How long does an insurance appeal take

Internal appeals are usually the first step

Most insurers have a formal internal appeal process before any external review is available. Timelines vary by country and insurer, but most are required to acknowledge your appeal within a set number of days and issue a decision within 30 to 60 days. Check your denial letter — it should state the specific timeframe that applies to your policy.

External or independent review takes longer

If your internal appeal is unsuccessful, you may have the right to request an external independent review. This typically takes 30 to 90 days depending on jurisdiction. Urgent or expedited reviews — available for time-sensitive medical situations — can be much faster, sometimes within 72 hours. Again, your denial letter or the insurer’s appeals documentation should outline this process.

What slows appeals down

The most common cause of delay is incomplete documentation. If you submit an appeal without all the required supporting evidence, the insurer will either reject it or request additional information, resetting the clock. Submit everything at once: your written appeal, medical records, physician statements, and any policy references. A complete submission the first time is always faster.

How to track your appeal

Submit your appeal in writing and keep a copy of everything. If you submit by post, use tracked delivery. If you submit online, save the confirmation. Note the date of submission and calculate the deadline from there. If the insurer does not respond within their stated timeframe, that in itself may be grounds for escalation.

This article is general information, not legal, medical, immigration or financial advice.