How to make a traveler’s insurance claim

Many people are aware of the importance of travel insurance, but few know how to use the policy when needed. It could be in your best interest to familiarize yourself with making a claim rather than get caught unprepared while across the country or overseas.

Have your policy on hand at all times

At the very least you should have the card on hand that the company sent you by mail or email. Emergencies can happen at any time, and you may not be able to run back to the hotel or resort to get your policy information.

Keep your receipts

The insurance company is going to want related bills, invoices and reports related to your claim. Keep in mind that it isn’t easy to go back later to get these items, and depending on where you travel, the business may not be open to sending them via fax or email. Collect them as you go and keep them safe.

Contact the company

As early as possible, speak with the company and ask to file a claim. Some companies will have an online portal for this while others will require you to speak to a representative on the phone. If you are making a claim for more than one event, you may be required to file separate claims for full benefits.

Be thorough and honest in the claim

Give the company as many details as possible—who was involved, what happened and the incident occurred. Go over the expenses involved and explain the documentation you have. Be sure not to embellish the story, as any amount of fraud can result in a denied claim.

Send the supporting documents

You may need to do this in stages. For example, if medical treatment is ongoing, you may submit your initial receipts when opening the claim and continue until treatment is over and the claim is closed. Be certain to keep copies for your own records. The company may accept uploaded or faxed documents.

From this point on, you can only wait for your claim to be reviewed. If it is denied or does not turn out as you wish, you can dispute the company’s decision. To learn more about coverage and making claims, speak with an insurance broker.