New Hampshire Insurance Denial Appeal Law at a Glance
Unfair Claims Practices
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §417:4(XV) — Unfair Claims Settlement Practices
Appeal Deadlines
- General claims: 60 days from denial
- Health insurance (ACA): 180 days internal appeal
- Prompt pay: Insurer must pay within 30 days
Bad Faith Remedies
New Hampshire allows bad faith insurance claims — compensatory damages available
External Review
New Hampshire Insurance Department external review for health plan denials
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §420-J:5-a et seq.
Where to File Complaints
- New Hampshire Insurance Department Consumer Services
- New Hampshire Attorney General Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau
Small claims limit: $10,000
Additional Protections
- Bad faith denial action available
- External review for health insurance denials
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New Hampshire Insurance Denial Appeal FAQ
How do I appeal an insurance claim denial in New Hampshire?
To appeal an insurance denial in New Hampshire: (1) Review the denial letter for the specific reason and deadline, (2) Send a formal appeal letter citing N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §417:4(XV) (Unfair Claims Settlement Practices), (3) Demand a complete explanation of the denial and copies of all documents considered, (4) Reference your right to file a complaint with the New Hampshire Insurance Department. Send via certified mail, return receipt requested.
How long do I have to appeal an insurance denial in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, the general appeal deadline for insurance claim denials is 60 days from the date of the denial letter. For health insurance claims, the ACA provides at least 180 days for internal appeals. Acting quickly is critical — missing the deadline can forfeit your right to appeal.
Can I sue my insurance company for bad faith denial in New Hampshire?
Yes. New Hampshire recognizes insurance bad faith claims. New Hampshire allows bad faith insurance claims — compensatory damages available. If your insurer unreasonably denied a valid claim, you may be entitled to damages beyond the claim amount.
What is the unfair claims settlement practices act in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire's unfair claims settlement practices are governed by N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §417:4(XV) (Unfair Claims Settlement Practices). This law prohibits insurance companies from failing to promptly investigate claims, denying claims without conducting a reasonable investigation, failing to provide clear explanations for denials, and other unfair practices.
Does New Hampshire have an external review process for insurance denials?
Yes. New Hampshire Insurance Department external review for health plan denials (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §420-J:5-a et seq.). External review allows an independent third party to review the insurer's denial decision. For health insurance, the ACA also provides federal external review rights.
Where do I file a complaint about an insurance denial in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, file complaints with: (1) New Hampshire Insurance Department Consumer Services, (2) New Hampshire Attorney General Consumer Protection and Antitrust Bureau. For health insurance, you can also contact the U.S. Department of Labor (ERISA plans) or HHS (ACA plans). For claims up to $10,000, you can file in New Hampshire small claims court.
Insurance Denial Appeal Letters by State
Select your state to see your specific protections.