What happens if a claim is taking too long?

Asked by: Haylee Smitham  |  Last update: October 27, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (6 votes)

What happens if a settlement claim takes longer than anticipated? Some states require the insurer to provide a written explanation in response to why the claim is taking longer than 30 days. Occasionally, claims are delayed, but most state laws require insurance companies to inform you of the claim's status.

What can I do if my claim is taking too long?

Ask them straight up what is taking so long. If the answer isn't forthcoming ask them what you can do to facilitate the claim. Then provide them with anything reasonable for which they ask. Promptly. Ask the adjuster what they are doing to see the claim is taken care of.

How long should a claim take to settle?

Time limits may be extended in certain circumstances. 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 insurance claim taking so long?

» FAQs » Why do Insurance Companies Take So Long to Pay Out? Insurance companies may conduct an extensive investigation into an accident to determine fault and liability. This is one reason why it may take a long time for insurance companies to pay out.

Can I sue an 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 do I know if my claim is taking too long to be resolved? | Merlin Law Group

28 related questions found

How likely is an insurance company to sue you?

While subrogation allows insurance providers to pursue third parties, an insurer usually cannot sue their policyholders. However, there are certain situations where an insurer may take legal action against its policyholder.

Can I sue an insurance company for wasting my time?

The law requires insurance companies to acknowledge receipt of a claim within 15 days after they receive it. They must communicate their decision on the claim within 15 business days after receiving all necessary information related to the claim. If they fail to do so, policyholders have the right to sue for delay.

How can I speed up my insurance claim?

The Best Ways to Speed up the Insurance Claim Settlement Process
  1. Know About Your Policy. When you've got an understanding of your property insurance policy, you have the confidence to protect your rights. ...
  2. Learn About Your Legal Rights. ...
  3. Document Everything. ...
  4. Submit Proof of Your Losses. ...
  5. Get the Right Kind of Help.

Why do insurance companies drag out claims?

Insurance companies may purposely drag out the claims process, hoping that policyholders will grow frustrated and accept a lower settlement or even drop the claim entirely. This may include excessive paperwork requests, slow response times, or frequent requests for additional documentation.

Do insurance companies have a time limit?

All states except South Carolina have rules requiring insurers to pay or deny claims within a certain time frame, usually 30, 45, or 60 days.

What is the longest a settlement can take?

What is the longest a settlement can take? The duration of a personal injury settlement can vary dramatically, with complex cases potentially taking several years to resolve, though there's technically no absolute maximum time limit beyond the statute of limitations.

What is the time limit for accident claims?

Generally, the standard time limit to file a claim after a car accident is 30 days. However, some insurance companies may have a longer duration of 60 or 90 days. It is important to carefully read and understand the details of your car insurance policy to avoid missing out on the time limit for filing a claim.

What is the shortest time for settlement?

The settlement period starts from the day that the contract has been signed and any conditions attached to the sale have been met. The settlement period is typically 30 to 90 days, but it can be longer or shorter if the seller and the buyer both agree.

Why is my claim taking forever?

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 to escalate an insurance claim?

Contact your state insurance department.

Explain the reasons for the disagreement to a consumer services representative at the department. While they can't resolve or otherwise handle every complaint, the department will collect the information and alert you if your case is chosen to be individually reviewed.

Can I sue my insurance company for emotional distress?

Yes, you can sue for emotional distress under the common law standard, but it can be hard to prove. This is because you must show that the result of your claim denial caused you pain and suffering or emotional distress. This intangible loss can be more difficult to prove than, say, the cost of medical bills.

What to do when insurance is dragging their feet?

Steps to Take When the Insurance Company Is Dragging Their Feet. When you think an insurance company is intentionally delaying settling your insurance claim, you should be persistent. Continue to contact the assigned adjuster. Don't just leave voicemails but send emails as well to create a paper trail.

Do insurance adjusters try to lowball you?

Insurance adjusters are often given bonuses or other incentives based on how much money they save the company by getting claimants to accept low settlements. Making lowball offers is a key way insurers try to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line.

How can I speed up my insurance settlement?

Key Takeaways for Faster Claim Settlement

It involves understanding your insurance policy, documenting all losses and expenses, and being persistent during negotiations. One of the most effective strategies is to engage a public adjuster, such as us at Insurance Claim Recovery Support.

Can I sue insurance for denying claim?

There are laws designed to protect consumers in the state of California and across the nation. It's not uncommon for policyholders to sue their healthcare insurers for denial of a claim, mainly when the claim is for a service that is crucial to their health and future or the health and future of a loved one.

What happens if insurance doesn't respond in 30 days?

Insurers Do Not Need to Respond to Demand Letters

However, your attorney will be ready to take action against the company if they refuse to give your claim the attention it deserves. This might be by filing a civil lawsuit against the company if they continue to handle your claim in bad faith.

What is a bad faith claim?

Looking for evidence that supports the insurance company's basis for denying a claim and ignoring evidence that supports the policyholder's basis for making a claim is considered bad faith. If an insurer fails to promptly reply to a policyholder's claim, that act of negligence, willful or not, is considered bad faith.

How do I fight back against insurance companies?

There are 2 ways to appeal a health plan decision:
  1. Internal appeal: If your claim is denied or your health insurance coverage canceled, you have the right to an internal appeal. ...
  2. External review: You have the right to take your appeal to an independent third party for review.