What is the first step in the claims process?

In the claims process, the first step is filing the claim. This is the initial action taken by an insured individual when they believe they have a valid claim under their insurance policy. Filing involves providing notification to the insurance company about the event that has caused the loss or damage, thus formally starting the claims process.

Once the claim is filed, the insurance company can begin their procedures which include investigating the claim, making an adjustment, and evaluating the information to determine whether a payout is warranted. Each of these subsequent steps relies on the initial claim being filed to initiate the process. The act of filing effectively sets everything else in motion, making it the foundational step in the claims process.