Claim processing and handing always seem to garner the most sought-after queries at any insurance firm, as it is the most intrinsic part of an insurance service. Therefore, it is important that you know how it works and how you can get the best benefit from your claim process.

There is a fundamental difference between domestic health insurance vis-à-vis temporary insurance- like visitors’ insurance. While domestic insurance claims are generally straight forward without requiring you to fill out a “claim form” each time you avail a service, visitors’ insurance claims needs you to file for a claim, even if provider directly bills the insurance company.

Why file a claim? – Although it is a well known fact that everyone dislikes extra paperwork, filing a claim is not only an important part of availing the benefits of visitors’ insurance, but also accelerates the process of settling your bills smoothly.

Here are some of the reasons, why you need to file a claim:

1. Verifying the Identity of insured person: The insurance company needs to ascertain the details of the insured individual, like date of birth, name, etc. that only an ID can serve as legitimate proof. The basic identification that visitors to the USA have is their passport, which works both as personal identification, as well as, proof of their legal status as visitors to the US. The insurance company needs to verify the identity and all other related information about the insured person to ensure eligibility of the claim.
   
2. Audit purpose: US government insurance law mandates insurance companies to obtain all and complete documentation in place for any payment that is authorized.
3. Preventing Frauds: It is essential for the insurance companies to ensure that the payment for a claim is genuine. To protect the insurance industry from numerous kinds of fraud, the claim form and the passport information is a pre-requisite that validates
4. Faster Re-Imbursement or Bill Settlement: Since there are multiple decision makers on a claim, having all the details of the insured handy helps insurance companies to effectively communicate with providers facilitating faster and easier claim processes, thus enabling you to get your reimbursement at the earliest.

How to File a Claim

Here are some quick steps to ensure that you’ve filed the claim appropriately:

1. After you have availed a healthcare service, download the appropriate claims forms listed on VisitorsCoverage.com.
2. Fill-in the details of the insured individual completely.
   Include copy of the visitor’s passport page, US entry immigtaion stamped page, before you mail/fax the paperwork to the claims department.
3. Address and sending instructions are stated on the form.
   Ensure that the day you file the claim is well within the specified eligible period listed on your policy. (Generally within 90 days from the day service was availed).
   

Rest assured, no company wants to make consumer processes complex for their valued customers. So, while the insurance company figures out a way to best assist you, you can follow these quick steps to do your bit to help them effectively resolve your claims faster.