Why do claims adjusters take so long?
Asked by: Keon Murray | Last update: December 29, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (35 votes)
Why is my insurance adjuster taking so long?
Here are some common reasons they might try to drag out settling your claim: Insurance companies are a business. Auto insurance companies are profit-driven entities whose goal is to make money. They may delay settling your claim to minimize their financial losses.
How long does it take for an adjuster to make a decision?
Typically, under the terms of the insurance policy and/or by state law, the adjuster must complete an initial review and send a response within a reasonable amount of time – usually on the order of 30 days.
How long should I wait for my adjuster to call me?
Once you report your claim, an adjuster is assigned right away; but may take 24-48 hours to reach out to you. The adjuster is an employee of your insurance company, and is responsible for reviewing all of the claim notes, determining who is at fault, and keeping you up to speed on how the claim is progressing.
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.
How Top Adjusters Close So Many Claims
Do insurance adjusters try lowball?
This strategy is very common in states that follow the principle of pure comparative fault, like California. Under California's laws, your damages will be reduced depending on your percentage of fault. By shifting some of the blame to you, the insurance company could get away with paying less than they should.
How long do you have to accept a settlement offer?
Time Limits on Settlement Offers
The terms of the offer itself: Sometimes, an insurance company will put a deadline on their offer. They might say you have 30 days or 60 days to accept. However, these deadlines are often negotiable, especially with the help of a personal injury lawyer.
Why is my claims adjuster ignoring me?
Understand potential reasons you are being ignored
Insurance companies may ignore even valid claims for a range of self-serving reasons: They want to avoid paying out money whenever possible to maximize profits. They are chronically overwhelmed and disorganized with high claim volumes.
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.
Can you negotiate with adjuster?
Yes, you absolutely can and should negotiate with insurance adjusters. Negotiation is a normal part of the claims process. The first offer is usually not the final one. Insurance companies often start low to see if you'll accept less than what you're entitled to.
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.”
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.
How do I get my insurance adjuster to respond?
How long does it take to hear back from an adjuster?
Usually, you'll hear from an insurance adjuster within three days of making the claim to discuss matters. If they need to survey the damage, it can be a few more days. If you use a repair garage that is affiliated with (or at least approved by) your insurance company, the process can speed up a bit.
Why is the insurance adjuster not responding?
Sometimes, they might just need to reassess your case. If new information pops up, adjusters might step back to reevaluate how your claim fits with the guidelines or policies. It's frustrating, but it could be a good sign that they're taking your case seriously!
Why are my claims taking so long to process?
Prompt pay laws require insurance companies to complete claims within a set time, averaging around 30 days. However, delays due to inaccuracies, manual tasks, and miscommunication can cause that process to take longer. The claim may undergo multiple rejections until it's correct and reaches settlement.
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 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.
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.
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.
How to beat the insurance adjuster?
- Write a convincing demand letter to your insurance company.
- Carefully review any settlement offers you receive.
- Reject a settlement offer in writing on your behalf.
- Counter your lowball settlement offer.
Can an adjuster cancel a claim?
Yes, the adjuster is free to close their file, and they could even withdraw any settlement offers (We do not see this happen very often). However, state law, not the adjuster, determines the time limit you have to pursue your case.
What is a reasonable settlement offer?
The settlement amounts should reflect the damages suffered by the plaintiff, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical care, and other related costs. The key to fair financial compensation is to determine whether the offer is reasonable and aligns with the extent of the damages.
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 settlement offer taking so long?
The team may take longer when multiple parties, conflicting accounts, or extensive damage are involved to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and determine a fair settlement. However, they can also be settled quickly as long as you are willing to accept less money.