Purchasing insurance is a smart financial move—but it’s only effective when you understand how to use it. Knowing how to properly file a claim is just as important as getting the policy in the first place. Whether it’s an auto accident, a hospital emergency, damaged property, or a lost item, claiming your benefits is the main reason you’re insured.
Sadly, many Nigerians lose out on their rightful claims due to poor knowledge of the process. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to file an insurance claim in Nigeria and boost your chances of a smooth payout.
1. Review Your Insurance Policy First
Before starting the claims process, confirm that the incident is covered by your policy. Take time to read:
- What events are covered
- What is excluded from coverage
- The total sum insured or claim limit
- Any waiting period or out-of-pocket deductions (known as excess)
If you’re unsure, reach out to your insurer or broker for guidance before proceeding.
2. Inform Your Insurer Immediately
Timely notification is crucial. Once the event happens—whether it’s an accident, illness, theft, or damage—report it to your insurer within 24 to 48 hours.
You can do this through:
- A phone call to the company’s customer care
- Sending an email with basic incident details
- Logging a complaint via their website or mobile app
- Visiting their office in person
Late reporting, especially for car, health, or travel insurance, may result in your claim being denied.
3. Prepare and Organize Your Documents
To support your claim, you must submit valid documentation. The required papers depend on the type of insurance:
For Car Insurance Claims:
- Police report
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Photos or videos of the accident or damage
- Repair estimate from an accredited workshop
For Health Insurance Claims:
- Medical reports and hospital bills
- Doctor’s prescriptions
- Discharge summary
- Referral letters (if necessary)
For Life Insurance Claims:
- Death certificate
- Filled claim request form
- Proof of identity of the beneficiary
- Original policy document
For Property Insurance Claims:
- Fire, theft, or flood reports from relevant authorities
- Photos of the damage
- Police or fire service reports
- Valuation report of affected assets
Keep photocopies of all documents and store your originals safely.
4. Complete the Claim Form Accurately
Most insurers require you to fill out a claims form, which can often be accessed online or at their office. You’ll need to:
- Provide full personal and policy details
- Describe the incident clearly and accurately
- Attach all necessary documents
Avoid exaggerations or misleading information—this can lead to rejection or legal consequences.
5. Submit Your Claim
Once everything is ready, submit your claim through any of these channels:
- By email
- Through the insurer’s online portal
- By hand-delivery at their office
Ensure you collect an acknowledgment slip or email confirmation as proof of submission.
6. Cooperate with the Investigation Process
Insurance companies may conduct an investigation—especially for high-value or suspicious claims. This may involve:
- Sending an assessor to examine the damages
- Asking for additional information or evidence
- Verifying details from witnesses or other parties
Be transparent and provide any requested information to avoid delays or denials.
7. Await the Insurer’s Decision
After the review process, the insurer will make a decision. The outcomes may include:
- Full claim approval and payout
- Partial payment (if only part of the loss is covered)
- Claim denial (with an explanation provided)
Most Nigerian insurers aim to settle claims within 7 to 30 working days, depending on the case complexity.
8. Follow Up When Necessary
If the claim process is dragging or you haven’t heard back, take action by:
- Calling their customer support
- Sending follow-up emails with your claim reference number
- Visiting the branch office for a physical update
If you believe your claim was unfairly denied or ignored, you can escalate the matter to NAICOM—the National Insurance Commission—for resolution.
Helpful Tips for a Hassle-Free Claims Process
- Always pay your premiums on time
- Keep digital and physical copies of your insurance policy
- Take pictures or videos as evidence after any incident
- File your claim as soon as possible
- Be honest and thorough in your documentation
Conclusion
Filing an insurance claim in Nigeria doesn’t have to be a headache. When you understand your policy, act fast, and provide the right documents, you increase your chances of a smooth and successful claim.
Insurance is there to protect you—but it works best when you know how to work with it. Stay informed, stay prepared, and don’t leave your benefits on the table.
