Cigna denied claim appeal
Cigna · updated for 2026
Appeal in 4 steps
- 1Read the Cigna denial letter (EOB) and identify the cited medical policy.
- 2Request the full clinical policy bulletin from Cigna; ERISA plans must provide it free of charge.
- 3Gather office notes, imaging, prior therapy history, and a letter of medical necessity from your treating physician.
- 4Submit the appeal in writing to the address on the denial letter, by certified mail and through mycigna.com if available, within 180 days.
Key facts
| Internal appeal window | 180 days from denial |
|---|---|
| External review window | 120 days after final internal denial |
| Expedited appeal | Decision within 72 hours |
| Appeals address | Cigna National Appeals Unit, P.O. Box 188011, Chattanooga, TN 37422 |
| Phone | 1-800-244-6224 |
| Member portal | mycigna.com |
Submit appeals in writing within 180 days of the denial. Include the claim number, member ID, and a written statement of why the service should be covered.
Upload the denial letter. Get the cited policy identified, the evidence checklist, and a finished appeal letter you can sign.
Common Cigna denial reasons
- Not medically necessary
- Prior authorization required
- Step therapy not completed
- Out of network
- Service not covered
Evidence checklist
- ✓Denial letter (EOB)
- ✓Member ID and claim number
- ✓Treating physician letter of medical necessity
- ✓Office notes from the last 12 months
- ✓Imaging or lab reports
- ✓Cigna clinical policy bulletin (cited in denial)
- ✓Prior therapy history
- ✓Specialty guideline citation
FAQ
How long do I have to appeal a Cigna denial?+
180 days from the date of the denial to file an internal appeal. Expedited (urgent) appeals must be decided within 72 hours.
Where do I send a Cigna appeal?+
Use the address on your denial letter (the EOB). Addresses vary by plan and region; the denial letter is authoritative.
Can I appeal a Cigna denial without a lawyer?+
Yes. Most internal appeals are filed by the member or the treating physician. The appeal should cite the insurer's clinical policy and include a letter of medical necessity.
What happens after the internal appeal?+
If the final internal appeal is denied, you have 120 days to request external review by an Independent Review Organization. External review is binding on the insurer.