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How Do Travel Insurance Claims Work?

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How travel insurance claims work

How to submit your travel insurance claim and get reimbursed, time limits for filing a claim, how long do claim submissions take, how to choose a travel insurance plan, if you need to file a claim from your travel insurer ....

Whether your flight has been canceled, your luggage is lost or you get sick or injured during your trip, travel insurance can protect you. But to get your benefits, you need to submit one or more travelers insurance claims, depending on your situation.

Here's how travel insurance claims work and what to watch out for when submitting your claim.

Travel insurance claims are the system through which a traveler submits documentation to their insurance provider for reimbursement of a covered expense. This reimbursement is not guaranteed; instead, it hinges on the approval of the claim from the insurance underwriter.

In general, the provider will need to verify the situation before remitting any reimbursements to travelers, and the level of coverage varies significantly. Insurance providers typically have very explicit, extensive requirements in order for claims to be confirmed and refunded.

Travel insurance 101 means knowing how travel insurance claims work. Hopefully, you’ll never need to file a claim, but it pays to know the following facts if the worst should happen.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

You must qualify for a covered reason

Insurance companies are very explicit about the situations they will cover, and coverage details vary by company and the type of policy that you've purchased.

In general, the more expensive your policy, the more benefits the policy will offer. While some policies cover only medical emergencies, others cover trip cancellation and interruption , lost or stolen bags, and other losses.

Even though policies can be dense or boring to read, be sure you look at the details of yours so you know what types of situations you're covered for .

The details of your claim matter

The details about your reason for canceling are important, and the specifics will determine your eligibility. For example, you may not be feeling well, but are you sick enough that a doctor would suggest that you cancel your trip? There's a big difference between having a small cough and having pneumonia.

You may have to go through extra steps, like seeing a doctor, to prove your eligibility.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

Reservations must be nonrefundable to qualify for cancellation benefits

When you’re traveling on miles and points, you can receive medical, trip delay and lost luggage benefits from a travel insurance policy you purchase. But if you want reimbursement for a canceled flight, travel insurance only covers nonrefundable expenses.

This prevents travelers from trying to "double-dip" and get a refund from both the airline and the travel insurance company.

Keep cancellation policies in mind before purchasing travel insurance. If you’re flying Southwest Airlines, which offers easy changes and refunds, and if your hotel has a 24-hour cancellation policy and you don’t have many activities booked in advance, you may not need travel insurance. The more flexible your plans, the less need you will have for travel insurance.

Claims should be submitted as soon as possible

Being proactive and timely with your claim ensures you won’t miss any deadlines that the travel insurance company may have. You don't want to go through the entire claims process only to find out that you missed the deadline by a few days. Instead, start your claim as soon as you can.

Organization is your friend

The travel insurance company will require documentation to support your claim, so you'll want to be organized as you collect the necessary records.

To stay organized with your documents, set up a folder in your email account for relevant messages, keep all paper receipts in an envelope and write down details of every conversation.

Many travelers digitize everything to make it easier to submit documents via email or an online portal. Your documentation should show that you have a valid claim that meets the insurance company requirements.

Time limits for filing a travelers insurance claim vary from company to company, so it is wise to refer to your specific policy to ensure you have a clear idea of the timeframe. Overall, most companies require claim submissions within 3 months of the incident.

For instance, according to insurance provider Seven Corners , "You must file your claim within 90 days of the incident, also known as the timely filing limit."

After you've submitted your claim — and assuming you have provided all of the required documentation and other elements — it can take up to two weeks for your reimbursement to be remitted.

Generally speaking, you should expect communication regarding your claim within that same timeframe. This could be to alert you of your claim's approval or to ask for additional evidence.

The more complex your travel insurance claim, the longer your approval and reimbursement process may take.

If your claim is approved, expect to receive a check or direct deposit of the amount owed.

Shop around if you’re looking to purchase a travel insurance plan. There are many online providers of travel insurance and the coverage amounts, limits, exclusions and other offerings can vary widely from provider to provider, not to mention policy to policy — even within the same company.

A comparison tool, like SquareMouth , can help you filter results based on what is important to you. You can filter your search to find policies that cover trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage, medical treatment or other needs. You can then compare the cost of one policy against others based on your preferences and budget.

Travel insurance offers valuable protection in case something goes wrong with your travel plans. Your policy benefits will vary based on the level of coverage purchased and which company is offering the protection. When evaluating travel insurance providers, learn about their claims process should the worst-case scenario come true.

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How to Make The Most of a Travel Insurance Claim

More travelers are buying insurance. If your trip is canceled, take these steps to increase your chances of recovery.

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 The same tricky travel climate that can derail vacation plans abruptly is also starting to overwhelm the insurers compensating travelers for those disruptions. Changing pandemic protocols in the U.S. and abroad, COVID spread, nonrefundable reservations, and canceled or delayed flights made travel insurance a desirable—sometimes even required—safety net.          In a recent survey, travel insurer Allianz Partners USA found that 90% of its customers said they’re likely to buy travel insurance for their next trip. And Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site that also tracks trip insurance purchases in real time, reports that 42% of summer 2022 travelers specifically sought out coverage for contracting COVID-19, including cancellation, medical and quarantine benefits. That number represents a nearly 10% jump from the same time last year.        More buyers of the insurance mean more claims. Squaremouth’s data analysis shows a whopping 235% increase in claims from January to June this year, compared to the same time frame in 2019. And experts warn that volume, filing errors and confusion are clogging the system and producing delays. What previously took days or weeks to process could now potentially take months, industry watchers say. “The majority of claims are from travelers who contract COVID-19 either before or during their trip,” says Megan Moncrief, chief marketing officer at Squaremouth. “This is causing extended claims processing times throughout the industry.”           Contributing to the spike in claims is that many U.S.-based insurance providers expanded their standard policies to cover cancellations or delays due to illness, individually ordered quarantines, denied boardings and other events caused by COVID-19 or future epidemics. Previously, only a pricier policy upgrade, Cancel for Any Reason, offered worried travelers such broad protection that it would have covered disruptions from pandemics, but that peace of mind generally increases a policy’s premium 40% to 50%.        With claims expected to continue rolling in at an blistering pace, how can travelers expedite a claim and avoid mistakes that can prolong resolution? Here are some tips to keep in mind.  

10 Things to Know About Hurricane Insurance Claims

 Know what counts as proof of COVID 

 Moncrief calls this “the biggest misconception” right now. Many travelers who contract COVID misunderstand the documentation required to verify the diagnosis when making a claim. An at-home test usually isn’t enough, she says. In most cases, insurers want to see a PCR, or a test given by a medical professional, along with a doctor’s note confirming a positive result. What’s more, self-isolation due to exposure typically is not covered, she says. 

 Understand policy coverage and benefit limits 

 Let’s say you fall ill and are unable to return home as planned. Most policies can cover meals and accommodations for your delayed departure, as well as transportation expenses. But “this is not an unlimited pot of money,” Moncrief says. The typical benefit might range from $1,000 to $2,000 per traveler, with a daily limit. To minimize out-of-pocket expenses, know exactly what the threshold is and spend accordingly.  

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 Don’t get tripped up by vouchers 

 Often, airlines will offer a voucher for future travel (in lieu of a refund, to which you are always entitled) when a flight or booking is canceled. But is the reason for the dropped flight covered by your travel insurance policy? If it is, you must decline the voucher and cancel the flight outright to claim that expense. Squaremouth notes that insurers are denying more claims because some travelers accept the voucher and then try to claim the cost of the flight. 

  Document everything 

 When you’re filing a claim, proof is everything. Before they can process a claim, travel insurers will need all the evidence that proves your loss. Keep cash and credit card receipts for expenses you incur, and gather documentation. For example, a statement from the airline about lost luggage along with an inventory detailing the value of what was lost may be sufficient for reimbursement, and a diagnostic note from a doctor may satisfy medical claims. Take photos of that proof in case the paper copies are misplaced or lost. 

 Report promptly 

 Expedite a claim by filing as soon as possible and submit it via email or the insurer’s online portal. The time frame for filing a claim varies depending on the company and the policy, but the clock starts ticking from the date of your loss. Typically, there’s a 90-day window to submit a claim and documentation, although some insurers shrink that time frame.           A last note: If you book a trip with a credit card that offers travel insurance, you may be able to recoup some costs, perhaps related to cancellation, interruption or delayed or lost baggage. Not all cards, however, have the same coverage, and each will set strict limits. Check the benefits guide for your specific credit card to determine the scope of coverage it guarantees and the rules for making a claim 

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Filing a Travel Insurance Claim: Step by Step Guide

Last Updated: March 8, 2023 October 4, 2023

In a perfect world, there would be such a thing as risk-free travel. Unfortunately, no matter what type of trip we are planning, there’s always the chance that things go wrong. Travel insurance exists to offer protection from the unexpected, and mitigate the financial risks associated with traveling. 

In the unfortunate event that you encounter travel issues, it’s important to know the steps needed to be reimbursed by your travel insurance provider through filing a claim. 

How to Claim Travel Insurance

Having to file a travel insurance claim can seem like a bothersome, daunting process. However, it doesn’t have to be.

If you’ve experienced travel disruptions or need to be reimbursed for other covered reasons, there are steps you can take today to begin filing your claim and make the process as seamless as possible. Squaremouth breaks down how travel insurance claims work.

Step 1: Review Your Policy Details 

This step should really be done well before you get to the stage of filing a claim. Whether you have a single trip or annual plan, understanding your travel insurance policy is crucial when determining if you are entitled to reimbursement. In fact, misunderstanding coverage is one of the most common reasons for denied travel insurance claims.

To review your policy details, it’s recommended to read your travel insurance certificate. This would have been sent to you shortly after purchasing your policy. The certificate details the benefits, coverage limits, and any important exclusions found in your specific policy.

For example, this certificate will outline how long you must be delayed before coverage kicks in, and how much medical reimbursement you may be entitled to. In addition, these policy details will also include the contact information of your provider, should you need to file a claim.

Step 2: Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

If your trip is impacted and you believe you are eligible for reimbursement, it’s advised to get in touch with your provider as soon as reasonably possible. For example, in the event you experience a medical emergency, you should seek treatment first, and call your insurance company when you are able to. 

The reason it’s important to contact your travel insurance provider early on in the process is because they are able to provide important policy information in real-time. They will be able to offer advice, inform you on coverage options, and help guide you through the start of the claims process.

Step 3: Get Your Documents in Order

When filing, you will need to have evidence that supports your claim. For this reason, it’s important to have all documentation related to your loss. This includes any receipts related to expenses you’ve paid and any refunds you may have received. 

Documents that may be relevant to your claim include: 

• Airline, hotel, rental car, and excursions receipts
• Cancellation notices from prepaid bookings
• Delay notices from airlines
• Medical and emergency services bills
• Notes from licensed physicians 
• Correspondence with relevant parties
• Police reports
• Unused tickets
• Refunds received during your trip

Keeping either physical or digital copies of the above documents, as well as any other applicable files, will help make the claims process as smooth as possible.

Step 4: File Your Claim

Once you’ve contacted your insurance provider and collected all relevant documentation, you can now submit your claims form to your travel insurance provider. 

Most travel insurance companies allow policyholders to file a claim over the phone, through their website, or through their app if they have one. As you go through the process, your provider will clearly outline what’s needed in each step, and will contact you if any additional items are needed.

In most cases, it’s most efficient to file your claim online. That way, you can upload your documentation digitally all at once, rather than relying on email.

How Long Does A Travel Insurance Claim Take?

The timeframe of your specific claim will largely depend on the provider, the complexity of your claim, and how quickly the provider receives all necessary documentation. 

Being knowledgeable of your policy and organized are two great ways to give yourself the best chance of a quick and easy claims process.

What If My Travel Insurance Claim is Denied?

If you feel your claim was incorrectly denied, there are actions that you can take to try and correct the decision. 

First, you may have an opportunity to file an appeal with your insurance provider. If your claim was rejected because you filed the claim incorrectly, did not attach required documentation, or made mistakes when filling out a form, you should get in contact with your provider to remedy the situation.

Another way to protect yourself from denied claims is to purchase a policy with a Zero Complaint Guarantee , a level of security attached to every policy bought through Squaremouth. With the Zero Complaint Guarantee, our licensed claims adjusters will investigate your case and mediate with your provider on your behalf.

If all else fails, travelers may also file a complaint with their state’s Department of Insurance. This service is designed to investigate cases where consumers have been wrongfully denied a claim by their insurance provider. This process is not guaranteed to overturn a claim decision, but offers another layer of protection for travelers in the event their case was rejected.

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How to File a Travel Insurance Claim Online

Tips for filing your travel insurance claim

Even with an easy-to-follow online solution, filing any insurance claim is hardly an everyday experience. If you need additional assistance while submitting your claim, don’t hesitate to reach out to Allianz Global Assistance’s team of travel insurance experts at 1-866-907-3045.

We even took some time to chat with our team members to learn about some of the common errors travelers make when filing claims so that we could pass them onto you. These mistakes include failing to check your travel insurance plan’s benefit limits. You’ll want to eyeball your plan’s benefit limits for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses as well as add up the value of your packing list. It might impact which travel insurance plan you pick — or whether you wear that nice dress on the plane or pack it in checked baggage. Another area that’s sometimes overlooked is submitting all required documents for a claim. As noted above, we’ve prepared lists of all the critical items for each type of claim. ( See other common travel insurance claim errors here .) 3

Don’t forget, once you submit your claim, you’re going to want to check its status. There are a few ways to do so, including checking online — or even easier — using our Allyz ®  TravelSmart app .

When travel plans go south, you just want to be able to pick up the pieces, quickly and easily. After all, that’s why you purchased a travel insurance plan. At Allianz Global Assistance, we’ve designed our claims process to be “smooth sailing” – even if your getaway wasn’t.

Related Articles

• Four Insider Tips for Filing a Travel Insurance Claim
• 7 Receipts You May Need to File a Travel Insurance Claim
• What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
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Travel Insurance Claims: 4 Tips to File a Claim

How do travel insurance claims work?

Travel insurance claims work like most insurance claims.

You’ll fill out the insurance company’s claim forms, which will include information like your name, policy number, travel dates, the reason for filing the claim, and the date of the claim.

You will then submit it with the necessary documentation to support your claim for reimbursement. This coule include documentation from a doctor (for cancellation claims for sickness), flight delay notices, police reports, etc. Basically, anything that proves you suffered a loss.

The travel insurance plan provider will review your claim and process the documents you submitted. They will often have follow questions or requests. After that, you’ll receive reimbursement.

This makes it sound simple, but there are a few things you can do to make it successful (and easier):

4 Tips to File a Travel Insurance Claim

When it comes time to file a claim, you want to be fully prepared to expedite the claims process. The following are some tips starting from the time a situation first arises until you submit your claim. 

1.  Trip cancellation claims for medical issues must be supported by a doctor

For pre-trip cancellations due to sickness or illness , you will need to see a doctor and obtain documentation that you are too ill to travel. The document you need is a full diagnosis or a “Physician’s Statement”.

Why do you need to see a doctor?

You need to prove to the travel insurance company that a doctor told you you could not take your trip, thereby making the cancellation a covered claim.

This is true even if you have a pre-existing condition, have purchased the pre-existing medical condition waiver , and know how to treat your condition. Again, it’s about proving it to the insurance company.

Skipping this step is one of the biggest mistakes people make with travel insurance claims.

2. Medical emergency claims must be supported by a doctor

You may have a medical emergency during your trip as well. This could be a slip & fall, heart attack, or even food poisoning.

If the situation is an immediate emergency, please seek medical attention immediately.

While it is important to contact your travel insurance company as soon as possible, you also want to take care of immediate medical concerns first.

Once the emergency is under control, contact the travel insurance company and inform them of the situation. They will be able to provide guidance regarding the best hospital to receive care, arranging care and transportation, and even serving as a translator in foreign countries.

3. Contact your travel insurance company as soon as possible

Claims and claim questions should be made directly to your travel insurance company.

For medical situations, handle any immediate needs to make sure everyone is safe.

The next call should be to your travel insurance company.

Do not make assumptions about your coverage and claims. Make sure you are taking the correct steps by calling the travel insurance company, informing them of the situation, and following their guidance.

They will be able to advise you in regards to treatment, documentation, and how to expedite the process.

In addition, travel insurance companies provide 24/7 assistance to help you when you need it.

Take advantage of this service. They will contact local medical facilities on your behalf and make arrangements. They can also provide translation services, if needed.

4. Save documentation for everything

It is very important to save documentation for everything you can. The insurance company will obviously need proof of expenses, amounts you have paid, and any refunds you may have received.

The more documentation the better.

Also keep track of personnel you deal with at the insurance company, including an operator number and/or first and last name.

Documentation you will need to support your claim

The rule of thumb here: Document and save everything.

If you have digital copies in email or when signed into websites, do not delete them. Save paper copied and even consider taking digital pictures of them. Bank statements with charges can be useful too.

Here are some examples of what you might need to submit:

• receipts and itemized bills for all expenses (trip cancellation)
• unused tickets, proof of payments (trip cancellation)
• explanation of diagnosis from doctor (medical claims) or “Physician’s Statement”
• police reports (stolen baggage or car collisions)
• proof from airline that baggage was delayed

Most Common Mistakes to Avoid While Filing a Travel Insurance Claim

When you fill out a travel insurance claim, you’ll most likely be filing the travel claim online. Part of that process includes scanning and uploading the documents like physician’s statements, receipts, and reports that support your claim.

The most common mistakes travelers make when filing a travel insurance claim include:

• Failing to fill out the form correctly (this happens more often than you might think).
• Forgetting to provide accurate contact information (so the insurance company can call if they have questions).
• Failing to include the documentation needed to support their claim.
• Claiming reimbursement for events not covered by the insurance plan.

Major Reasons Why Travel Insurance Claims are Denied

Just like any other insurance provider, travel insurance providers have the right to deny claims for events that are not covered by the plan. Once your claim is submitted, a representative will review the details you provided and the supporting documentation and determine whether your claim will be paid or not.

The most common reasons travel insurance providers deny claims include:

• Misinformation, even unintentional mistakes, in the claim form.
• Inaccurate contact information.
• Lack of documentation needed to support the claim.
• Claims for events that are not covered by the insurance plan.
• Seeing a doctor is essential for all pre- and post departure medical issues
• Seeing a doctor is essential even if it’s a pre-existing condition and you know how to treat it
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible
• Save all documentation

Related topics

• Travel Insurance Claims: The Complete Guide
• The Beginner’s Guide to Travel Insurance
• How do I know if I need pre-existing coverage?

Understanding how travel insurance claims are paid

DamianTysdal

Damian Tysdal is the founder of CoverTrip, and is a licensed agent for travel insurance (MA 1883287). He believes travel insurance should be easier to understand, and started the first travel insurance blog in 2006.

• 17 October 2021

Important Tips for Making a Successful Claim

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• How do I make a travel insurance claim? Uswitch explains

How do I make a travel insurance claim?

Making a travel insurance claim can go some way towards recovering the cost of holiday disasters and emergencies.

It's best to book travel insurance as soon as you book your holiday. This way you are covered even before you jet off, in case your holiday needs to be cancelled or there are flight delays. Leaving it to the last minute could be a costly risk and expense.

Useful things to remember before you set off include:

Take a copy of your insurance documents with you.

Keep copies of the receipts for valuable items that you may be taking with you.

Make sure you use secure padlocks for your suitcases.

These FAQs can help you work out what to do when things go wrong, and you need to do to make an insurance claim.

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When do I need to contact my insurer?

If you need to claim for medical services and treatment you will need to contact your insurer immediately to get authorisation for the treatment or for an expert to take over managing your treatment, including hospitalisation.

It's important to contact your insurer as soon as you can, as some insurers insist that you let them know about your intention to claim within a time limit. Many travel insurers have an international helpline.

Some insurers have their own clinics and medics in certain resorts. Others will send trained medical staff to you, if needed, to work with the local doctors and nurses and to help bring you home.

If you are robbed or injured by someone you will need to have reported it to the police and have a crime reference number and a copy of the police report. If you need to spend money as part of the claim, keep all the receipts.

Tip: Save your travel insurer’s international claim number in your phone as soon as possible, along with your policy number. Keep a copy in your passport. Make sure your next of kin at home - not on holiday with you - has your travel insurance details, in case you are all involved in an accident and are in hospital.

What will the insurer do first?

The insurer will have appointed a claims management firm who will decide the best way to help - that is who you will speak to if you call the help/claims number. 

If you feel ill while on holiday they may provide a UK doctor for you to speak to and give advice. If they feel you need to go to hospital they may even identify the best hospital for your particular symptoms, call and make arrangements, including transport for you to get there.

If you find yourself in hospital the claims management firm will deal direct with the hospital on your behalf. They will also make any necessary arrangements for your return to home.

If you are robbed or lose items, you will probably want to wait until you get home to claim, but it may be possible to complete an online claims form and attach receipts while you are poolside, if that suits you.

If you have injured someone or damaged property it will be best to report at once. The claims management firms will appoint a local solicitor if you need one.

For any aspect of a claim you may be asked to provide more details later, including filling out a paper form if drawings, maps, diagrams or further details are required.

Insurers may also choose to replace items, rather than refund you the cost of replacing them. They will also ask for details of your home contents insurance so they can share some claims costs (all risk items) with your other insurer.

What do I need to send the insurer?

The insurer will usually need to see receipts for lost or damaged items, additional travel or other emergency expenditure that is covered.

The insurer will also want to see a police report if you are the victim of a crime. In the event of a flight being cancelled, you may need written confirmation from the airline.

If you claim for an expensive item, the insurer will want to see the original receipt showing when you purchased that item and may ask to see evidence, such as photos taken with an expensive camera.

They will also ask for details of your home contents insurance to check if they can share some claims costs with your other insurer. If items were also covered on your home contents policy you can only claim once and the insurers share the costs.

What can I claim for?

You need to check the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to be aware of what you’re covered for. If you've taken expensive items with you, then you should try to keep a copy of the receipt with you.

Travel insurance will usually pay out:

If your holiday is delayed, cancelled or disrupted or you have to end it early (curtail) for a raft of different reasons. 

If your baggage or any personal items are damaged, lost or stolen. 

Any liabilities you face because you accidentally hurt or injure somebody or damaged their property.

Medical treatment, emergency ambulances or other transport, repatriation home or visits to you by family members, revised travel arrangements.

If you need to sue somebody else, such as for a failure of service, or for injuring you.

Do I need to inform the police?

If you lose an item, or if something is stolen, many insurers insist that you get a police report within 24 hours of the incident.

It's always important to know the number for the emergency services, for whichever country you're travelling to. Some resorts and towns have specific police stations with English speakers to handle tourist reports.

How much can I claim?

You need to check your travel insurance policy for the details of how much you can claim. Every policy is different, and there may be an upper limit on how much you can claim. There is often an upper limit for individual items.

There may also be an excess amount, which you might have to pay in advance, or will be deducted from your payout. This information should be in your policy.

What do I need to remember?

Make sure you keep a copy of any physical claims form once you've filled it in. You should also keep copies of the relevant receipts. This is particularly important if you're still travelling, as you might need the originals to continue travelling.

Don't assume all travel insurance policies are the same. If you've changed to a different insurance company, be sure you know what your policy covers, and the terms and conditions.

Be truthful when applying for insurance and making a claim, as misinformation could greatly impact your travel insurance claim.

*To help you compare travel insurance policies and find the right cover for your requirements, Uswitch has selected  theIdol.com  to provide you with quotes. Quotations are provided by  theIdol.com  on a non-advised basis. This means that no advice is given or implied and you are solely responsible for deciding whether the policy is suitable for your needs.  theIdol.com  is a trading name of Investment Discounts Online Ltd and is registered in England and Wales, registration number 04231834. Registered address One Coleman Street, London, EC2R 5AA. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 197451. Investment Discounts On-Line Ltd is part of the Legal & General Group. This can be confirmed at  http://www.fca.org.uk/ . View  theIdol.com 's  Our Services Document ,  Privacy policy  and  Terms & Conditions .

Read More ...

• 10 strange travel insurance claims
• What does travel insurance really cover?
• Do I need travel insurance?

Your Trip Didn't Go As Planned? Here's How To File A Claim With Your Travel Insurance

L et's paint an all too familiar picture. You've been carefully planning that dream trip and mapping out each detail, from flights to hotels. But life, as it often does, throws a curveball. Suddenly, you're dealing with lost luggage, a non-refundable hotel room you can't use, or -- to make matters worse -- an unexpected illness.

That's when buying travel insurance comes into play, a financial safety net for unexpected trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Travel insurance can make the difference between a total loss and a simple mishap while ensuring you're not left out in the cold and footing the bill.

But filing a claim with your travel insurance company can send you for a spin, especially when you're already dealing with the stress of disrupted travel plans. That's why understanding how, when, and where to file a claim when things go haywire is so important -- and might even increase your chances of getting that money back.

Filing A Travel Insurance Claim

With its fine print, novel-long contracts, and industry jargon, understanding your travel insurance policy can be daunting. Luckily, most providers are clear about what they cover and don't from the get-go. As a rule of thumb, generic travel insurance plans typically take care of baggage delays or losses, accidental death, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and non-refundable bookings. Beyond that, more comprehensive policies like the ones by World Nomads and Allianz can also cover adventure sports, car collisions, and pre-existing conditions.

Once you've figured out if your situation qualifies within the scope of your plan, the most important thing is to file a claim quickly and efficiently. Many insurance providers impose strict deadlines -- often within 20 to 90 days of the incident, which means time is of the essence! Contact your travel insurance provider immediately after an incident to notify them and express your intention to file a claim.

Then, gather all the necessary documentation to back up what you've told them. This may include everything from medical records to police reports, receipts, confirmation emails, or any other paperwork that support your claim. After submitting your case and paperwork, you can expect to hear back from your provider within two weeks on whether or not your claim has been accepted and when you can expect to receive reimbursement.

Choosing The Right Travel Insurance Provider

When it comes to choosing a travel insurance provider, it's not as simple as picking the plan with the lowest premium. Let's face it: cheap travel insurance isn't always better, and it's worth paying a little extra to make sure you're properly being looked after. After all, peace of mind while traveling is priceless, and the right travel insurance provider can provide just that.

Using comparison tools like SquareMouth , take your time to dive deep into each policy to see what's covered and what's not, and to learn more about the insurer's reputation, their claim handling process, and the flexibility of their plans.

Lastly, don't hesitate to ask questions. If you're unsure about anything, contact the provider for clarification. At the end of the day, the right travel insurance provider won't just sell you a policy -- they'll take the time to educate and support you, so you can be confident about your coverage and jet off without a worry.

Read this next: Hotel Reservation Mistakes You Didn't Know You Were Making

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Travel Insurance

Cheapest travel insurance of April 2024

Mandy Sleight

Heidi Gollub

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 9:52 a.m. UTC April 11, 2024

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WorldTrips is the best cheap travel insurance company of 2024 based on our in-depth analysis of the cheapest travel insurance plans. Its Atlas Journey Preferred and Atlas Journey Premier plans offer affordable travel insurance with high limits for emergency medical and evacuation benefits bundled with good coverage for trip delays, travel inconvenience and missed connections.

Cheapest travel insurance of 2024

Why trust our travel insurance experts

Our team of travel insurance experts analyzes hundreds of insurance products and thousands of data points to help you find the best travel insurance for your next trip. We use a data-driven methodology to determine each rating. Advertisers do not influence our editorial content . You can read more about our methodology below.

• 1,855 coverage details evaluated.
• 567 rates reviewed.
• 5 levels of fact-checking.

Best cheap travel insurance

Top-scoring plans

Average cost, medical limit per person, medical evacuation limit per person, why it’s the best.

WorldTrips tops our rating of the cheapest travel insurance with two plans:

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheaper travel insurance plan of the two, with $100,000 per person in emergency medical benefits as secondary coverage and an optional upgrade to primary coverage. It’s also our pick for the best travel insurance for cruises .
• Atlas Journey Premier costs a little more but gives you $150,000 in travel medical insurance with primary coverage . This is a good option if health insurance for international travel is a priority.

Pros and cons

• Atlas Journey Preferred is the cheapest of our 5-star travel insurance plans.
• Atlas Journey Premier offers $150,000 in primary medical coverage.
• Both plans have top-notch $1 million per person in medical evacuation coverage.
• Each plan offers travel inconvenience coverage of $750 per person.
• 12 optional upgrades, including destination wedding and rental car damage and theft.
• No non-medical evacuation coverage.

Cheap travel insurance for cruises

Travel insured.

Top-scoring plan

Travel Insured offers cheap travel insurance for cruises and its Worldwide Trip Protector plan gets 4 stars in our rating of the best cruise travel insurance .

• Worldwide Trip Protector offers $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage per person and a rare $150,000 in non-medical evacuation per person. It also has primary coverage for travel medical insurance benefits, which means you won’t have to file medical claims with your health insurance first.
• Cheap trip insurance for cruises.
• Offers a rare $150,000 for non-medical evacuation.
• $500 per person baggage delay benefit only requires a 3-hour delay.
• Optional rental car damage benefit up to $50,000.
• Missed connection benefit of $500 per person only available for cruises and tours.

Best cheap travel insurance for families

Travelex has the best cheap travel insurance for families because kids age 17 are covered by your policy for free when they’re traveling with you.

• Free coverage for children 17 and under on the same policy.
• $2,000 travel delay coverage per person ($250 per day) after 5 hours.
• Hurricane and weather coverage after a common carrier delay of any amount of time.
• Only $50,000 per person emergency medical coverage.
• Baggage delay coverage is only $200 and requires a 12-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for seniors

Evacuation limit per person

Nationwide has the best cheap travel insurance for seniors — its Prime plan gets 4 stars in our best senior travel insurance rating. However, Nationwide’s Cruise Choice plan ranks higher in our best cheap travel insurance rating.

• Cruise Choice has a $500 per person benefit if a cruise itinerary change causes you to miss a prepaid excursion. It also has a missed connections benefit of $1,500 per person after only a 3-hour delay, for cruises or tours. But note that this coverage is secondary coverage to any compensation provided by a common carrier.
• Coverage for cruise itinerary changes, ship-based mechanical breakdowns and covered shipboard service disruptions.
• Non-medical evacuation benefit of $25,000 per person.
• Baggage loss benefits of $2,500 per person.
• Travel medical coverage is secondary.
• Trip cancellation benefit for losing your job requires three years of continuous employment.
• No “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) upgrade available.
• Missed connection coverage of $1,500 per person is only for tours and cruises, after a 3-hour delay.

Best cheap travel insurance for add-on options

AIG offers the best cheap travel insurance for add-on options because the Travel Guard Preferred plan allows you to customize your policy with a host of optional upgrades.

• Travel Guard Preferred upgrades include “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage , rental vehicle damage coverage and bundles that offer additional benefits for adventure sports, travel inconvenience, quarantine, pets, security and weddings. There’s also a medical bundle that increases the travel medical benefit to $100,000 and emergency evacuation to $1 million.
• Bundle upgrades allow you to customize your affordable travel insurance policy.
• Emergency medical and evacuation limits can be doubled with optional upgrade.
• Base travel insurance policy has relatively low medical limits.
• $300 baggage delay benefit requires a 12-hour delay.
• Optional CFAR upgrade only reimburses up to 50% of trip cost.

Best cheap travel insurance for missed connections

TravelSafe has the best cheap travel insurance for missed connections because coverage is not limited to cruises and tours, as it is with many policies.

• Best-in-class $2,500 per person in missed connection coverage.
• $1 million per person in medical evacuation and $25,000 in non-medical evacuation coverage.
• Generous $2,500 per person baggage and personal items loss benefit.
• Most expensive of the best cheap travel insurance plans.
• No “interruption for any reason” coverage available.
• Weak baggage delay coverage of $250 per person after 12 hours.

Cheapest travel insurance comparison

How much does the cheapest travel insurance cost?

The cheapest travel insurance in our rating is $334. This is for a WorldTrips Atlas Journey Preferred travel insurance plan, based on the average of seven quotes for travelers of various ages to international destinations with a range of trip values.  

Factors that determine travel insurance cost

There are several factors that determine the cost of travel insurance, including:

• Age and number of travelers being insured.
• Trip length.
• Total trip cost.
• The travel insurance plan you choose.
• The travel insurance company.
• Any add-ons, features or upgraded benefits you include in the travel insurance plan.

Expert tip: “In general, travelers can expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 10% of their total prepaid, non-refundable trip costs,” said Suzanne Morrow, CEO of InsureMyTrip.

Is buying the cheapest travel insurance a good idea?

Choosing cheaper travel insurance without paying attention to what a plan covers and excludes could leave you underinsured for your trip. Comparing travel insurance plans side-by-side can help ensure you get enough coverage to protect yourself financially in an emergency for the best price. 

For example, compare these two Travelex travel insurance plans:

• Travel Basic is cheaper but it only provides up to $15,000 for emergency medical expense coverage. You’ll also have to pay extra for coverage for children.
• Travel Select will cost you a bit more but it covers up to $50,000 in medical expenses and includes coverage for kids aged 17 and younger traveling with you. It also offers upgrades such additional medical coverage, “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage and an adventure sports rider that may be a good fit for your trip.

Reasons to consider paying more for travel insurance 

Make sure you understand what you’re giving up if you buy the cheapest travel insurance. Here are a few reasons you may consider paying a little extra for better coverage. 

• Emergency medical. The best travel medical insurance offers primary coverage for emergency medical benefits. Travel insurance with primary coverage can cost more than secondary coverage but will save you from having to file a claim with your health insurance company before filing a travel insurance claim.
• Emergency evacuation. If you’re traveling to a remote location or planning a boat excursion on your trip, look at travel insurance with a high medical evacuation insurance limit. If you are injured while traveling, transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility could cost in the tens to hundreds of thousands. It may make sense to pay more for travel insurance with robust emergency evacuation coverage. 
• Flexibility. To maximize your trip flexibility, you might consider upgrading your travel insurance to “ cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage . This will increase the cost of your travel insurance but allow you to cancel your trip for any reason — not just those listed in your policy. The catch is that you’ll need to cancel at least 48 hours before your trip and will only be reimbursed 50% or 75% of your trip expenses, depending on the plan. 
• Upgrades. Many travel insurance plans have optional extras like car rental collision and adventure sports (which may otherwise be excluded from coverage). These will cost you extra but may give you the coverage you need. 

How to find the cheapest travel insurance

The best way to find the cheapest travel insurance is to determine what you’re looking for in a travel insurance policy and compare plans that meet your needs.

 “Travel insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs, wants and concerns. This is why comparison is key,” said Morrow.

Consider the following factors when comparing cheap travel insurance plans.

• How often you’re traveling. A single-trip policy may be the most cost-effective if you’re only going on a single trip this year. But a multi-trip travel insurance plan may be cheaper if you’re going on multiple international trips throughout the year. Annual travel insurance policies cover you for a whole year as long as each trip doesn’t exceed a certain number of days, usually 30 to 90 days. 
• Credit card has travel insurance benefits. The best credit cards offer perks and benefits, and many offer travel insurance-specific benefits. The coverage types and benefit limits can vary, and you must put the entire trip cost on the credit card to use the coverage. If your trip costs more than the coverage limit on your card, you can supplement the rest with a cheaper travel insurance plan.
• The coverage you need. When looking for the best travel insurance option at the most affordable price, only buy extras and upgrades you really need. A basic plan may only provide up to $500 in baggage insurance, but if you only plan to take $300 worth of clothes and accessories, you don’t need to pay more for higher coverage limits.

Is cheap travel insurance worth it?

Cheap travel insurance can be worth it, as long as you understand the plan limitations and exclusions. Taking the time to read your policy, especially the fine print, well before your trip can ensure there won’t be any surprises about what’s covered once your journey begins.

“If a traveler is looking for coverage for travel delays, cancellations, interruptions, medical and baggage — a comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide the most bang for their buck,” said Morrow. But if you’re on a tight budget and are only worried about emergency medical care and evacuation coverage while traveling abroad, stand-alone options are cheaper.

Before buying travel insurance, you should also consider what your health insurance will cover. 

“Most domestic health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover medical bills abroad,” said Morrow. Even if you’re staying stateside, you may find value in an affordable travel insurance plan with medical coverage if you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). 

A cheap travel insurance plan is better than none at all if you end up in a situation that would have covered some or all of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses.

Methodology

Our insurance experts reviewed 1,855 coverage details and 567 rates to determine the best travel insurance . From those top-scoring travel insurance plans, we chose the most affordable for our rating of the cheapest travel insurance.

Insurers could score up to 100 points based on the following factors:

• Cost: 40 points. We scored the average cost of each travel insurance policy for a variety of trips and traveler profiles.
• Medical expenses: 10 points. We scored travel medical insurance by the coverage amount available. Travel insurance policies with emergency medical expense benefits of $250,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Medical evacuation: 10 points. We scored each plan’s emergency medical evacuation coverage by coverage amount. Travel insurance policies with medical evacuation expense benefits of $500,000 or more per person were given the highest score of 10 points.
• Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver: 10 points. We gave full points to travel insurance policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions if certain conditions are met.
• Missed connection: 10 points. Travel insurance plans with missed connection benefits of $1,000 per person or more received full points.
• “Cancel for any reason” upgrade: 5 points. We gave points to travel insurance plans with optional “cancel for any reason” coverage that reimburses up to 75%.
• Travel delay required waiting time: 5 points. We gave 5 points to travel insurance policies with travel delay benefits that kick in after a delay of 6 hours or less.
• Cancel for work reasons: 5 points. If a travel insurance plan allows you to cancel your trip for work reasons, such as your boss requiring you to stay and work, we gave it 5 points.
• Hurricane and severe weather: 5 points. Travel insurance plans that have a required waiting period for hurricane and weather coverage of 12 hours or less received 5 points.

Some travel insurance companies may offer plans with additional benefits or lower prices than the plans that scored the highest, so make sure to compare travel insurance quotes to see your full range of options.

Cheapest travel insurance FAQs

When buying travel insurance, cheapest is not always the best. The most affordable travel insurance plans typically offer fewer coverages with lower policy limits and few or no optional upgrades. Add up your total nonrefundable trip costs and compare travel insurance plans and available features that cover your travel expenses. This strategy can help you find the cheapest travel insurance policy that best protects you from financial loss if an unforeseen circumstance arises.

Get the coverage you need: Best travel insurance of 2024

According to our analysis, WorldTrips , Travel Insured International and Travelex offer the best cheap travel insurance. Policy coverage types and limits can vary by each travel insurance provider, so the best way to get the cheapest travel insurance plan is to compare several policies and companies to find the right fit for your budget.

A good rate for travel insurance depends on your budget and coverage needs. The most comprehensive travel insurance plan is usually not the cheapest. But cheap trip insurance may not have enough coverage or the types of coverage you want. Comparing different levels of coverage and how much they cost can help you find the best cheap insurance for travel. 

The average cost of travel insurance is between 5% to 6% of your total travel expenses for one trip, according to our analysis of rates. However, you may find cheaper travel insurance if you opt for a plan with fewer benefits or lower coverage limits. How much you pay for travel insurance will also depend on the number of travelers covered, their ages, the length of the trip and any upgrades you add to your plan.

Travel insurance covers nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs — up to the policy coverage limits — when your trip is interrupted or canceled for a covered reason outlined in your plan documents. Even the cheapest travel insurance policies usually provide coverage for:

• Medical emergencies.
• Trip delays.
• Trip interruption.
• Trip cancellation.
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage.

However, if you’re looking to save on travel insurance, you can shop for a policy that only has travel medical insurance and does not include benefits for trip cancellation .

Even when you buy cheap travel insurance, you can often use upgrade options to customize your policy to meet your specific needs. 

Some common travel insurance add-ons you may want to consider include:

• Rental car damage coverage. 
• Medical bundle.
• Security bundle.
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage.
• Adventure sports bundle.
• Pet bundle.
• Wedding bundle.
• “Cancel for work reasons” coverage.
• “Interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage.
• “Cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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Globe Life Insurance Review

Globe life controversy, globe life insurance plans available, how much does globe life insurance cost, how to file a claims with globe life insurance, globe life insurance faqs.

• Why You Should Trust Us

Globe Life Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Planning for the future is the foundation that continues to draw customers to life insurance companies like Globe Life. Since 1900, Globe Life has helped individuals to face the unexpected and ensure a secure financial future for loved ones.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable pricing on whole and term life insurance products
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all states except Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, and New York
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Whole life insurance death benefits are limited
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No options for investment or accelerated death benefits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No claims filing options online

Life insurance is more diverse than ever before. Its foundation remains supporting families after the passing of a loved one. Globe Life issues 16.8 million policies, more than any of the nation's leading life insurance companies. But volume is only part of the picture.

Globe Life's zero-risk, money-back guarantee makes its policies an excellent fit for middle-income individuals looking to purchase directly from the company with no medical exam and short wait times. In addition, with benefits topping out at just $100,000, life insurance coverage from Globe Life is a good choice for individuals looking to supplement existing or employer-provided life insurance and those seeking coverage for additional family members.

However, even the best no medical exam life insurance doesn't always mean guaranteed acceptance. Buyers should expect medical questions, and the company may request medical records. Its underwriting decisions, especially for more comprehensive policies, will factor in this medical data.

Globe Life's forte is low-cost funeral plans, and customer reviews indicate it delivers on its promises. Kathy of Londonderry, OH, left a review on ConsumerAffairs after losing her 19-year-old grandson, saying, "I am so thankful to Globe Life. We could not have taken care of him without the policy. The funeral cost were paid very quickly with no stress of me handling anything and I could stay focused on what needed done."

Globe Life has been under pressure due to a series of investigations and lawsuits alleging a toxic work environment, deceptive consumer practices, and fraud. Its stock plunged about 50% in mid-April 2024 after a short-seller issued a scathing report describing, among other things, a work culture, "permissive of sexual assault, rape, racism, and widespread illicit drug activity" within American Income Life, a subsidiary of Globe Life. Globe Life denied the allegations, saying in a statement  that the short-seller "mischaracterizes facts and uses unsubstantiated claims and conjecture to present an overall picture of Globe Life that is deliberately false, misleading, and defamatory."

In March 2024, the Department of Justice subpoenaed AIL and Globe Life for documents related to Arias Organization, an affiliate insurance agency. The DOJ investigation, as well as two open investigations conducted by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, appear to be ongoing. 

Globe Term Life Insurance

Globe Life offers term life insurance coverage ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Policies are purchased directly from the company with no medical exam and quick underwriting. Once your application is approved, Globe Life benefits and monthly premiums remain fixed when policyholders make payments on time.

Like any other term policy, Globe Life's policies expire after the set term. Globe Life mentions converting term policies to whole life insurance policies to make coverage permanent. But the website is light on details, focusing on extremely low premiums for specific customers. Globe Life's term life policies are available for adults and children. All applications are subject to underwriting approval. So the pricing listed online (and your acceptance) may vary when you secure the policy.

Globe Whole Life Insurance

Globe Life offers whole life policies with benefits from $5,000 to $50,000. You can purchase policies directly from the company with no medical exam and no long wait times. Rates remain constant for life, as does coverage (when premiums are paid on time), which means you can rest assured in your chosen coverage.

Remember, Globe Life's underwriting will not approve every application, especially with higher limits. No medical exam does not translate into no medical information required. Buyers will need to answer some medical questions, and the company can pull electronic medical records to make its decision. No medical policies are typically sold to select groups like seniors looking for funeral policies or young, healthy buyers willing to pay higher premiums for lower coverage to avoid a medical exam.

Globe Children's Life Insurance

Whole life insurance for kids (or grandkids) is available from Globe Life in numbers ranging from $5,000-$30,000. Full coverage and benefits begin on day one. Available with no medical exam and zero waiting, a hassle-free policy from Globe Life might be the easiest part of welcoming a new member to your family. Benefits remain constant for life, despite age, health status, or occupation when premiums are paid on time.

As with its adult policies, Globe Life offers children whole and term life insurance options. Applicants who get approval for children's policies can also buy more comprehensive policies as adults. However, these smaller policies offer a gateway into life insurance and its financial benefits early in life. Children's life insurance can be a wealth-building tool, particularly with its whole life policies. It's never too early for financial planning.

It's easy to find comparable adult policies through other companies. However, Globe Life's life insurance for children faces less competition overall.

Globe Final Expense Life Insurance

Many of Globe Life's policies could be considered "final expense" policies. By this, we mean the limits are low and only meant to cover funeral costs and a small amount of debt. However, it provides a specific product for seniors comfortable with lower coverage amounts. As a result, approval is often more straightforward.

This policy type comes with obvious limits (the death benefit). However, buyers should also be aware of other limitations, like the inability to build cash value over time. So no matter how long you live, the value will remain the same.

Additional Coverage Options Offered by Globe Life

Accidental Benefits Insurance

You can prepare for the unexpected and the financial strain that can accompany it with an extra layer of protection. Accidental death insurance from Globe Life provides up to $250,000 worth of coverage in the case of accidental death for just $1 to start. In addition, acceptance is guaranteed regardless of health for individuals aged 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage for myriad issues from inflation and education to dismemberment and paralysis.

Accidental death coverage only pays out if you're killed in an accident. Causes could include travel-related accidents, trips and falls, poisonings, etc. It would not cover terminal illnesses, extended injuries after an accident, or dying from old age. Globe life also has a supplemental accidental insurance product. Accidental death coverage helps buyers with ambulance riders, ICU stays, and other medical costs of accidents that don't result in death.

Mortgage Protection Insurance

You can protect your family's biggest asset and a potential source of stress in the event of your accidental death. For just a fraction of your monthly mortgage payment, this type of accidental death and dismemberment policy provides between $50,000-$350,000 to pay off your home mortgage. If the payout doesn't pay off your mortgage, loved ones could then look into options to refinance the smaller debt to lower monthly payments.

Rates start at just $5.50 per month, and acceptance is guaranteed for individuals ages 18-69. Additional benefits, furnished at no extra cost, include coverage in the case of a common disaster or commercially scheduled airline accident, among others.

One important thing to note is this is an accidental death and dismemberment policy. In short, it's not a comprehensive plan for every cause of death. Benefits would only apply after a covered accident. The limits are part of what makes this policy so cheap. It's excellent for a policyholder's prime working years but may not be as beneficial for retirees.

Globe Life's advertised rates are affordable, with types of life insurance  for adults and children starting at $1 for the first month, after which the rate is based on the individual's current age and guaranteed for the policy terms. Unlike some competitors, Globe Life also offers a limited money-back guarantee. If unsatisfied, return your policy within 30 days for a full refund.

Globe Life offers many cheap plans with low payouts. These are great for buyers on a tight budget or those seeking easy approval for a funeral cost plan. However, buyers looking for large plans for retirement or other financial planning would find better products with other companies.

Anyone can file a claim with Globe Life, including a spouse, child, another beneficiary, or a family spokesperson (including a representative from a funeral home). Providing the following information will expedite the claims process:

• Life insurance policy number
• Contact info for the beneficiary
• Official death certificate
• Copy of obituary
• Coroner's and/or police report (in the case of accident, homicide, or suicide)

Once gathered, mail all documents to the following:

Globe Life Inc.

PO Box 8076

Attn: Life Claims Department

McKinney, TX 75070

On average, it takes Globe Life 10-15 days to receive, log and process the information included in the above documents. Please bear in mind processing times can vary. Globe Life representatives will notify you should additional information be needed.

It only takes a few minutes to complete its easy online application. Once approved, Globe Life will send a copy of your policy via mail.

Obtaining additional life insurance coverage for family members is easy with Globe Life's e-ServiceCenter. New applications for adults and children are accessible with your current login information if you have an existing plan. New customers can also apply online or over the phone.

Once you've begun the claims process, Globe Life offers phone and online-based customer service. Call Customer Service at 1-888-650-4081 or visit the company's eServiceCenter to check the status of a claim you've filed.

Globe Life Insurance Competitors

Learn more about Globe Life Insurance and whether it is the right life insurance company for you.

Globe Life vs. State Farm Life Insurance

Globe Life prides itself on simple, standard coverage delivering death benefits topping out at $100,000 compared to more robust options from State Farm . Globe Life focuses mainly on small funeral policies or accident coverage. State Farm offers larger payouts and options like its Survivorship Universal Life Insurance, which covers two individuals. So, for example, a husband and wife could buy a policy, and the value would be based on the couple's combined lifespan and qualifications.

Globe Life scored 798 on the latest JD Power US Individual Life Insurance Study. In short, the company earns consistently high marks from customers. Still, State Farm outranks Globe Life with a score of 843. With State Farm, applicants may have to submit to a medical exam. But the company offers more comprehensive policies to pay out in more flexible circumstances. It also has more permanent life insurance options to meet diverse needs. Most importantly, buyers can bundle State Farm life insurance with homeowners, auto, and other State Farm plans.

As you might expect from its JD Power rankings, State Farm customers have a lot to say about the package it provides. Mb of Palm Springs, CA, left a review on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "State Farm may or may not be the cheapest. However, their customer service is outstanding. They proactively contact me to review my insurance once a year. They always answer my questions quickly and clearly. If they don't know immediately, they are willing to admit they don't know and always follow-up ASAP."

State Farm Life Insurance Review

Globe Life vs. Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life has become known for its quick and flexible whole and term life policies. Especially with its accidental death policies, Globe Life offers no medical exam options with fast approvals. Mutual of Omaha is not quite as cheap. Term Life Express is the company's only option for life insurance with no medical exam. But it comes with significantly higher limits than any of Globe Life's policies for all causes of death (not just approved accidents) up to $300,000. The company's strong financial backing means building cash value is easy, as evidenced by options including Universal Life Insurance (boasting coverage over $1 million) and Indexed Universal Life Insurance (a flexible albeit risky way to build cash value).

Both companies have whole life policies. Again, Mutual of Omaha offers a diverse range of policies with higher benefits. Mutual of Omaha customers can enjoy accelerated death benefits in the event of a terminal disease and other riders. Its underwriting may take longer than Globe Life's, but the higher benefits will pay off in the long run for approved customers. At this time, both companies enjoy high customer satisfaction rankings with JD Power.

Most importantly, Mutual of Omaha will likely never offer the bargain policies Globe Life does. But customers still find pricing reasonable. Wendy of Enola, PA, reviewed Mutual of Omaha on ConsumerAffairs , saying, "I have a practical and effective insurance policy with great and affordable rates. Company has an excellent and easy to use website."

Mutual of Omaha Life Insurance

Globe Life vs. SBLI 

SBLI offers Cherish Life final expense insurance up to $35,000 in coverage with two significant benefits. SBLI customers can apply until age 80, and beneficiaries can use benefits to pay for any of the insured's expenses. Globe Life has a cut-off age of 75 to apply. Both companies offer whole and term life insurance policies. Both companies also have no medical exam life insurance options.

At this time, Globe Life's listed policy limits are low. Most policies cover funeral costs. Plans with higher benefits are mostly accident policies (it only pays out if you die due to a covered accident). SBLI doesn't list its limits on its site. However, it focuses on whole and term life insurance for any cause of death.

The customer reviews tell a great story about SBLI. Trustpilot reviewer Matthew says, "SBLI has always been a notch above all others in the insurance industry. We have had policies with them for about 8 years, and have never experienced anything but great service, honest and candid feedback, and they deliver exactly what they communicate!"

SBLI Review

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed Globe Life Insurance

Life insurance companies are compared based on product quality, insurance riders, net performance scores, pricing, and customer service. A diverse array of life insurance products is used to compare death benefit plans with life insurance designed for long-term financial planning. Opinions expressed here are wholly based on facts gathered.

Ratings are not decided based solely on marketing or single online reviews. Instead, we gather a broad mix of information to rank all insurance products consistently and fairly. Therefore, the best way to ensure you find the right policy is to utilize a qualified agent when shopping for life insurance.

You can read more about our rating system here .

What Does "No Medical Exam" Mean With Globe Life?

None of the life insurance products at Globe Life require a medical or physical exam. Instead, the insurer uses a series of health-related questions (part of the company's online application) to determine eligibility. Full transparency, especially with preexisting conditions, is essential. Dishonesty of any kind puts the insured at risk of policy cancellation or unpaid death benefits. You may be eligible for a small funeral costs policy even if you're denied a more comprehensive life insurance policy.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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