Insurance Ombudsman: how to complain about an insurer
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
The Insurance Ombudsman settles complaints between policyholders and insurers at no cost. You go there after the insurer has had a chance to resolve the complaint.
What it handles
- Delay or rejection of a claim on health, motor, life or other personal policies
- Disputes about premium or refund
- Mis-selling and non-issue of a policy
How to file
- 1
Complain to the insurer first
Write to its grievance officer and keep the reply. The Ombudsman needs you to have tried this.
- 2
Wait 30 days or for a reply
If the insurer rejects the complaint, partly resolves it or does not answer in 30 days, you can approach the Ombudsman.
- 3
File within one year
File within one year of the insurer's final reply, online through the Council for Insurance Ombudsmen website or by post to the Ombudsman office for your area.
- 4
Take part in the hearing
The Ombudsman first tries a settlement, and can pass an award if it does not work.
Key facts
- Free to use and no lawyer needed
- There is a monetary limit on what the Ombudsman can award; check the current limit when you file
- The Consumer Commission is another route; take advice before choosing both
Read the full guide: Insurance claim rejected or delayed? How to challenge it in India
Not sure this is the right place?
Tell us what happened. We show the right steps in the right order and draft the letters.
Common questions
Is the Insurance Ombudsman free?
Yes. There is no fee to file.
What is the time limit?
Generally one year from the insurer's final reply to your complaint.