Six Mistakes That Turn a Valid Claim Into a Rejected One

13 July 2026 Claims 1 min read

Insurers reject a minority of claims, but the reasons are remarkably consistent — and almost all of them are within the policyholder’s control.

1. Non-disclosure at proposal

An undeclared condition, habit or existing policy. This is the single largest category by a wide margin. Disclose everything, even what seems irrelevant.

2. Claiming during a waiting period

Know your initial, specific and pre-existing waiting periods before you need them.

3. Late intimation

Policies specify notification timelines. For planned hospitalisation, notify before admission. For theft or accident, notify immediately and register an FIR.

4. Missing originals

Reimbursement claims need original bills, discharge summary and reports. Photocopies stall files.

5. Letting a policy lapse

Cover stops when the grace period ends. Set reminders, or use long-term policies where available.

6. An outdated nominee

An incorrect nominee turns a straightforward payout into a legal problem for a grieving family. Review it annually.

If a claim has already been repudiated, there is a grievance and ombudsman route. We help clients through it.

Information on this website is educational and advisory in nature. Insurance products, benefits, exclusions, waiting periods and claim outcomes are subject to the terms and conditions of the respective insurer's policy document and applicable IRDAI regulations. Please read the policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.

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