How To Make A Claim On Your Pet Insurance (And Make Sure It Pays Out!)
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Mar 21, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Mar 21, 2024
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
On This Page
It’s the moment of truth.
You made the smart decision to enroll in a pet insurance policy.
Now you expect it to pay out for any illness or condition that your dog or cat might encounter.
And then it happens…
You suspect that your dog has an ear infection, so you take him to the vet.
Sure enough, your vet does an exam, finds out that your dog does have an ear infection, and has prescribed treatment to help cure the infection.
You pay the bill.
And now… it’s time to put your pet insurance to the test!
To be reimbursed, the next step would be to file a claim.
Every company is a bit different, and be sure to check your pet insurance company’s site to see how they work, but here are the general steps to filing a pet insurance claim. If you’re concerned at all about whether they’ll pay out, be sure to see step 3!
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FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
The Essential Steps In Filing A Pet Insurance Claim
Most pet insurance companies will make it really easy for you.
The best companies, like Healthy Paws and Figo, have easy to use mobile apps where you can upload your claim right from your phone.
Unlike human health insurance, you need to pay the vet bill first and then you will be reimbursed.
Trupanion is one of the few pet insurance providers that pay your veterinarian directly.
But these the are the general steps to filing a claim.
#1 – Pay Your Vet Bill
Then you will fill out a claim and either send it by fax, email or regular mail to your pet insurance provider.
Remember that with the first vet bill of your policy year, you will need to pay your deductible first and then your pet insurance provider will reimburse you according to the percentage level that you chose.
Related: 10 Things You Must Know Before You Buy Pet Insurance
#2 – Check The Details Of Your Policy
If the condition was pre-existing than it won’t be covered. Some pet insurance policies even exclude some hereditary or congenital conditions.
Some policies will even cover the medical expenses for alternative therapies, or if your pet gets sick when you are on a vacation and have to take them in for emergency treatment.
Not sure if the policy will pay? See #3.
#3 – Contact Your Pet Insurance Company
Your policy documents should tell you what the time frame is to submit a claim but most companies allow you to file a claim within 90 days of your vet visit.
If you aren’t sure about the coverage, contact your pet insurance company. Their customer service should be able to answer all your questions.
Not sure your policy will cover the treatment?
You can get a preapproval in some circumstances for a particular visit.
If you are concerned about an upcoming veterinary visit, you can get a preapproval in some cases. For example, Embrace Pet Insurance has a “pre-certification” process which completely takes out the guesswork.
#4 – Save All The Invoices
Some insurers allow you to take photos of these documents and upload them via their app.
Or with most, you can email them, fax or send all the documents via regular mail.
Always keep copies of whatever you send into the pet insurance company until the claim has been paid fully.
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#5 – Submit A Claim
With all of the documents in hand, you can either email them to your pet insurance provider, upload them via their app or mail in the documents.
There is usually a claim form to fill out and send with all your documents.
You can then follow up in a few weeks to see where the company is in processing your claim.
Some of the pet insurance providers have apps that can show you in real-time where the company is in the process of reimbursing you.
Always submit any claim that you might have that is covered by your pet insurance provider.
Even if the invoice is just a small amount, it could add up in applying towards your deductible.
#6 – Reimbursement
There are different methods of reimbursement.
Sometimes the company will send you a check in the mail.
Or send your reimbursement via automatic deposit to your checking account, just like direct deposit.
This is the best way to get reimbursed and a lot of pet insurance companies have this option.
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FACT: Pet insurance pays up to 90% of vet bills when your pet is sick or injured!
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Summing Up How To File a Claim
Filing a claim is fairly simple. Pet insurance providers want to make you happy and reimburse you in the quickest way possible.
Now that you have gone through the claims process, you can see why it is really important to choose a pet insurance provider that will be able to cover the costs for any possible condition or illness that might occur.
If you are looking for a new pet insurance company that processes claims quickly and has great coverage, out top 10 pet insurance companies of 2020 is a great place to start!
Read more: How do claims work with pet insurance?
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The Ultimate Guide to Safe Foods for Dogs
Pet insurance is similar to other insurances but does have some major differences as compared to your health insurance. Below you will find a definitive list of frequently asked pet insurance questions to help in your decision.
Types of Pet Insurance Coverage
Comprehensive Pet Insurance Explained
Insurance vs. Wellness Pet Insurance Plans
Is Pet Dental Insurance Worth the Extra Cost
Best Pet Insurance Plans with Shortest Waiting Periods
Pet Insurance Coverage Exclusions and Limits
Pet Insurance Benefit Limits Explained
How to Make a Claim on your Pet Insurance
Is my Pet too Old for Pet Insurance Coverage
Top Reasons to Purchase Pet Insurance
How much does Pet Insurance Cost
Pet Insurance for Multiple Pets
Pet Insurance that Covers Spaying and Neutering
Does Pet Insurance Cover Shots
Pet Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m unsure about my policy coverage?
Contact your pet insurance company’s customer service for clarification. They should be able to address all your questions and concerns regarding policy coverage.
Is there a time limit for submitting a claim after a vet visit?
While the time frame may vary, most companies allow you to file a claim within 90 days of your vet visit. Refer to your policy documents for specific details.
How do I check the status of my claim?
After submitting a claim, you can follow up in a few weeks to check the processing status. Some pet insurance providers offer apps that provide real-time updates on the claim processing progress.
What if my pet insurance company pays the vet directly?
Trupanion is one of the few pet insurance providers that pay veterinarians directly. If your company offers this option, ensure you understand the process and requirements.
Can I make a preapproval request for a veterinary visit?
Yes, in some cases, you can get a preapproval for a particular visit. For example, some pet insurance providers, like Embrace Pet Insurance, offer a “pre-certification” process to eliminate guesswork about coverage.
How soon should I submit a claim after a vet visit?
Check your policy documents for the timeframe to submit a claim, but most companies allow filing within 90 days of the vet visit. If uncertain about coverage, contact your pet insurance company promptly.
What if my pet insurance provider has a mobile app?
Many pet insurance companies, such as Healthy Paws and Figo, have user-friendly mobile apps for convenient claim submissions. You can upload documents directly from your phone.
How is reimbursement processed by pet insurance companies?
Reimbursement methods vary, with some companies sending checks by mail or depositing reimbursement directly into your checking account, similar to direct deposit.
Can I submit small claims, and is it worthwhile?
Yes, always submit any claim covered by your pet insurance, even if it’s a small amount. Small claims contribute towards meeting your deductible and may be beneficial in the long run.
How do I make a claim on my pet insurance?
To make a claim on your pet insurance, follow these general steps:
- Pay your vet bill upfront.
- Check the details of your policy to ensure coverage.
- Contact your pet insurance company if you have any doubts.
- Save all invoices related to the treatment.
- Submit a claim with the required documents.
- Await reimbursement through methods like a mailed check or direct deposit.
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap pet insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.