Step‑by‑step guide to what happens after you file an insurance claim in Minnesota

Quick note: This is educational information, not legal advice. If you need legal guidance about your specific situation, consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.

Detailed answer — what to expect and your rights under Minnesota rules

After you submit a claim to an insurance company in Minnesota, the insurer begins a series of standard steps to evaluate, investigate, and resolve the claim. The exact process varies by type of insurance (homeowners, auto, renters, business), the insurer, and the policy language, but most claims follow the same basic path:

1. Acknowledgment and claim number.

   The insurer usually confirms receipt of your claim and assigns a claim number. Keep that number and any contact information for the adjuster or claims representative. Good records speed up communication and prevent confusion.

2. Assignment of an adjuster and initial contact.

   An adjuster (company adjuster or independent adjuster) will be assigned to investigate. The adjuster will contact you to set up an inspection, ask for documentation, and explain next steps. Expect questions about when and how loss occurred and requests for proof of damage or loss.

3. Investigation and documentation collection.

   The insurer will investigate facts: verify coverage, examine damage, review police reports (if applicable), and collect photos, repair estimates, receipts, and witness statements. Provide requested documents promptly: photos, contractor or repair estimates, receipts for emergency repairs, and any police/fire reports. Keep copies of everything you submit.

4. Coverage analysis.

   The insurer reviews your policy terms to determine whether the loss is covered, whether exclusions or limits apply, and whether deductible(s) apply. If the claim is partially covered, the insurer should explain how it calculated payment for covered items and which parts it denies.

5. Estimate, repair authorization, or proof of loss.

   For property and auto claims, the insurer or its contractors will prepare an estimate. You may receive authorization to begin repairs or be asked to submit a signed “proof of loss” form. Don’t sign any release or a full settlement until you understand what it covers.

6. Settlement offer, payment, or denial.

   If the insurer accepts the claim, it will make an offer and issue payment (minus deductibles, depreciation, or policy limits). If it denies the claim (in whole or in part), you should receive a written denial explaining the reasons and pointing to policy provisions. Save all written correspondence.

7. Dispute resolution options when you disagree.

   If you disagree with the insurer’s decision or payment amount, options include: requesting reconsideration or an internal appeal; using any policy appraisal or arbitration clause; hiring an independent adjuster or contractor for a competing estimate; filing a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Commerce; or seeking legal remedies in court.

8. Closing the claim.

   When the insurer and claimant agree on payment and any needed repairs are completed, the insurer will close the claim. If the insurer denies coverage and you don’t appeal, the claim will be closed but you may still have rights under the policy or in court.

Timelines and regulatory standards

Minnesota requires insurers to handle claims in good faith and to communicate with claimants. If you believe the company is unreasonably delaying, refusing to investigate, or engaging in unfair settlement practices, you can complain to the Minnesota Department of Commerce, which oversees insurance consumer protections:

• Minnesota Department of Commerce — Insurance
• For consumer resources, see: Minnesota Department of Commerce — Consumers

Also see Minnesota statutes governing insurance practices (chapter references and regulatory rules): Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 72A.

When a claim is denied — next steps

• Ask for a written denial that cites the policy language or facts forming the basis for denial.
• Review your policy carefully to confirm the insurer’s interpretation. If the denial depends on factual disputes, provide additional evidence.
• Use internal appeal processes the insurer provides.
• File a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Commerce if you suspect unfair claim handling.
• Consider appraisal (for property claims) or arbitration if your policy has those clauses, or consult an attorney about litigation. If you pursue a lawsuit, keep in mind Minnesota’s statutes of limitation for contract claims (for written contracts, see Minnesota’s limitations statute): Minn. Stat. § 541.05.

Helpful Hints

• Document everything: dates, times, names, phone calls, emails, and what was said. Keep copies of all documents you send or receive.
• Take clear photos and videos of damage before making repairs (when safe and possible).
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs and mitigation expenses — most policies cover reasonable steps to prevent further damage.
• Don’t sign broad releases or final-payment forms until you understand they close all future claims related to the loss.
• Get at least one independent repair or replacement estimate to compare with the insurer’s estimate.
• If the insurer offers a low settlement, ask for an itemized explanation of how the numbers were calculated.
• If you suspect unfair treatment or bad faith, file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Commerce (links above) and consider consulting a Minnesota attorney experienced in insurance matters.
• Keep track of time. If you plan to sue, make sure to confirm the applicable statute of limitations for your claim—contract claims in Minnesota often follow the timelines in Minn. Stat. § 541.05.

Where to get help: For consumer-level questions and to file complaints about insurance companies, contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce (Insurance Division). For legal questions about coverage disputes, denials, bad faith, or litigation, consult a Minnesota-licensed attorney who handles insurance matters.

Disclaimer: This article explains general practices and resources under Minnesota law for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, create an attorney‑client relationship, or substitute for personalized legal counsel.