A proof of loss form is a document that insurance companies require when you have a claim for property damages.
The form itself can seem intimidating, but it is vital to ensuring you receive the reimbursement due to you — especially if you've got a good insurance package. And if you haven't, make sure you're getting the best deal on insurance by using car insurance
comparison and broker app Jerry
. Here are some helpful tips to keep you from committing common mistakes filling out a proof loss form.
Missing information and documents
Reading through forms can be boring and tedious, but in this case, you want to pay attention. Your insurance policy will include an extensive list of details and documents you should include with your proof of loss form. Information required includes, but is not limited to:
Detailed description of loss
List of all parties, including self and other stakeholders, claiming loss
Contact information for all parties
Copy of insurance policy and policy number
Inspections and estimates of loss
Claim number, if assigned
Any documentation supporting proof of loss
Leaving blanks
Make sure to proofread your proof of loss form before submitting. You need to ensure all the information is filled out, leaving no blank answers or spaces. If something is unclear, contact your insurance company or adjuster to ask for assistance. Your claim can be delayed or denied if information is missing.
Missing deadlines
Most insurance companies require you to make your claim and submit your proof of loss form within a specific time period after the date of occurrence. If you miss this deadline, your claim can be denied. If you’re having a hard time gathering all the information required, ask for an extension. Get confirmation of the extension in writing so there is no question on the matter later.
Missing signature and notarization
Believe it or not, people commonly forget to sign their proof of loss form. Even more common, they forget to get the form notarized. Your claim will be rejected if your signature is not notarized. A significant portion of the information needed is based on your sworn statement of the occurrence.
Neglecting to follow-up
You’ve submitted your proof of loss form and now you are waiting to hear back from your insurance company. It’s been a few weeks, but you assume everything is on track. Do not make the mistake of not following up. Often an insurance company will require additional documentation. If they can show proof that they requested the information via email or mail, even though you did not receive it, this could negatively affect your claim. Keep in touch so you are not kept out of the loop.
Not knowing your rights
Insurance regulations and laws differ from state to state. If an insurance company is trying to reduce your benefits or deny a claim, check your local laws to see if there is anything to prevent them from doing so. For example, if you missed a deadline, your state might require by law that the insurance company give you a reasonable extension. Also, there are several states that have laws requiring a claim be settled within a certain time period.
Getting the right car insurance
Regardless of how effectively you file your proof of loss form, it's still important that you have the best insurance for you. To find the best package for you, try using the Jerry
app. A licensed broker, Jerry does all the hard work of finding cheap quotes from the top name-brand insurance companies and buying new car insurance. Jerry will even help you cancel your old policy. And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price.
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