What Is the First Step in Appealing a Denial From The Standard?
If The Standard has denied your long-term disability (LTD) claim, you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. Many claimants receive a denial letter even when they truly cannot work. The appeals process is your chance to correct errors, strengthen your record, and give your claim the best possible shot at approval. DarrasLaw can help you with your appeal if you find yourself with a claim denial from The Standard.
Step 1: Carefully Review Your Denial Letter
The first and most important step is to read your denial letter from The Standard in full, line by line. This document controls your entire appeal strategy. It explains:
- Why your claim was denied
- What evidence The Standard used
- What evidence they believe is missing
- Deadlines for filing your appeal (usually 180 days)
- Your rights under ERISA (if your policy is employer-provided)
Most policyholders skim the letter or jump straight into gathering medical records—but understanding the insurer’s reasoning is crucial. Your entire appeal is built around addressing the issues raised in the denial.
Why This Step Matters
Under ERISA, the administrative record closes after your final appeal. That means:
- You must submit all medical evidence, expert reports, and documentation before the appeal deadline.
- If you sue later, the court will rely only on what’s in the record now.
- Missing evidence now can cost you your case down the line.
- Your denial letter tells you exactly what gaps you need to fill.
What to Look For in The Standard’s Denial Letter
1. The Stated Reason for Denial
Common reasons include:
- “Insufficient medical evidence”
- “No objective findings”
- “Lack of functional impairment”
- “Condition does not meet the policy definition of disability”
- “Surveillance suggests greater ability than reported”
- “Your doctor did not provide requested records”
2. Policy Definitions They Rely On
The Standard may cite:
- Own occupation vs. any occupation definitions
- Specific exclusions
- Waiting period requirements
- Limitations for mental health or subjective symptoms
Understanding these definitions helps you target your evidence.
3. Medical Opinions Used Against You
Often included:
- Paper reviews by The Standard’s in-house physicians
- IME (Independent Medical Exam) findings
- Nurse reviewer summaries
These are not always accurate and often lack full context.
4. Deadlines and Submission Instructions
Missing the deadline—even by one day—can permanently bar your appeal.
After You Review the Letter, What Comes Next?
Once you’ve reviewed your denial letter in detail, your next steps should include:
1. Getting Your Full Claim File
This includes all notes, medical reviews, adjuster communications, and internal memos. You have a legal right to it under ERISA, and it’s essential to understand everything The Standard considered.
2. Working With Your Doctors
You’ll need:
- Updated medical records
- Functional capacity evaluations
- Detailed physician statements
- Evidence addressing every issue in the denial letter
3. Correcting the Record
Your appeal should include:
- Updated imaging or objective tests (if relevant)
- Vocational evidence
- Witness statements
- Symptom logs
4. Writing a Strong Appeal Letter
Your appeal should directly rebut The Standard’s findings, supported by medical and vocational evidence.
Why Work With a Disability Attorney?
Appealing a denial from The Standard is high-stakes. Courts give insurers the benefit of the doubt under ERISA—meaning a well-prepared appeal is absolutely critical.
An experienced attorney can help by:
- Interpreting the denial letter’s legal and medical language
- Identifying missing evidence
- Coordinating supportive doctor statements
- Drafting a comprehensive appeal that anticipates future litigation
- Ensuring you meet all deadlines
- Preventing mistakes that weaken your claim later
Many firms handle these appeals on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
FAQs About Appealing a Denial From The Standard
1. How long do I have to file my appeal?
Most people have 180 days, but your denial letter will list the exact deadline.
2. Can I just send the missing medical records?
You can—but you shouldn’t. You need a full, well-supported appeal. A partial submission can hurt you later.
3. Do I need an attorney to appeal?
You’re not required to, but ERISA appeals are complex. A lawyer significantly strengthens your case.
4. What if The Standard denies my appeal?
You may have the right to file an ERISA lawsuit in federal court, but only the evidence already in your claim file can be used.
5. Should I talk to The Standard directly?
Be cautious. Anything you say may be used against you. Most people benefit from letting an attorney handle communications.
The first step in appealing a denial from The Standard is simple but crucial: carefully review your denial letter. This document shapes your entire appeal and determines what evidence you must gather next.
If your claim was denied, you still have a strong chance to overturn the decision—especially with a strategic, evidence-based appeal.