My CPP Disability Application Was Denied–What Next? (Part 2)

We’ve been talking about CPP Disability on our blog over the past few weeks. Today’s post is Part 2 on the topic of dealing with a denied application for CPP Disability.

How do I request a reconsideration of a denied application for CPP Disability?

As we discussed in our last post, the first step in getting a denied application overturned is to apply to Service Canada to have it reconsidered.

Although it is frustrating to have your application denied, it’s important to try to stay calm and handle this next step with care and attention. Regardless of whether you are confident or unsure of your chances of success, you should try your hardest to prepare the best case you possibly can.

First, carefully read the decision letter from Service Canada and take note of why your application was denied. It can be emotionally difficult to accept what Service Canada says are the weaknesses in your application, but these will be the issues you’ll need to address in your Request for Reconsideration.

It’s also a good idea to obtain a copy of your CPP Disability application file, as it contains documents you likely have not seen–such as  forms from your doctor or other healthcare providers, and the in-depth notes from the medical adjudicator who reviewed your case. You can request your file by sending in an Info Source: Personal Information Request Form.

You’ll need to request the reconsideration within 90 days of receiving your decision letter. Your request needs to be in writing, either by submitting a special form [Request for Reconsideration of a Canada Pension Plan Disability Decision form (ISP-1145)] or in a letter that includes the required information.

Important!!  If you are waiting for information, tests, medical appointments, etc., that will help build your case, you don’t need to wait for them to submit your Request for Reconsideration. Provide a description of the documents or appointments you’re waiting for, along with the scheduled or expected date you will have them, in the form or in your letter.

Tips for the reconsideration request process

You can and should take the opportunity to submit new or updated medical information along with your request for reconsideration. One of the most important things here is to have your doctor address the weaknesses that are identified in the denial letter from Service Canada. Remember, you don’t have to wait to receive medical records or for upcoming appointments to occur before sending in your request.

Be sure to make copies of any forms, medical records, letters, etc., that you send to Service Canada, and keep them organized in a safe place. It’s also helpful to keep a log with notes about all your communications with Service Canada. Write down the name of the person you talked to, what you talked about, and the date and time. You can do the same for medical appointments.

If you think you will have trouble meeting the deadline, communicate your intention to request a reconsideration to Service Canada in writing.

What happens next?

The review will be undertaken by Service Canada staff who weren’t involved in the original decision on your application.

Service Canada is supposed to provide a decision within 4 months (120 days) from the time they have received all of your information. If it takes longer than this, you can call Service Canada to ask for an update.

If you receive Service Canada’s reconsideration decision and they reject your application again, you still have the option to appeal to the Social Services Tribunal – General Division within 90 calendar days.