That denial letter in your hand can feel final, but it’s really just the start of a conversation. When you have an insurance claim denied, the insurance company is counting on you to feel overwhelmed and simply walk away. They use complex policy language and strict procedures to their advantage. This guide is designed to level the playing field. We’ll demystify the process by explaining the most common reasons for denials, from simple paperwork errors to arguments over pre-existing damage. More importantly, we’ll give you a clear, actionable checklist for building a strong appeal that gets their attention and shows them you’re serious about your claim.

Key Takeaways

Understand the “Why” Behind the Denial: Your denial letter is your roadmap. Use the specific reasons the insurer provides to build a targeted, evidence-based appeal that directly counters their argument.
Documentation Is Your Strongest Tool: A well-organized file with photos, repair estimates, expert reports, and a log of every conversation transforms your appeal from a simple request into a powerful, fact-based case.
Know When to Call for Backup: You have the right to legal help. If your claim is complex, high-value, or you suspect the insurer is delaying or acting unfairly, an attorney can step in to manage the fight and protect your interests.

Why Was Your Claim Denied?

Getting that denial letter from your insurance company is incredibly frustrating. You pay your premiums on time, and you expect them to be there for you when you need them. But a denial isn’t always the final word. It’s a roadblock, not necessarily the end of the road. Insurance companies have a long list of reasons for rejecting claims, and many of them are designed to protect their bottom line, not yours. Understanding why your claim was denied is the first step toward building a strong appeal and fighting for the compensation you deserve. Before you can challenge their decision, you need to know what you’re up against. From complex policy language to simple paperwork errors, the reason for your denial will shape your next steps. Let’s break down some of the most common reasons insurers give for saying “no” to a property damage claim.

Gaps in Your Policy Coverage

One of the most frequent reasons for a denial is that the specific damage isn’t covered under your policy. Insurance policies are detailed contracts, and the “fine print” can be full of exclusions and specific definitions that aren’t always clear. For example, your policy might cover collision damage but have specific exclusions for certain types of incidents or aftermarket parts. The insurer will use these policy limitations to argue they don’t have to pay. It’s essential to review your policy documents carefully to understand exactly what is and isn’t included in your insurance coverage.

Missing or Incomplete Paperwork

Sometimes, a claim denial comes down to a simple clerical error. Insurance companies handle a massive volume of paperwork, and even a small mistake can bring the process to a halt. This could be anything from a missing signature on a form to an incorrect billing code from the repair shop or a failure to provide requested documentation in a timely manner. While it seems minor, the insurer will use any missing piece of information as a reason to issue a denial. The good news is that these types of issues are often the easiest to fix once you identify what’s missing.

Filing Errors and Missed Deadlines

The insurance claim process is governed by strict timelines. From the moment the accident happens, there’s a deadline for reporting the incident, submitting your claim, and providing any follow-up documentation. If you miss one of these critical deadlines, the insurance company can deny your claim on procedural grounds, regardless of its merit. They won’t care if you had a valid reason for the delay. This is why it’s so important to act quickly after an accident and to keep track of every communication and deadline. If you’re unsure about the timeline, it’s always best to contact a professional for guidance.

Pre-Existing Vehicle Damage

Insurance companies will look for any reason to minimize their payout, and pre-existing damage is a common excuse. If your car had a few dings or an old, unrepaired scratch before the accident, the insurer might argue that the damage you’re claiming now wasn’t entirely caused by the recent incident. They may try to deny the claim or significantly reduce the settlement offer by attributing some of the damage to a prior event. Proving the full extent of the new damage and its impact on your car’s value is crucial in these situations, especially when filing a diminished value claim.

Your First Steps After a Claim Denial

Getting a denial letter from your insurance company is incredibly frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Think of it as the starting point for building your case. Before you do anything else, taking a few organized, intentional steps can set you up for a successful appeal. This is your chance to understand the insurer’s position and gather the evidence you need to challenge it effectively. Don’t let the initial “no” discourage you. Instead, use it as motivation to get organized and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, remember that you can always contact a professional for guidance.

Read Your Denial Letter Carefully

Your first move is to sit down and read the denial letter from top to bottom. This document is more than just a rejection; it’s the insurance company’s official explanation for their decision. Look for the specific reasons they list for the denial—they are required to provide them. The letter will likely reference certain exclusions or conditions in your policy. Understanding their argument is the only way to build a strong counter-argument. This is especially important for complex claims, where a clear understanding of concepts like diminished value can make all the difference in spotting a weak justification for a denial.

Ask the Insurance Company for an Explanation

After reading the letter, call your insurance adjuster and ask for a clear, detailed explanation. Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions. Say, “Can you walk me through the exact part of my policy that led to this denial?” or “What specific information was missing from my claim?” Sometimes, the denial is due to a simple misunderstanding or a missing document that you can easily provide. A direct conversation can clarify the insurer’s position and give you a better idea of what you need to do to move forward with an appeal.

Collect All Your Documents

Now it’s time to gather your evidence. Create a dedicated file for everything related to your accident and claim. This includes the police report, photos and videos of the vehicle damage, repair estimates from multiple body shops, and a copy of your insurance policy. If you have any correspondence with the insurance company, like emails or notes from phone calls, add those to the file as well. Having all your documentation organized in one place will make the appeals process much smoother and demonstrates that you are serious about pursuing your claim.

Keep a Record of Every Conversation

From this point forward, document every single interaction you have with the insurance company. Start a log in a notebook or a digital document. For every phone call, write down the date, the time, the name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of what was discussed. If you send an email, save a copy. This detailed record creates a timeline of your claim and can be invaluable evidence if you encounter delays or conflicting information. This level of organization is a key part of the legal services we provide, as it holds insurance companies accountable.

How to Appeal a Denied Insurance Claim

Receiving a denial letter from your insurance company can feel like hitting a brick wall. It’s frustrating, but it’s important to know this isn’t necessarily the final word. You have the right to challenge the decision. An appeal is your formal request for the insurer to take a second look at your claim, and it’s a process that often yields results when handled correctly. With a clear strategy and the right documentation, you can build a strong case for why your claim should be approved. The key is to be organized, persistent, and methodical in your approach. Think of it not as a fight, but as a process of presenting your side of the story with clear, undeniable facts. Many people simply accept the initial denial, but pushing back is a standard part of dealing with insurance. By following a few key steps, you can confidently present your case and show the insurance company why they should reconsider their decision. Understanding the official appeals process is the first step toward getting the compensation you deserve.

Know the Appeals Timeline

The first thing you need to do after reading your denial letter is look for the deadline to appeal. Insurance companies have strict time limits, sometimes as short as 30 to 60 days, and if you miss that window, you could lose your chance to contest the decision. Find the date, circle it on your calendar, and set a reminder. Acting quickly is one of the most critical parts of the process. This timeline is not a suggestion; it’s a hard deadline. Don’t wait until the last minute to gather your documents or write your letter. Give yourself plenty of time to build a thorough and compelling appeal without the stress of a looming deadline.

Write a Strong Appeal Letter

Your appeal letter is the foundation of your case. Start by carefully reviewing the denial letter to understand the exact reason your claim was rejected. Your response should directly address that reason. Write a formal, professional letter explaining why you believe the denial was incorrect. Refer to specific language in your policy that supports your claim and clearly list the evidence you’re including. Keep your tone factual and calm; the goal is to present a logical argument, not an emotional one. Attach copies (never originals!) of all your supporting documents, like repair estimates, photos, and expert reports, to back up your points. This is a critical step in any property damage claim.

Submit Your Appeal the Right Way

How you submit your appeal is just as important as what’s in it. Don’t just drop it in a standard mailbox. Send your appeal letter and all its attachments using a method that provides proof of delivery, like certified mail with a return receipt. This creates a paper trail and confirms that the insurance company received your documents and when. Before you send it off, make a complete copy of the entire package for your own records. Following the proper submission process ensures your appeal is officially logged and prevents the insurer from claiming they never received it. This simple step protects you and strengthens your position throughout the process.

What Paperwork Do You Need to Strengthen Your Appeal?

When you’re appealing a denied claim, your best friend is documentation. Think of yourself as building a case—the more solid evidence you have, the stronger your position becomes. An appeal without proof is just an opinion, and insurance companies are experts at dismissing those. Your goal is to present a clear, fact-based argument that leaves no room for doubt. This means gathering every relevant piece of paper, every photo, and every expert report that supports your claim. It might feel like a lot of work, but being organized and thorough at this stage can make all the difference. A well-documented appeal shows the insurer that you’re serious and prepared to fight for what you’re owed.

Repair Estimates and Invoices

Start by collecting every document related to the cost of your repairs. This includes the initial estimates you received from different body shops, the final, itemized invoice from the shop that completed the work, and any receipts for related expenses, like a rental car. These documents are concrete proof of your financial losses. An itemized invoice is particularly powerful because it breaks down the cost of every part and all the labor involved, making it difficult for the insurance company to argue with the numbers. This paperwork forms the financial foundation of your property damage claim.

Photos and Videos of the Damage

A picture is truly worth a thousand words, especially in an insurance appeal. Visual evidence can show the extent of the damage in a way that a simple description cannot. Gather clear, well-lit photos and videos of your vehicle from multiple angles, taken immediately after the accident if possible. You should also have “after” photos to show the quality of the repairs. This visual timeline helps demonstrate the severity of the impact and validates the necessity of the repairs listed on your invoices. Keep these files organized and ready to submit with your appeal letter.

Expert Opinions (Like a Diminished Value Report)

Sometimes, you need a professional to back you up. An independent expert opinion can be incredibly persuasive. The most critical piece of evidence in these cases is often a diminished value report. This is an official appraisal from a certified expert that calculates the loss in your car’s market value due to its accident history—even after it has been perfectly repaired. An insurer might try to downplay this loss or use a generic formula to calculate it. A detailed report from a credible third party provides an unbiased, data-driven assessment that is much harder for them to ignore.

Your Insurance Policy and All Correspondence

Your appeal starts with the denial letter. Read it carefully to understand the exact reason your claim was denied. Next, pull out your full insurance policy and highlight the sections that cover your specific situation. You also need a complete record of every interaction you’ve had with the insurance company. This includes copies of all emails and letters, plus detailed notes from every phone call—write down the date, time, the name of the person you spoke with, and a summary of the conversation. This meticulous record-keeping creates a clear timeline and demonstrates your diligence. If you need help making sense of your policy, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.

How to Talk to the Insurance Company

Communicating with an insurance company after a claim denial can feel like a chess match. Your goal is to be strategic, clear, and persistent. The way you handle these conversations can directly impact the outcome of your appeal, so it’s important to approach them with a plan. Insurance adjusters handle hundreds of claims; your job is to make yours stand out for all the right reasons.

This means keeping your emotions in check and focusing on the facts. Every phone call and email is an opportunity to build your case. Remember, you have the right to understand exactly why your claim was denied and to present evidence that challenges that decision. The following steps will help you manage these interactions effectively, ensuring your voice is heard and your claim gets the fair review it deserves. If you ever feel overwhelmed or believe the insurer isn’t treating you fairly, know that you can always seek legal representation to handle these conversations for you.

Put Everything in Writing

After any phone call with the insurance company, send a follow-up email summarizing the conversation. This creates a written record of what was discussed, who you spoke to, and the date of the interaction. A paper trail is your best friend in an insurance dispute. It eliminates any “he said, she said” confusion and provides concrete evidence if you need to escalate your appeal. Many claims that are initially denied can be overturned with a well-documented appeal. Your written records—from emails to certified letters—form the backbone of that appeal, showing you’ve been diligent, organized, and serious about your claim from the start.

Be Clear and Professional

It’s easy to get frustrated when you’re talking to an adjuster, but maintaining a calm and professional tone is crucial. Before you call, have your claim number and a short list of questions or points ready. During the conversation, speak clearly and stick to the facts of your case. Ask the representative to explain the specific reason for the denial and what information they need to reconsider the decision. Always write down the name and title of the person you speak with, along with the date and a summary of the call. This approach shows the insurer you are organized and serious, making them more likely to give your case the attention it warrants.

Follow Up Regularly

Don’t let your claim fall through the cracks. After you submit your appeal or provide new documents, set a reminder to follow up. A good rule of thumb is to check in every week or two. A simple, polite email or phone call asking for a status update is all it takes. This persistence shows the insurance company that you are actively managing your claim and expect a resolution. Keep a log of every interaction in a dedicated notebook or digital file. This organized record is invaluable, especially if your appeal process becomes lengthy or you need to bring in an attorney to help with your case.

Escalate to a Supervisor When Necessary

If you feel the claims adjuster isn’t being helpful or you’ve hit a wall, don’t be afraid to ask to speak with a supervisor or manager. A fresh set of eyes can sometimes make all the difference. Explain the situation calmly and clearly, outlining the steps you’ve already taken and why you believe your claim deserves another look. If you still don’t get a satisfactory response, you may need to escalate the issue further. This could involve filing a formal complaint with your state’s insurance department or seeking legal advice to understand your next steps. An experienced attorney can help you determine the best path forward.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Your Appeal

When you’re fighting a denied claim, it’s easy to make a misstep that can hurt your chances of a successful appeal. The insurance company’s process can feel confusing, and a simple oversight can send you right back to square one. But by being aware of the most common pitfalls, you can build a much stronger case. Think of this as your roadmap to sidestepping the most frequent errors people make when they’re in your exact position. It’s all about being prepared, organized, and strategic from the very beginning. Let’s walk through what to watch out for so you can present your appeal with confidence.

Missing Important Deadlines

This is one of the easiest and most costly mistakes to make. Insurance companies operate on strict timelines, and there are firm deadlines for filing an appeal and, if necessary, a lawsuit. If you miss a deadline, you could lose your right to challenge the denial altogether, no matter how strong your case is. The clock starts ticking the moment you receive that denial letter. Pay close attention to the dates mentioned in the correspondence from the insurer. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about the timeline, it’s always better to act quickly. Don’t let a technicality prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve.

Misunderstanding Why Your Claim Was Denied

You can’t build a successful appeal if you don’t know what you’re appealing. Your denial letter is the key—it should state the specific reason your claim was rejected. Read it carefully, more than once if you have to. Is the insurer claiming a gap in your coverage, disputing the cause of the damage, or pointing to a filing error? Understanding their exact reasoning is the first and most critical step in forming your counter-argument. If the letter is vague or full of confusing jargon, don’t be afraid to call and ask for a clear explanation. You need to know precisely what point you need to disprove.

Sending Incomplete Paperwork

A successful appeal is built on solid evidence. Submitting an appeal with missing documents or incomplete information is like trying to build a house with half the materials—it just won’t stand up. Even small errors, like an incorrect policy number or a missing estimate, can cause delays or another denial. Gather all your supporting documents before you submit anything. This includes repair estimates, invoices, photos and videos of the damage, and any correspondence with the insurer. A professional diminished value report can also be a powerful piece of evidence to include. Double-check every form to ensure it’s filled out completely and accurately.

Not Following the Appeals Process

Insurance companies have a formal, step-by-step process for appeals, and you have to follow it exactly. Your denial letter should outline how to submit your appeal, who to send it to, and what information to include. Deviating from this process can give the insurer a reason to dismiss your appeal without even reviewing its merits. For example, they might require you to submit your appeal through a specific online portal or send it via certified mail. Pay close attention to these instructions. The insurance company is required to tell you how their process works, so use that information to your advantage and follow their rules to the letter.

Know Your Rights After a Claim Denial

Receiving a denial letter from your insurance company can feel like hitting a brick wall. It’s frustrating and easy to feel powerless, but it’s important to remember that their “no” is not necessarily the final answer. As a policyholder, you have a set of rights designed to protect you and ensure you get a fair review. Understanding these rights is the first step toward successfully challenging a denial and getting the compensation you’re owed. Let’s walk through exactly what you’re entitled to do next.

Your Right to Appeal

You absolutely have the right to formally challenge the insurance company’s decision. This process is called an appeal, and it’s your official request for them to take a second look at your claim. Think of it as your chance to present your case again, this time with more evidence and a clearer argument. The denial letter itself should outline the specific steps and deadlines for filing an appeal. It’s a standard procedure, and you shouldn’t feel intimidated about using it. An appeal signals to the insurer that you don’t agree with their assessment and are prepared to fight for a fair outcome.

Your Right to an External Review

If your internal appeal with the insurance company doesn’t work out, you may have another powerful option: an external review. This means you can have an independent, third-party organization review your claim and the insurer’s denial. This takes the decision out of the hands of the company that denied you and puts it before a neutral evaluator. The rules for this process can vary, so it’s a good idea to understand the specific guidelines in Georgia. The Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire is a great resource for learning more about how independent reviews work and if your case qualifies for one.

Your Right to Your Complete Claim File

Transparency is not optional for an insurance company; it’s required. You have the right to see everything in your claim file. This includes the adjuster’s notes, expert reports, internal communications, and any other documentation they used to make their decision. Requesting your file is a critical step because it allows you to see the exact reasoning behind the denial. Did they rely on an inaccurate report? Did they overlook a key piece of evidence? Getting your hands on this information is essential for building a strong, evidence-based appeal and understanding what you’re up against.

Your Right to Hire a Lawyer

You never have to face the insurance company alone. You always have the right to hire an attorney to represent you. This is especially important if the denial reason is complex, you suspect the insurer is acting in bad faith, or a significant amount of money is at stake. An experienced attorney knows how to dissect a denial letter, gather the right evidence, and handle all communication with the insurer. A firm that specializes in property damage claims can take the pressure off you and aggressively advocate on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected throughout the entire appeals process.

When Is It Time to Call an Attorney?

Handling a property damage claim on your own can feel empowering at first, but it can quickly become a frustrating, uphill battle. You’ve followed all the steps, submitted your paperwork, and patiently waited, only to be met with a denial or a lowball offer. It’s easy to feel discouraged and wonder if it’s even worth the fight. While you can certainly manage the initial appeal process yourself, there are specific moments when bringing in a legal professional is the smartest move you can make. Think of it as knowing when to call for backup. An experienced attorney understands the tactics insurance companies use and can step in to level the playing field. They handle the aggressive negotiations and complex legal arguments so you don’t have to. If you feel like you’re in over your head, that the insurance company isn’t taking you seriously, or that you’re simply not getting straight answers, that’s a clear sign it might be time to get help. An attorney isn’t just for lawsuits; they’re your advocate, ensuring your rights are protected and that you get the full compensation you deserve for your vehicle’s damage and loss in value. They can review your policy, assess the true cost of your damages, and communicate with the insurer in a language they understand, making it clear that you won’t be pushed around.

If Your Case Is Complicated

Is the insurance adjuster pointing to confusing clauses in your policy? Are there multiple vehicles involved, or is the question of fault unclear? These are signs of a complicated case. Insurance companies often use complexity as a reason to deny claims, citing things like incorrect paperwork or specific policy exclusions. If your claim involves more than a simple fender-bender and you’re getting tangled in red tape, it’s a good time to consult an attorney. A legal expert can cut through the confusion, identify the key issues, and build a clear, strong case on your behalf. They know how to handle the details that can make or break an appeal, ensuring nothing gets missed.

If the Insurer Is Acting in Bad Faith

You pay your premiums on time and expect your insurance company to hold up its end of the bargain when you need it. If you suspect your insurer is deliberately making things difficult, you might be dealing with “bad faith.” This happens when an insurance company unfairly denies, delays, or underpays a claim without a valid reason. Examples include refusing to conduct a thorough investigation, ignoring evidence you provide, or dragging out the process for months. If your gut tells you something isn’t right and the insurer seems to be actively working against you, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. These are serious situations, and our team is experienced in handling these types of property damage claims.

When a Lot of Money Is on the Line

The more your claim is worth, the more incentive the insurance company has to deny it or offer you less than you deserve. This is especially true for significant repairs or a diminished value claim, which compensates you for the loss in your car’s resale value after an accident. When thousands of dollars are at stake, the fight gets tougher. Bringing in an attorney shows the insurance company that you are serious about recovering the full amount you’re owed. An expert can accurately assess the true value of your claim and has the negotiation skills to fight for a fair settlement, protecting your financial interests when it matters most.

How Gastley Law Can Fight for You

If you’re facing a denied claim, you don’t have to accept it and walk away. Gastley Law can step in when the reason for your denial is vague, when the insurer is ignoring your evidence, or when your own appeal attempts have failed. We take over the communication, manage the deadlines, and build a powerful case backed by solid evidence. Our goal is to take the stress off your shoulders and fight for the compensation you are rightfully owed. You’ve been through enough with the accident; let us handle the insurance company. If you’re ready for an expert to take up your cause, contact us to see how we can help.

Spotting Bad Faith Insurance Practices

Most of the time, a claim denial is just a disagreement over the facts or policy details. But sometimes, it’s a sign of something more serious. “Bad faith” is a legal term for when an insurance company fails to uphold its end of the contract with you. This isn’t just about offering a low settlement; it’s about using unfair, deceptive, or unreasonable tactics to avoid paying a legitimate claim. Insurance companies have a duty to treat you fairly, and when they don’t, they may be acting in bad faith.

Recognizing these practices is the first step toward protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve. An insurer acting in bad faith might intentionally delay your claim, conduct a biased investigation, or refuse to give you basic information. These actions are designed to frustrate you into giving up or accepting a fraction of what you’re owed. If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to seek specialized legal representation to hold them accountable. Let’s look at some of the most common red flags.

Unreasonable Delays

While every claim takes time to process, there’s a big difference between a standard timeline and a deliberate stall tactic. If your adjuster is ignoring your calls and emails, repeatedly asking for documents you’ve already sent, or dragging the process out for weeks or months without a clear reason, that’s a problem. Insurance companies know that there are strict time limits for appealing claims and filing lawsuits. By delaying, they might be hoping you’ll miss a critical deadline, forcing you to abandon your claim. Always document every phone call, email, and letter, including the date and time of the interaction. This paper trail is crucial if you need to prove the insurer is intentionally slowing things down.

A Poor or Biased Investigation

Your insurance company is required to conduct a prompt, fair, and thorough investigation of your claim. A bad faith investigation is one that seems designed to find any excuse for a denial. This can look like the adjuster ignoring clear evidence you’ve provided (like photos or repair estimates), refusing to interview witnesses, or relying solely on a biased appraiser who consistently lowballs damage assessments. While claims can be denied for legitimate reasons like incorrect paperwork, a fair investigation should weigh all the evidence objectively. If the insurer seems to be looking for reasons to say no instead of trying to find the truth, it’s a major red flag, especially when it comes to calculating your vehicle’s diminished value.

Refusing to Share Information About Your Claim

You have a right to be kept in the loop about your claim. If your insurer is being secretive, it’s often because they don’t want you to know what’s really going on. This includes refusing to provide a clear, written explanation for why your claim was denied, misrepresenting the terms of your policy, or denying your request for a copy of your complete claim file. By law, your insurance company must tell you in writing the exact reason for the denial and explain how you can appeal their decision. If they refuse to give you straight answers or are intentionally vague, they are not acting in good faith. When an insurer stops communicating, it’s a clear sign that you need help. If you’re being stonewalled, it’s time to contact us for a case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

My insurance company denied my claim. Is their decision final? Not at all. Think of a denial letter as the insurance company’s opening position, not the end of the conversation. You have the right to formally appeal their decision. A denial is often just the first step in a negotiation process, and it’s your opportunity to build a stronger case with clear evidence to show them why their initial assessment was wrong.

How long do I have to fight a denied claim? This is time-sensitive, so you need to act quickly. Your denial letter should state the specific deadline for filing an appeal, which can sometimes be as short as 30 days. Find that date immediately and mark it on your calendar. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to challenge the decision, so it’s critical to start gathering your documents and writing your appeal letter right away.

What’s the single most effective piece of evidence I can use in my appeal? While photos and repair invoices are essential, an independent expert opinion is often the most powerful tool you can have. For vehicle damage, this is typically a professional diminished value report. This document provides an unbiased, data-driven assessment of your car’s loss in value from a certified expert. It’s much harder for an insurance company to argue with a credible third-party report than it is to dismiss your own opinion.

The insurance adjuster is ignoring my calls. What should I do? If you’re being met with silence, it’s time to switch your strategy from phone calls to written communication. Send a polite but firm follow-up email summarizing your previous attempts to connect and restating your questions. If you still don’t get a response, send a formal letter via certified mail. This creates a paper trail they can’t ignore. If that doesn’t work, your next step is to ask to speak directly with a supervisor.

Do I really need to hire an attorney, or can I handle this myself? You can certainly handle the initial appeal on your own, but it’s time to call for professional help if you hit a wall. Consider hiring an attorney if your case is complex, if a large amount of money is at stake, or if you suspect the insurer is acting in bad faith by using delay tactics or refusing to provide information. An attorney steps in to level the playing field and shows the insurance company you won’t be pushed around.

Insurance Claim Denied? Here’s Your Action Plan