How long does it take for an adjuster to make a decision?

Asked by: Levi Sawayn  |  Last update: May 14, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (17 votes)

Whether you're dealing with a car insurance claim or a homeowner's claim, the insurance adjuster typically has 14 days to issue an initial response and 90 days to make at least a partial payment. However, this timeline doesn't guarantee you'll receive the full compensation you're owed within 90 days.

How long does it take to hear back from an insurance adjuster?

Standard Waiting Time

Typically, after reporting a claim to your insurance provider, you can expect a claims adjuster to reach out within 24 to 48 hours. This initial contact will be to gather more details about the incident and potentially schedule a time for an in-person inspection of the damages.

Why do insurance adjusters take so long?

It can take quite a while to investigate an accident, especially when it comes to determining liability for the accident. The insurance company has to collect information about the claim, review evidence, and carry out other tasks to ensure the claim is valid and make a plan for moving forward with it.

How long does it take for an adjuster to write a check?

Payments Must Be Made Within 30 Days of Settlement

On average, insurers send a check quicker, in about two weeks. Despite this, there are situations, such as when liens are involved, where it may be longer before you actually see the money.

How do you negotiate with an adjuster?

Here's how to negotiate with insurance adjusters like a pro:

Prepare thoroughly by knowing your policy details and the value of your claim. Gather all evidence, including photos, medical records, and repair estimates. Stay calm, be polite, and firm in your communications.

How Long Does It Take for an Insurance Adjuster to Make a Decision? - InsuranceGuide360.com

35 related questions found

How long does it take an insurance adjuster to make an offer?

Some insurance adjusters respond to demand with an offer of compensation well within the allotted thirty (30) day time frame, while others, taking the previously mentioned factors, can understandably exceed the given period.

What is a reasonable settlement figure?

A reasonable proposed settlement figure is one that takes into account the amount of awards juries in your area have made in recent, similar cases. Your initial settlement demand should be a number that's high enough to leave you room for negotiation.

What not to tell a claims adjuster?

Some key phrases to avoid saying to an insurance adjuster include: “I'm sorry.” “It was all/partly my fault.” “I did not see the other person/driver.”

What happens after adjuster looks at house?

After that, the insurance adjuster will file a report containing their findings and recommendations. Some insurance adjusters can authorize a claim on the spot, but it is more common that you will have to review the report and communicate with the insurance company to finalize the claim.

How do I get more for my totaled car?

6 Steps to get the most money from insurance for your totaled car
  1. Ask for the valuation report. ...
  2. Conduct your research on the value of your vehicle. ...
  3. Gather and provide supporting documentation. ...
  4. Consider getting a third-party appraisal. ...
  5. Negotiate with your insurance company. ...
  6. Get what is rightfully yours.

How do I get my insurance adjuster to respond?

  1. 5 Tips for Getting Speedy Responses from Claims Adjusters. by Jodi Mathy.
  2. Know that your claims adjuster is trying. ...
  3. Give them at least 24 hours to respond. ...
  4. Leave good voicemails. ...
  5. Email is generally better than calling. ...
  6. If your claims adjuster is truly MIA, escalate it.

Can I sue my insurance company for taking too long?

The answer to this question is complex, but California health insurance providers are bound by state law to respond to claims within a specific amount of time. If they fail to do so, you may have the basis for a lawsuit against your insurer due to bad faith.

How long does a compensation claim take to settle?

Claims handled through the portal usually take around 4-9 months to settle – based on clients' accepting the first settlement offer. Clinical Negligence: Clinical negligence cases can take anything from 18 months to even 2-3 years to settle.

Why is my claims adjuster taking so long?

However, delays can occur due to various reasons such as lack of evidence, legal disputes, or the insurance company trying to minimize their payout. If you believe your personal injury claim is being wrongfully delayed, it is important to take action.

Who gets the insurance check when a car is totaled?

If you own the car outright, you will receive the check. If not, the check goes to the leasing company or the lender, otherwise known as the lien holder. If you owe money on the vehicle, you should notify the lending company that your car has been totaled.

Should I talk to a claims adjuster?

It is advised not to talk to the insurance adjuster immediately after the accident; instead, get a free consultation from an attorney first. You are not legally obligated to talk to the insurance adjuster, and they cannot condition a settlement upon you talking to them.

How long does an adjuster have to investigate a claim?

Most insurance companies are typically given between 15 to 90 days to investigate a claim and accept or deny it, depending on the specific state regulations, the type of the claim, and the case's complexity. For instance: Straightforward property damage claims may be resolved more quickly.

How do adjusters determine damage?

Interview those involved: The adjuster will collect recorded statements from people involved in the loss, such as drivers, passengers, and witnesses. They may also review the scene of the accident, police reports, or video footage of the loss, along with any other information related to the loss.

Do insurance adjusters get bonuses for denying claims?

Insurers are driven to increase their profits. In that vein, some of them give bonuses to adjusters who successfully and consistently deny claims. Adjusters who pay too many claims may find themselves without a job.

How do you beat claims adjuster?

What Is the Single Best Way to Scare an Insurance Adjuster?
  1. Write a convincing demand letter to your insurance company.
  2. Carefully review any settlement offers you receive.
  3. Reject a settlement offer in writing on your behalf.
  4. Counter your lowball settlement offer.

Why would an adjuster deny a claim?

If there is any indication that their policyholder isn't responsible the insurer will deny your claim. Claims may also be denied if there's evidence to show that the policyholder isn't entirely to blame for an accident. In California, anyone who contributes to an accident can be held responsible for resulting injuries.

What should you not say to a loss adjuster?

Understand that everything you say whether in person or over the phone, can be used against you in their final assessment. Avoid providing incomplete or potentially detrimental information that could be used to lower the settlement offer, like failing to mention pre-existing damage.

What is a normal settlement amount?

The rough 'rule of thumb' that we generally use to determine the value of the average settlement agreement payout (in respect of compensation for termination of employment) is two to three months' gross salary (in addition to your notice pay, holiday pay etc., as outlined above).

What's a good settlement offer?

A reasonable settlement offer is one that adequately covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and any additional losses you have experienced, although it can vary significantly from one claim to another.

How much does insurance pay for pain and suffering?

Insurance companies typically don't have a set amount they pay for pain and suffering. The compensation varies widely depending on the specifics of each case, including the severity of injuries, impact on daily life, and long-term consequences. Many times, the value of pain and suffering damages depends on negotiation.