IRDAI Bima Bharosa: complain about an insurer
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice. · Reviewed by: Ayush Sachan, Advocate, 2026-10-11 · How we review
If an insurer rejects or delays your claim, escalate in steps: the insurer's grievance officer, the Bima Bharosa portal, then the Insurance Ombudsman or the Consumer Commission.
What it handles
- Rejected or delayed health, motor and life claims
- Mis-selling and wrong policy terms
- Premium and refund disputes
How to file
- 1
Write to the insurer's grievance officer
Quote the policy number and claim number, attach the rejection letter and give your reasons.
- 2
Escalate on Bima Bharosa
Register the complaint on IRDAI's portal if the insurer does not resolve it.
- 3
Approach the Insurance Ombudsman
Free for eligible disputes, generally within a year of the insurer's final reply.
- 4
Or file at the Consumer Commission
For compensation, file after a legal notice.
Key facts
- Keep the policy document and every claim letter
- Reasons for rejection must be given in writing
- Ombudsman is free to use
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
Can I challenge a rejected claim?
Yes. Ask for the reasons in writing and escalate through the steps above.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not for the insurer, Bima Bharosa or the Ombudsman. A lawyer helps for a notice or a Commission case.