What is a Travel Insurance Claim?

How to File A Travel Insurance Claim

Filing a travel insurance claim is a required step toward receiving reimbursement. While each travel insurance provider has its own claims process, the majority follow a similar path.

Below are common steps you’ll likely encounter when filing a claim:

1. Contact Your Provider: Your first step should always be to reach out to your provider and inform them of your intention to file a claim. They will be able to review your policy to confirm coverage, as well as instruct you on the best method for filing a claim.
2. Collect All Relevant Documentation: You will be required to provide evidence of your financial loss. This may be in the form of receipts, hospital bills, police reports, airline correspondence, and other documents that may support your claim.
3. Complete A Claims Form: Once you have collected all documents, you may then begin to file your claim. Most modern providers will allow you to fill out a claims form online, either through their website or mobile app.
4. Submit Your Claim: Once you submit your claim, your provider may reach out to you for additional information. Be sure to check back from time to time to see the status of your claim, and if any judgments have been made.
5. Appeal (If Necessary): If you feel your claim has been unfairly denied, you may have the chance to appeal. During the appeal process, you may need to include additional documentation and details that weren’t present in your initial claim.

All policies purchased through Squaremouth come with our Zero Complaint Guarantee. If you believe your claim was unfairly denied, our team of licensed claims adjusters will investigate your case and mediate with the provider on your behalf.

How Long Does the Claims Process Take?

The claims process, from the date you file your claim to the day a judgment is made, can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. However, the timing of your specific claim will depend on the nature of the claim, the depth of supporting documentation you provide, and how quickly you’re able to reply to requests for additional information.

For a faster turnaround on your claim, we recommend the following:

• Listen to Your Provider: When you contact your provider, they will typically share what documents will be needed for your claim. Even if you don’t think they’re relevant, it’s important to include all documents they name.
• Make Documents Clear & Concise: You can expedite the claims process by limiting the work of the claims agent. Taking time to highlight line items of a receipt or text from an airline correspondence could save your claims agent time when reviewing your form.
• Submit Documents Electronically: While you may have the option to submit documents via the mail, we recommend going paperless. Not only is it faster, but it’s also less likely to get lost in transit.
• Regularly Check Claim Status: Rather than call you, your provider may request additional information via their online claims portal. With this in mind, make sure to check the portal regularly so that no updates, messages, or requests slip through the cracks.
  

What Can You Claim?

Typically, travel insurance offers reimbursement when unforeseen events disrupt your trip and result in financial loss. The specifics around what you’re able to claim, and the amount of reimbursement you are eligible for, will be outlined in your travel insurance policy.

Any benefit included within your policy’s Certificate of Insurance can be claimed. The most common travel insurance claims are related to cancellations, medical emergencies, and travel delays.

Reference your travel insurance benefits and exclusions to determine what events are covered by your provider. If you have further questions or need clarification on your coverage, you should contact your travel insurance provider.