Short answer — what to do first

If an insurance company tells you their settlement amount is “final,” do not accept that statement at face value. Pause, get the offer in writing, review your policy, preserve all evidence, and explore dispute options. Many insurance decisions can be reopened, appealed, or challenged—especially if the insurer failed to explain the basis for the decision, ignored key evidence, or missed procedural duties.

Detailed answer — step-by-step actions

1. Ask for the full offer and reasons in writing

Request a written offer and an explanation of benefits (EOB) or a written denial/explanation that explains how the company calculated the payment and what evidence formed the basis for their position. Insurers commonly put numbers or short notes in telephone calls; written materials give you something concrete to review and, if necessary, use later.

2. Read your policy and find coverage terms and deadlines

Your policy controls what the insurer must pay and how disputes are handled. Look for limits, deductibles, exclusions, the deadline for sending a proof of loss, and any required appraisal or arbitration clauses. If you are unsure how to read your policy, consider asking a lawyer or a consumer helpline to point out the parts that matter.

3. Preserve evidence and documentation

Keep medical bills, repair estimates, photos, police reports, witness contact information, medical records, and correspondence with the insurer. Save original bills and receipts and maintain a clear timeline of events. Loss of records weakens your negotiating position.

4. Compare the offer to a carefully prepared demand

Create a concise demand package: a one-page summary of your claim, key evidence, and a specific dollar amount with a deadline for response (for example, 14–30 days). A firm, documented demand clarifies what you expect and can prompt a new evaluation.

5. Consider whether the policy has appraisal or arbitration clauses

Many property and first-party claims include an appraisal clause (for disputes about repair cost or value) or an arbitration clause. If your policy has an appraisal process, you can trigger it to get an independent valuation. Read the policy language carefully or consult a lawyer to make sure you follow the proper procedure.

6. File a complaint with the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI)

If the insurer is unresponsive, fails to explain its decision, delays unreasonably, or you suspect unfair claim practices, you can file a complaint with the Wisconsin OCI. The OCI accepts consumer complaints and can investigate unfair practices and help mediate. File or learn more here: https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Consumers/FileComplaint.aspx.

7. Understand timing — preserve your right to sue

If you might need to sue, know that Wisconsin generally imposes time limits (statutes of limitation) on civil claims. For most personal-injury and negligence claims, the general time limit is three years from the date of injury. See Wis. Stat. § 893.54: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/893/54. Different types of claims (property damage, contract, or bad-faith claims) may have other deadlines. Missing a deadline can permanently bar a lawsuit, so act promptly.

8. Consider hiring an attorney

An attorney who handles insurance claims can evaluate whether the insurer treated you properly, help prepare a demand or lawsuit, and handle settlement negotiations. For many Wisconsin injury and damage claims, attorneys work on contingency (they are paid only if you recover). If an insurer says the offer is final, a lawyer can often reopen talks or explain legal remedies.

9. Beware of signing releases or accepting checks labeled “final”

Do not sign a full release or cash a settlement check labeled “final payment” until you fully understand what rights you waive. Releases commonly end your right to seek more money later. If the insurer asks you to sign, get the release reviewed first.

10. Alternative dispute resolution and small claims

If you have a small-dollar dispute and do not hire an attorney, Wisconsin small-claims court or mediation can be practical options. For larger claims, mediation or arbitration can resolve disputes faster and with less expense than trial. Wisconsin Courts provide self-help resources about civil and small-claims procedures: https://www.wicourts.gov/.

11. When an insurer’s behavior may be illegal

If the insurer ignored policy terms, failed to investigate, misrepresented facts, or denied coverage without a reasonable basis, you may have grounds for regulatory or legal action. The Office of the Commissioner of Insurance enforces Wisconsin insurance laws and can investigate consumer complaints. File a complaint at the link above.

Helpful hints

• Always get offers and denials in writing.
• Keep a written timeline of all calls: dates, times, names, and what was said.
• Don’t accept a check marked “final payment” until you’re sure you won’t need more money for medical care or repairs.
• Ask the insurer to itemize how they calculated the offer (medical bills, lost wages, depreciation, policy limits).
• If the insurer requests a recorded statement, consider talking to a lawyer first.
• Use the OCI complaint process if the insurer ignores you or appears to engage in unfair practices: https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/Consumers/FileComplaint.aspx.
• Act promptly — statutes of limitation can bar claims if you wait too long (see Wis. Stat. § 893.54: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/893/54).
• If you hire a lawyer, preserve all records and give copies to your attorney quickly to speed evaluation and action.