How to file an insurance claim
The faster a claim gets reported, the faster it gets paid. Here\'s the order we recommend.
If it\'s an emergency
- Make sure everyone is safe. Get out of the road.
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt or there\'s significant property damage.
- Take photos: damage, license plates, the scene, any visible injuries.
- Exchange names, phone, and insurance with the other parties. Don\'t admit fault at the scene.
- Call your carrier\'s claims line. The number is on your declarations page or on your insurance card.
- Call us at (610) 800-4410 after the carrier has the claim open. We follow up.
For a non-emergency claim
Property damage to a parked vehicle, a tree on your roof, a tool stolen from a job site — call us first if you have time. We open the claim with the carrier on the call, send you the adjuster\'s contact, and check in until the claim closes.
What to have ready
- Your policy number (on your declarations page or insurance card)
- Date, time, and location of the incident
- Names and contact info for anyone else involved
- Photos of damage and the scene
- Police report number if one was filed
We don\'t pay claims — we make them move
The carrier pays the claim. Our role is to coordinate, follow up, and push back if the adjuster moves slowly or the offer is light. That\'s the value of a broker over a direct policy.
Claims FAQ
Should I call CY Financial first or the carrier?
Either is fine. If you call us first, we walk you through the claim form and contact the carrier with you on the line. If you're at a wreck and need to report it immediately, call the carrier and then loop us in afterwards.
How long do I have to file a claim?
Each carrier and policy form sets its own notice period, but the practical answer is: as fast as reasonably possible. Late notice is one of the most common reasons claims get denied or trimmed.
Will my premium go up after a claim?
It depends on the carrier, the type of claim, and whether you were at fault. A not-at-fault claim usually has no rate impact. An at-fault claim does. We re-shop the market at every renewal so a rate jump on one carrier doesn't mean you have to live with it.