Appeal deadline calculator
Updated September 30, 2026 · How we write our guides
How it works
Appeal deadlines depend on your coverage. Most job-based and Marketplace plans give you 180 days from getting the denial. Original Medicare gives 120 days, Medicare Advantage gives 65 days, and Medicaid plans usually give 60 days. Enter the date on your notice to estimate yours, then confirm it on the notice itself.
How the deadlines are counted
| Coverage | First appeal | Counted from |
|---|---|---|
| Job-based, Marketplace, or individual plan | 180 days | The day you get the denial notice |
| Original Medicare | 120 days | The day you get the notice (assumed to be 5 days after the date on it) |
| Medicare Advantage | 65 days | The date on the plan's notice |
| Medicaid managed care plan | 60 days | The date on the plan's notice |
| Medicaid without a plan | Up to 90 days, set by your state | The date on the notice |
These are the general federal rules as of September 30, 2026. Your notice is the final word, and your plan may give you more time.
For the full process, see how to appeal a health insurance denial.
Common questions
What happens if I miss my appeal deadline?
Ask your plan whether you can still appeal. Many plans can accept a late appeal if you had a good reason, like an illness or not getting the notice. Explain what happened in writing. Don't assume it's too late until the plan tells you so, and keep a copy of everything you send.
Can I get a faster decision?
Yes, if waiting could seriously harm your health. Ask for an expedited, or fast, appeal. Your doctor can support the request. Plans must decide urgent appeals much faster than regular ones, often within days instead of weeks. The notice from your plan explains how to ask.
When do I ask for an external review?
For most job-based and Marketplace plans, you can ask for an external review after your plan turns down your internal appeal. You usually have 4 months from that final denial. An independent reviewer decides, and your plan must follow the decision.
Do you save the dates I enter?
No. The calculator runs in your browser. The dates you enter aren't saved, sent to Romi Care, or shared with anyone. When you close or refresh the page, they're gone. If you want a record, write the deadline on your denial notice and in your calendar.
Sources
- Internal appeals, HealthCare.gov. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- External review, HealthCare.gov. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- 42 CFR 405.942: Time frame for filing a request for a redetermination, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- Reconsideration by the Medicare Advantage (Part C) health plan, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Accessed September 30, 2026.
- 42 CFR 438.402: Grievance and appeal system, general requirements, Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Accessed September 30, 2026.
Related guides
This is general information, not legal or medical advice. Rules can depend on your plan and your state. Romi Care isn't an insurer, law firm, collection agency, or government program.