1. Always be prepared
Understanding and knowing the terms of your insurance policy will make it easier to file insurance claims. It doesn’t matter if your policy covers your life, home, auto, or health. Keep a detailed record of all your policies. You should keep a file for every policy that you have. You can place any documents (EOBs, policy updates, prior claims) related to the policy in that file.
Let’s take, for example, the case where you need to go to the hospital for a planned surgery. Check your benefits before you go. Talk to an insurance representative to learn more about what you can expect from your bills. You should know the names of doctors and hospitals that are covered by your policy. When you start to receive bills in your mail, you’ll be able match them with the explanations provided by your insurance company. Many times, people will be overbilled or have their doctor file an incorrectly. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid paying the wrong amount. It is unlikely that you’ll ever see your money again if you overpay.
2. Do it quickly
Insurance companies often have a time limit for filing claims. They are not required to pay any money if the deadline has expired. Give accurate information to the insurance company. Double-check all documents and contact information. Incorrect information can slow down the process. You will get your payment processed faster if you provide accurate and timely information.
3. Document.
It is important to keep track all documentation when filing insurance claims. Keep track of all paperwork, photos, and phone conversations. Do you remember the file that was created for your policies? You will keep all correspondence with the insurance company in this file. Keep photocopies, keep return receipts for mail communications from the postal service and fax coversheets. Keep a log of telephone conversations, including the date, time, and name of the person you were speaking to. Keep track of what was said and what the call resulted in.
4. Sometimes, no does not necessarily mean yes.
Make sure you have all documentation handy and write down everything you need to tell your insurance company about your claim. Be clear about what you need from your claim, what you are expecting and what you should get. Don’t be intimidated or pushed aside by the person on the other side of the line. Sometimes you may need to speak to multiple people to find the answers you seek. Sometimes, the information or estimates provided by third parties may not be accurate. Insurance companies make errors all the time. Don’t accept or pay for anything that isn’t right.
5. This case may not require filling.
It is not always in your best interests to file a claim on insurance policies such as auto and home insurance. An inquiry regarding a claim can count against you and cause an increase in your premium. Before you file a claim, it is a good idea to ask yourself some questions.
1. Was there any damage to the vehicle? You may have backed your car into something or been negligent in fixing a leaky pipe.
2. Who did the damage? 2. Who caused the damage?
3. Is the repair more expensive than my deductible?
Some people believe that repairs less than $1000 after your insurance deductible are not worth it. This is a common rule.
