The Claims Process That Actually Works
Most people file claims wrong the first time. I did too. Here's how to do it right from the start.
Take Photos of Everything at the Vet
This sounds weird, but trust me. Take photos of the itemized receipt with your phone while you're still at the vet.
I've had receipts where the ink faded by the time I got home. Or the receipt got folded and the important stuff was unreadable.
Also, some vets print receipts on weird paper that scans poorly. A clear phone photo works better than a blurry scan.
One time I forgot to get the itemized receipt and just took the basic one. Had to drive back to the vet to get the detailed version. The insurance company needs to see exactly what was done and how much each thing cost.
Submit Claims the Day You Get Home
Don't wait. I used to pile up receipts and submit them monthly. Bad idea.
The longer you wait, the more likely you'll lose something or forget details. Plus, some companies have time limits.
Most insurance companies have phone apps now. Takes 5 minutes to submit a claim if you do it right away.
My current company approves claims faster if you submit within 30 days. After that, they ask more questions and it takes longer.
Know What They Actually Need
The itemized receipt isn't enough. Most companies also want the medical records showing what was wrong with your pet.
Sometimes the vet writes this on the receipt. Sometimes it's a separate sheet. Sometimes you have to ask for it.
I had a claim denied because the receipt said 'office visit' but didn't say what the problem was. Had to go back and get the actual medical notes.
Now I always ask the vet: 'What paperwork do I need for insurance?' They usually know exactly what to give you.
Why Claims Get Denied and How to Fix It
I've had 3 claims denied. All for stupid reasons that could've been avoided.
Pre-Existing Condition Games
My biggest denied claim was for my dog's ear infection. They said it was pre-existing because he'd had an ear infection before I got insurance.
But this was a different ear. And it was 2 years later.
I called and argued. Took 6 phone calls and submitting extra medical records, but they finally approved it.
The lesson? Keep detailed records of your pet's health before getting insurance. If something comes up later, you can prove it's not the same problem.
Missing Information
I had a claim for $400 denied because the vet receipt didn't have my pet's full name. Just said 'Max' instead of 'Max Smith.'
Seemed petty, but the insurance company said they couldn't verify it was the right pet.
Now I double-check that receipts have the full name, my name, and the date. Basic stuff, but it matters.
Waiting Period Issues
Filed a claim for my dog's stomach problems 10 days after getting insurance. Denied because the waiting period was 14 days.
I didn't even know what a waiting period was. Most companies won't cover anything that happens in the first 2 weeks of coverage.
Read your policy. Know when coverage actually starts. It's not the day you pay your first premium.