How long does it typically take for Allstate to process an auto insurance claim?

How long it takes Allstate to process an auto insurance claim depends on your unique situation. No two accidents are exactly alike, so the Allstate claims processing time varies. While this can be stressful, you should know that Allstate representatives work around the clock to process Allstate claims as quickly as possible.

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Laura D. Adams

Insurance & Finance Analyst

Laura Adams is one of the nation’s leading finance, insurance, and small business authorities. As an award-winning author, spokesperson, and host of the top-rated Money Girl podcast since 2008, millions of readers and listeners benefit from her practical advice. Her mission is to empower consumers to live healthy and rich lives by planning for the future and making smart money decisions. She rec...

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Brad Larson

Licensed Insurance Agent

Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...

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What You Should Know

  • Claim processing times vary depending on accident severity, vehicle damage, who is at fault, and other factors
  • Like other prominent American insurance companies, Allstate Insurance must pay its clients within a reasonable amount of time and aim to finalize claims within 30 days
  • There are ways you can shorten auto insurance claims processing times

How long does it take for Allstate to process an auto insurance claim? Unfortunately, even the safest drivers get into accidents. You may be new to the insurance world and wondering how long Allstate will take to process your auto insurance claim.

As one of the largest insurance companies with countless agencies across the United States, Allstate prides itself in paying out claims daily. However, what auto insurance companies don’t tell you is a specific date for when your claim will finalize, at least not right away.

This is simply because many factors can slow down the process. However, learning how representatives work and what you can do to help will give you some insight into claim processing times. (For more information, read our “How does the auto insurance claims process differ for uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage with Allstate?“).

How Long It Takes for Allstate to Process a Claim

American states require auto insurance companies like Allstate to finalize claims and payout after a reasonable period, often within 30 days. Case in point, Massachusetts states that insurance companies must abide by reasonable expectations from their clients.

However, compensating you as soon as possible requires smooth claim processing. Sadly, this doesn’t always happen.

Your claim may be complex, with extensive damages and other people to talk to, requiring Allstate to investigate for longer than anticipated. But this is still good news for you because it will guarantee accuracy, even if you have to wait a while.

Read more: What happens if I disagree with Allstate’s decision on my auto insurance claim?

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Steps to Processing an Auto Insurance Claim With Allstate

Understanding how auto insurance works is the first step toward estimating when you’ll receive compensation. From filing to settlement, several critical steps require input from insurance company representatives, you, and other parties that may be involved. Let’s explore them:

First, Allstate will assign you an adjuster after you report the accident. Their job is to evaluate and investigate your claim. For example, the adjuster may review police reports, interview witnesses, inspect damages, review medical records, and assess the extent of injuries suffered.

Next, you must relay all relevant information to your adjuster. According to its claims page, Allstate needs to know the exact date and time of the accident, the location, and how it unfolded. This will help the company determine if it must contact the other driver involved if there is one.

You also need to report whether there were any witnesses or injuries, and you may need to submit photos and videos of the damage, which you must take at the scene.

It’s also a good idea to get contact information from responding police officers. You can now inquire with a repair shop and Allstate about a cost estimate. But don’t start repairs yet.

Allstate will now assign an appraiser to assess your vehicle damage. They will strive to conduct quick damage investigations. You should now know a more accurate estimate and be free to start repairs. Choose a shop within the Allstate Good Hands Repair Network if you need additional repairs.

Allstate will either pay the shop directly for repair costs or pay out the claim to you. While this stage will likely do smoothly, it’s wise to learn what to do if insurance won’t pay the repair shop’s quoted price.

Remember, you can start a claim before you compile all supporting documentation. Then, with your Allstate account, you can add more information later. You can also learn how to check the status of your auto insurance claim.

Read more:

How to Speed Up My Allstate Auto Insurance Claim Processing Time

Preventative measures are the first step toward a speedy claim processing time. This involves practicing basic responsibilities like finding an affordable, renewable auto insurance policy and knowing how to renew your auto insurance policy when the time comes.

Without guaranteeing financial protection for the future, you may have to pay out of pocket for vehicle damage.

Reporting the accident as soon as possible cuts down on your waiting time. When you report immediately, Allstate takes your accident seriously and can get ahead of your claim. Allstate can deny a claim if you wait weeks or months to report.

You should also stay in contact with your adjuster. They may stall your claim if they can’t confirm relevant information with you. In addition, you will be left in the dark about your claim processing time if you don’t call them back.

Lastly, never leave the scene of an accident without taking photos and videos and getting the contact details of all parties. This includes witnesses, police officers, and other drivers.

Allstate Claims Processing: The Bottom Line

How long it takes Allstate to process an auto insurance claim depends on a few significant factors. Learn more in our Allstate auto insurance review.. Clear-cut facts, minimal damage, and quick research from your adjuster will lead to faster compensation.

However, you may have to wait if your claim involves severe injuries, driver disputes, and significant damages. Helping with an accurate investigation and practicing patience will get you the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Allstate good at paying claims?

As a popular American insurance company, Allstate representatives hold themselves to a high standard and prioritize paying out claims. As a result, Allstate scored in the top five among all major insurers for claims handling.

How long does an insurance company have to investigate a claim?

Insurance companies usually start investigating within two weeks and try to finalize claims within a month.

What happens if a claim is taking too long?

If you think your claim processing time is unacceptable, you can file a complaint with Allstate or whichever insurance company you’re with.

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