How to Claim Insurance (2025): Step-by-Step Process, Documents & Rejection Reasons
Learn the insurance claim process: how to file a claim, required documents, cashless vs reimbursement, and common reasons claims get delayed or rejected. Updated for 2025.
Claim process: goal
Filing an insurance claim is about notifying the insurer quickly, submitting correct documents, and following the policy’s steps. This guide covers a general process that applies to most insurance types.
Exact steps differ by policy (health, motor, life), but the fundamentals stay the same: timely intimation, accurate documents, and clear communication.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim Insurance
1) Inform the insurer immediately
Use customer care/app/email. Delays can complicate approvals.
2) Choose cashless vs reimbursement (if applicable)
For health/motor, cashless usually requires network providers. Reimbursement needs you to pay first and submit bills.
3) Submit documents
- Policy details + ID proof
- Incident/hospitalization documents, bills, and reports
- Claim form (as required)
4) Survey/verification (policy dependent)
Motor claims may require a surveyor inspection. Life claims may require additional verification.
5) Track status and respond to queries
If the insurer asks for clarifications, respond quickly with correct documents.
Tip
Keep digital copies of your policy, ID, and important documents. In emergencies, having files ready speeds up claims.
Reasons Claims Get Delayed or Rejected
- Late intimation or missing timeline requirements
- Non-disclosure of key information at purchase (especially health)
- Incomplete documents or mismatch in bills/reports
- Expenses outside policy scope or excluded conditions
Simple Claim Checklist
- Inform insurer quickly and get claim reference number
- Keep all originals (bills/reports) safely
- Submit accurate documents and respond to queries