Your claim history is a record insurers use to set rates and decide whether to cover you. Frequent or costly claims can raise premiums or lead to non-renewal.
The Short Answer
Your insurance claim history is a record of the claims you have filed, and insurers use it to set your rates and decide whether to cover you. Frequent or costly claims can raise your premium, and a pattern of claims can lead to non-renewal.
What's in Your Claim History
Your claim history includes the claims you have filed on your home and auto policies, including the date, type, and amount paid. Insurers share this information through databases, so a claim you filed years ago can follow you when you shop for a new policy.
It is separate from your credit-based insurance score, though both can influence your premium. Insurers look at your claim history to predict how likely you are to file claims in the future, and they price accordingly.
How to Manage Your Claim History
Not every problem needs to be a claim. For a small loss that is close to or below your deductible, paying out of pocket may be wiser than filing, because a claim stays on your record and can affect your rates for years.
That said, never hide a legitimate claim or delay reporting a serious loss. The right approach is to weigh whether the claim is worth it: if the cost is small and you can comfortably pay it, consider avoiding the claim. For a significant loss, file promptly and document everything.
Smarty's Advice Expert Insight
John Smart (Smarty) · Smarty Home Solutions / eXp Realty Agent, AI Certified Agent
Think Before You File a Small Claim
A claim can raise your premium for years. For a loss near your deductible, weigh paying out of pocket, but always report a serious loss promptly.
John Smart, AI-Certified Agent with eXp Realty helps homeowners across Greater Philadelphia make smart decisions. Call 215-598-6848 or schedule a free consultation.