Filing an insurance claim is how you receive the financial support promised under your policy. But the process and nature of claims can vary depending on the type of insurance you hold. From medical bills to car repairs and life coverage, each insurance product comes with its own claim procedures and requirements.
This blog breaks downs the types of insurance claims commonly filed in India, so you know what to expect and how to prepare.
Explore: What is Health Insurance & Why is it important?
1. Health Insurance Claims
Health insurance claims are made to cover medical expenses due to illness, injury, or hospitalization. These can be filed in two ways:
Cashless Claims
The insurance company directly settles the bill with the network hospital, You only need your health card and get pre-authorization for treatment.
Reimbursement Claims
You pay the bills upfront and later submit all receipts and reports for reimbursement from the insurer.
2. Life Insurance Claims
These are claims made by the nominee after the death of the policyholder. The insurance company pays the sum assured to the nominee as per the policy terms.
Types of Life Insurance Claims:
- Death Claim: Filed by the beneficiary in the event of the policyholder when the policy term ends and the sum assured is payable.
- Maturity Claim: Filed by the policyholder when the policy term ends and the sum assured is payable.
- Rider Claim: If the policy includes riders like accidental death or critical illness, separate claims may be filed.
3. Motor Insurance Claims
Motor insurance claims are filed in case of vehicle damage, theft, or third-party liability.
Types of Motor Insurance Claims:
- Own damage claim: Covers repairs to your own vehicle due to an accident.
- Third-Party claim: Covers damage or injury to someone else caused by your vehicle.
- Theft claim: Filed when your vehicle is stolen.
4. Property Insurance Claims
These claims are filed in case of damage or loss to insured property due to fire, natural disasters, or theft. You must report the loss, submit proof, and sometimes undergo a survey for claim approval.
5. Travel Insurance Claims
Travel insurance claims cover financial losses due to trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, or lost baggage.
Common Travel Claim Types:
- Medical expense claims
- Baggage loss/delay
- Trip cancellation/interruption
- Flight delay
6. Personal Accident Insurance Claims
These claims provide compensation for accidental death, disability, or injury. Based on the severity, the pay out can be full or partial.
How to File a Personal Accident Insurance Claim:
- Notify the Insurance Company Immediately: Inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible. Most insurers have a 24×7 helpline or allow claims to be initiated online.
- Submit a Duly Filled Claim Form: Fill out the personal accident claim form with accurate details about the incident.
- Provide Necessary Documents:
- FIR or police report (in case of road accident or public incident)
- Medical reports and disability certificate (for injury or disability claims)
- Death certificate and post-mortem report (for accidental death claims)
- Identity proof of the insured and claimant
- Policy document
- Medical Examination or Survey (if applicable): The insurer may appoint a medical examiner or surveyor to assess the extent of injuries or damages.
- Claim Review and Settlement: Once verified, the insurer processes the claim and disburses the payout based on the type and extent of injury.
Keep all original documents, medical records, and bills safe. Follow up regularly with the insurer for status updates.
Explore: Why Insurance Claims Get Rejected?
Final Thoughts
Understanding the types of insurance claims helps you act quickly and correctly when it matters. Whether it’s a health emergency, car accident, or unfortunate loss, knowing which claim applies and how to file it can save time and stress. Always keep your policy documents handy, follow the procedure, and contact your insurer promptly to ensure smooth claim processing.
