Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
Under New York law, insurers must acknowledge and process claim inquiries promptly. To retrieve your claim number and adjuster contact information, follow these steps:
- Gather your policy details. Locate your insurance carrier’s name, policy number, insured property or vehicle description, and date of loss.
- Contact your insurer. Call the customer service number on your policy documents or visit your insurer’s website. Many carriers offer online portals where you can log in and view your claim details directly.
- Request your claim number. Provide your policy and loss details, then ask for your assigned claim number.
- Ask for adjuster contact information. Request the name, phone number, and email address of the adjuster handling your claim. Under 11 NYCRR § 216.4(c), adjusters must make their contact information available.
- Document all communications. Record dates, names, and summaries of each conversation. If you communicate by email, save all messages.
- Send a written follow-up if needed. If the insurer does not respond within 15 business days, send a written request by certified mail. Cite N.Y. Ins. Law § 2601 (INS § 2601).
- File a complaint with DFS. If you still don’t receive the information, submit a complaint to the New York Department of Financial Services at dfs.ny.gov/complaint.
Helpful Hints
- Use your insurer’s mobile app or online portal for real-time updates.
- Keep your declarations page handy during calls.
- Ask for a written claim summary to confirm details.
- If you face delays, politely request to speak with a supervisor.
- Review your policy’s claims section for specific response timeframes.
- Note the adjuster’s license ID if provided—it helps track their credentials.