Insurance claim rejected or delayed? How to challenge it in India
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
A rejection letter is not always the end. Insurers must give written reasons, and you can escalate in steps, most of them free.
When to use this
- The insurer rejected your claim
- The claim has been pending for a long time
- The insurer paid much less than you claimed
Step by step
- 1
Get the rejection reasons in writing
Ask for the rejection letter and the exact policy clause the insurer relies on.
- 2
Write to the grievance officer
Quote the policy and claim numbers, answer each reason with proof such as hospital papers, bills and doctor notes, and ask for a review.
- 3
Escalate on Bima Bharosa
If the insurer does not resolve it, register the complaint on IRDAI's Bima Bharosa portal.
- 4
Approach the Insurance Ombudsman
Free for eligible disputes. Generally you must go within one year of the insurer's final reply.
- 5
Or file at the Consumer Commission
For compensation, send a legal notice and then file online at e-Jagriti.
Key facts
- Keep the policy document, proposal form and every claim letter
- Non-disclosure and waiting-period reasons are often disputed; check the clause
- Ombudsman route is free and needs no lawyer
Get your free action plan
Tell us what happened. We show your options, draft the letters and track every deadline.
Common questions
Can I challenge a rejected health insurance claim?
Yes. Ask for written reasons, reply with proof, and escalate to Bima Bharosa, the Ombudsman or the Consumer Commission.
How long do I have to go to the Ombudsman?
Generally within one year of the insurer's final reply to your complaint.