24 Mar 2025

5 steps to filing a personal insurance claim

Claim time can be a stressful time. So, whether it’s for life insurance, income protection, or health insurance, knowing what to expect and how to streamline the process can make all the difference. At Insurance Link, we’re here to ensure you feel supported every step of the way. Check out this simple, step-by-step guide to get started.

Step 1: Understand what your policy covers

If you have an insurance plan, it’s always important to know what’s covered and what’s not. This will help set realistic expectations and make the most of your cover when claim time comes.

If you’re not quite sure where to start, especially before submitting a claim, get in touch. We can help you check:

  • Policy benefits – Does your policy cover the situation?
  • Waiting periods – Some policies, like income protection, may require a set period before benefits begin.
  • Exclusions or limitations – Each policy has specific conditions that might affect your claim.

Step 2: Gather the necessary documents

Having the right paperwork ready can speed up the claim process. While requirements vary by policy type, here are some common documents you may need:

  • Health and income protection claims: Medical reports from your doctor.
  • Life insurance claims: Death certificate and policy details.
  • Income protection claims: Proof of income (salary or tax returns).

It can be a good idea to keep a digital folder of important documents, including your insurance policy wording, so they’re easy to access when needed.

Step 3: Contact your insurance adviser or insurer

Once you’ve gathered your documents, the next step is to initiate the claim. Your Insurance Link adviser can help you lodge the claim and ensure all paperwork is correctly filled out, as well as explain next steps and answer any questions you may have.

Depending on the insurer, they might allow claims to be submitted online, over the phone or through an adviser. Choosing the right method can help speed things up.

Step 4: Submit your claim and follow up

After submitting your claim, the insurer will review your documentation and may request additional details. To keep things moving smoothly, it’s important to be proactive, respond quickly and stay organised. And if delays arise, your Insurance Link adviser can help follow up on your behalf.

Step 5: Receive your payout or benefits

Once your claim has been approved, your insurer will process the payment. This may be either a lump sum payment (e.g., life insurance, health insurance and trauma insurance claims) or ongoing payments (e.g., monthly income protection benefits).

Once again, if you experience any issues, like a claim dispute, Insurance Link can advocate for you and ensure your case is handled fairly.

Get the support you need

Filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be challenging. With the right steps, it can be straightforward and efficient.

If you need guidance, your Insurance Link adviser is always in your corner. Whether you’re starting a claim or need support along the way, we’re just a call away.

 

Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current development or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek financial advice.

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