What to Do First After an Insurance Claim Is Denied

After an insurance claim is denied, first preserve the complete policy and claim file, identify exactly what the insurer denied, and calendar every possible deadline. Do not assume an internal complaint, ombuds review or continuing negotiation pauses a limitation period. The next step depends on whether the dispute concerns coverage, compliance with a policy condition, valuation, or only part of the claim. Save the documents as they existed when the decision arrived: Keep originals and work from copies. If physical evidence may be repaired, discarded or altered, ask the insurer what inspection it requires and record the response. Continue reasonable steps to protect property and reduce further loss, without destroying evidence needed to establish the claim.