Insurance companies may have different requirements when it comes to filing claims, especially for different policy types. You may pay your insurance premiums on time, but that doesn't mean your insurance company will automatically send you a check to cover any damaging event or loss, and consistently paying insurance premiums does not necessarily guarantee that your claim will be paid. But you can improve your chances of filing a successful claim by following these tips.

• Read Your Insurance Policy

Make sure you know exactly what is covered under your policy and the requirements you have to meet before your insurance company will consider your claim. For example, if you are involved in a car accident that causes $2,500 in vehicle damage, your policy may require you to pay the first $1,000 of that amount, or your deductible, before your insurance company pays the balance.

• Determine Whether You Should File a Claim

In some instances, it may make more sense for you to foot the entire repair bill for a minor fender-bender or other property damage since filing a claim could result in an increase in your insurance premiums. This is especially true if you have filed any additional claims within the same year or in recent years. In addition to increasing the cost of insurance, a large number of claims filed within a certain timeframe can prompt some companies to drop your coverage. It is also not advisable to file a claim if the damage to your property was the result of inadequate maintenance on your part (e.g. a leaking pipe).

• Contact the Appropriate Agencies

If a situation occurs for which you need to file a claim (such as an auto accident or home burglary), contact your local law enforcement agency before contacting your insurance agent. The insurance company will need proof that the event occurred, and in the case of theft, will usually ask for an itemized list of missing belongings.

If you are in an auto accident, do not admit fault at the scene or offer to pay for damages—both can negatively affect your insurance coverage. Before leaving the scene, obtain each motorist's name, address, phone number, insurance information, license number, and make and model of each vehicle involved in the accident. It is also a good idea to collect names and contact information of witnesses, as well as names and badge numbers for law enforcement and emergency personnel at the scene. You will also want to jot down any details that you remember as soon as possible after the accident.

• Provide Good Documentation

In addition to police reports (if the event warrants contact with law enforcement), be sure to supply all the documentation that you can to substantiate your claim. If there is damage to your home or auto, it is helpful to take pictures or make a video of this damage.

In the case of home or rental insurance, it is a good idea to create an itemized list of possessions and take photos or video footage of them at the time that you purchase your policy. It is also helpful to save receipts. Place these documents in a fire-safe lockbox or in a location away from your residence. When filling out paperwork associated with your claim, be sure that all details are accurate and that there are no inconsistencies, as these can result in a delay or denial of your claim.

• File the Claim as Soon as Possible

You may have all the right documentation and meet all the requirements for a claim, but unless you file    it within the specified time outlined in your policy, it may be denied. In addition to knowing the required          timeframe, contact your insurance agent or the company's hotline as soon as possible to let them know about the event.

• Obtain More than One Estimate

If you need to make repairs to your automobile or home, it's a good idea to obtain more than one  estimate to get an accurate assessment of the cost. You may also want to check with your insurance agent first—your insurance company may have a list of pre-approved companies that can make any needed repairs.

• Prevent Additional Damage

Make any necessary repairs to prevent further damage from occurring to your property, and be sure to save the receipts for any materials used. For example, if a tree falls through your living room window during a storm, you may have to temporarily board up the window. However, refrain from making any permanent repairs until you hear from an insurance adjuster.

• Ask for Immediate Assistance if Necessary

 If your home or apartment is rendered uninhabitable due to fire or a natural disaster, make contact with your insurance agent immediately. Many insurance companies will provide immediate financial assistance for hotel stays or other needs if an event makes it impossible to remain in your residence.

Additional Resources

• Insurance Information Institute:  http://www.iii.org

• FEMA tips for filing an insurance claim:  http://www.fema.gov/rebuild/recover/claim.shtm

• Allstate FAQ about Auto Claims:  http://www.allstate.com/claims/auto-insurance-FAQs.aspx