How to File a Lost Baggage Insurance Claim

Nothing ruins a vacation like an airline carrier losing your baggage. If you're going on a trip, you might have purchased travel insurance. Some travel insurance policies include lost baggage insurance; if not, you can elect to get this insurance separately. Lost baggage insurance can also cover delayed baggage as well. Here's how to file a lost baggage insurance claim.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Contact the airline carrier within four hours regarding lost baggage. Complete all of the carrier's lost baggage claims requirements. Failure to file a claim with the carrier immediately can result in denial of your insurance claim.

2. Notify the insurance company holding your lost baggage policy of your loss. Some companies require notification within 45 days following the loss of your baggage. You then receive a claims form from the insurance company.

3. Fill out the lost baggage claims form. In some cases, an insurance company may accept a copy of the claims form you filed with the airline carrier as long as your policy number appears on that form.

4. Attach a list of the lost items and the value of each item. Also, include a receipt that your airline carrier handled your baggage.

5. Submit your completed claims form and supporting documentation to your insurance company as soon as possible and no later than 90 days after the date of the reported baggage loss.

Tips & Warnings

• Some airline carriers might suggest waiting one to two weeks before submitting a lost baggage insurance claim, as they find most baggage within a few days.
• Some lost items are not covered in the event of lost baggage. Your lost baggage insurance policy should list items the policy doesn't cover. Make sure to carry these items in your carry-on bag.
• Submit a claim for delayed baggage, if your policy allows. There has been a substantial rise in delayed baggage claims the past few years and many insurance companies offer this as part of their travel insurance packages.