When you’ve done everything right—filed your claim, submitted documentation, and waited patiently—being ignored by your insurance company can feel like betrayal. Unfortunately, it’s more common than most people realize. Whether you’re dealing with a property damage claim, a total loss, or a diminished value issue, radio silence from your insurer can delay compensation and put you in a financial bind.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly what steps to take when your insurance company doesn’t respond. We’ll cover how to document your efforts, escalate the issue, and even file a complaint or take legal action if needed. By the end, you’ll know how to protect your rights and move your claim forward—even when the insurer goes quiet.
Why Insurance Companies Delay or Ignore Claims
Common Excuses You Might Hear
Insurers may stall using vague or recycled responses such as:
- “We didn’t receive your claim.”
- “It’s still under review.”
- “We’re waiting on additional documents.”
These delays are frustrating but not always malicious. Sometimes, it’s bureaucracy. Other times, it’s a tactic to avoid or delay payouts. Recognizing the difference is key to your next steps.
Bad Faith vs. Bureaucracy
An insurer crossing into bad faith territory—deliberately avoiding or undervaluing a claim—is a legal matter. But a disorganized claims department may simply need a push. Either way, you have rights.
Your First Move: Confirm Receipt and Timeline
Check Your Policy and State Rules
Start by reviewing your policy and looking up your state’s insurance response time laws. Most states require insurers to acknowledge a claim within 15 to 40 business days.
Request Confirmation
Send a written request (via email or certified mail) asking for written confirmation that your claim was received. Keep a copy for your records.
Resend With Proof If Necessary
If you suspect your claim was ignored or lost, resubmit the documentation with a timestamped cover letter. Include repair estimates, police reports, photos, and any communication logs.
Start a Paper Trail Immediately
Every interaction with the insurance company should be documented.
- Record the name, date, time, and summary of every call or email.
- Save all emails and send follow-ups in writing after phone calls.
- Use certified mail when sending important documents.
This log may be vital if you need to escalate the issue or take legal action.
Escalate Internally Before Going Public
Ask for a Supervisor
If your adjuster isn’t responding, request to speak with their supervisor. Be polite but firm. Keep communication professional and written whenever possible.
Go Higher Up
Many insurers have an internal appeals process or customer relations department. You can request a formal review of your ignored claim.
Know Your Legal Rights and Deadlines
Most states require insurance companies to respond to claims within a set period. If they fail to do so, they may be violating state law.
Some examples:
- California: 15 days to acknowledge, 40 days to accept/deny.
- Texas: 15 days to respond, 45 days to resolve.
- Florida: 14 days to respond, 90 days to settle.
Check with your state’s department of insurance to see how your case fits.
File a Complaint with Your State’s Insurance Department
If your insurance company continues to ignore your claim, file a complaint. Most state insurance departments have an online complaint portal.
What You’ll Need:
- Your policy number and claim number
- Copies of all correspondence
- A timeline of all communication attempts
This often triggers a formal investigation and compels the insurer to act.
Consider Legal Action If Silence Persists
Hire an Attorney
For high-value claims or clear cases of bad faith, a consumer rights or insurance attorney can help. Many offer free consultations.
Small Claims Court
If your claim is under your state’s small claims limit (often $5,000–$10,000), you may not need a lawyer. Bring your documentation and ask the judge to enforce the claim.
Prevent Future Issues
Choose Insurers with Strong Claims Support
Look up customer reviews and complaint indexes from your state’s Department of Insurance before purchasing a policy.
Read Your Policy Carefully
Know what’s covered, what’s excluded, and how long your insurer has to respond before you ever need to file a claim.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Silence Stall Your Claim
Being ignored by your insurance company doesn’t mean your claim is over. The law is on your side—as long as you’re proactive. Document everything, escalate as needed, and don’t hesitate to involve state regulators or legal help if the insurer remains unresponsive.
You deserve a fair response and timely compensation. If they won’t talk, it’s your turn to act.
