Tips for Getting Insurance to Pay What They Owe

I just ran across some tips from the American Association of Justice on getting insurance companies to pay what they owe you. The tips came out of a report called "Tricks of the Trade: How Insurance Companies Deny, Delay, Confuse and Refuse." This topic hits home with me since this is what I do for a living. Since I thought these were some great tips I decided I would pass them on to you.

1) Read your policy carefully: Know exactly what is covered and how to appeal a denial by your insurance company.

2) Be very careful filling out forms: Even if you make an honest mistake your insurance company may seize on that as a reason to retroactively deny your coverage.

3) Do not cash a premium refund check: If your insurance company rescinds your insurance, it many send you a refund for the premiums you paid. Cashing it may be interpreted as accepting its decision.

4) Put everything in writing: Calling your insurer is likely to be a frustrating experience and you won't be able to prove anything a rep tells you on the phone. Keep records of all bills and correspondence.

5) Contact the Department of Financial Services: As the state insurance regulator, it may be able to help you. But it will not represent you in a private matter, so you may still need to consult an attorney.

6) And most of all, do not give up: Insurance companies count on it.

I really hope none of you ever get into a situation where you have to dispute what is owed with an insurance company. This is what I do and I can get frustrated at times. I know it can be worse for the person who deserves the benefits. If you ever do have a question and want to bounce it off an attorney feel free to give me a call at 952-469-2288. This is one situation where I hope I don't hear from you.