire a lawyer to help with my appeal?

Many people win appeals without a lawyer by submitting strong medical evidence. A lawyer is most useful if your case is complex, if you have already lost an appeal, or if you are considering legal action. Many disability attorneys work on contingency, meaning they take a percentage of any money recovered rather than charging upfront fees.

What if I do not have recent medical records to include with my appeal?

Contact your doctor's office and request all records from the past year, including office visit notes, test results, and any specialist reports. If you have not seen a doctor recently, schedule an appointment before submitting your appeal. A current medical evaluation is stronger evidence than old records, and it shows that your condition is ongoing and serious enough to warrant professional care.

Can Lincoln deny my appeal without reviewing the new evidence I submitted?

No. Lincoln is required by law to consider all evidence you submit with your appeal. If you believe they ignored medical records or other documentation, you can point this out in a complaint to your state insurance commissioner. Document what you sent and when, and keep copies of everything.