Free tool
Denial letter decoder
Denial letters are written in the language of the policy, not the language of the loss. Choose every reason yours gives and see what is actually being asserted, what tends to answer it, and what belongs in the file before you respond.
Nothing is submitted, stored, or sent. This tool runs entirely in your browser, and the page address updates so you can save or share the reasons you selected.
What does your letter say?
Letters often give more than one reason. Select each one that appears — every selection is explained below.
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Select one or more reasons from your letter to see what the insurer is asserting, what tends to answer it, and what to gather.
Before you reply to the letter
- Find your policy's suit-limitation deadline and write it down.
- Request, in writing, the specific policy provisions and every report the decision relied on.
- Ask for a complete copy of the policy if you do not already have one.
- Put your response in writing, and keep proof of what you sent and when.
- Do not discard damaged materials or complete repairs before the evidence is documented.
Related
What California law requires of your insurer
The deadlines a denial has to meet, what it must state, and how to escalate — with sources.
California claim guides
Loss-by-loss walkthroughs of how each coverage is valued.
The information on this website is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, and it should not be relied on as a substitute for advice about your specific policy, claim, or circumstances. This tool describes general categories and cannot tell you whether a denial of your claim was correct. Insurance claims and lawsuits are subject to deadlines set by the policy and by law. Delay in seeking advice may affect available options. Insurance claims and lawsuits may be subject to deadlines. If you believe a deadline may be near, do not rely on this form alone. Contact a qualified California attorney promptly. Policyholder Advocates represents clients in California matters only. Nothing on this website is an offer to represent anyone in another state.