Chris AshtonOnline travel insurance provider InsureandGo has lifted the lid on its travel claim process, revealing some handy tips that could help your travel insurance claim progress quicker.
New data from the insurer has found more than one in four (28%) claims lodged in the last 12 months were made between July and September, making this their busiest time of year.
While there’s not much you can do to avoid peak season if something goes go wrong, knock wood, there are simple clever hacks to help avoid the congestion.
“If something does go wrong and you have to lodge a claim, there are a few simple things that travellers can do to help speed the claiming process up,” says Victor Quiroz, Head of Implementations and Operations at InsureandGo.
If you need to claim, these are some handy tips to help speed up your claim.
1. Send your documents in one go
If you send through all the documentation that’s requested the first time, you’re in for a speedy process. When a claims officer only has access to half the documents, they’ll send an email requesting more information, meaning your case will be delayed for approval.
2. Document everything
Remember to log police and airline reports and get as much documentation as possible as it’s important to leave a paper trail. These reports will include information about the lost or stolen belongings and background for your insurance provider. Be prepared to get doctor’s certificates, medical histories, and specialist reports if necessary. These are both good ways to give your provider more information to work with, as they may not be able to process your claim without it.
3. Keep your confidential information handy
Take a photo of all important documents such as your passport, receipts, IMEI number for your phone or other devices and email them to yourself. Your IMEI number is your phone or computers’ unique 15-digit code, allowing you to block your device in the event it is lost or stolen. Remember, the onus of proof is on you, not the insurer.
4. Understand your policy
Making a claim for the first time can be intimidating but understanding the policy you’ve purchased will help make the process smoother. Your Product Disclosure Statement, or PDS, contains everything you’re covered for, including general exclusions and emergency contact numbers among others. It also tells you the amount you can claim up to for travel incidents covered by your insurer.
5. Keep your receipts
Receipts are essential in the event your belongings are lost or stolen. If your wallet is lost or stolen with cash inside, a hardcopy ATM receipt might see your dollars returned. If you purchase expensive gifts which are lost or stolen, keep the receipts or take a photo of them on your phone as you may be able to claim these up to a certain amount if you have the right level of cover. If you don’t have a receipt for a lost or stolen gift, your insurance provider may not be able to reimburse you.
