Nebraska farmers have started the process of harvesting this year’s crops. The good news of a bountiful harvest comes with the possibility of crop damage. If you are a farmer in Nebraska who experiences crop damage, it is important to know the steps involved in filing a crop insurance claim. It is also important to know what NOT to do when filing a claim.
DO’s and DON’T’s of Filing a Crop Insurance Claim
DO’s:
–Keeping records: Good records are essential if you need to file an insurance claim. Keep track of all receipts, contracts, and other documentation related to your crops.
–Reporting damage as soon as possible: If you notice damage to your crops, it is important to contact your crop insurance agent right away. The sooner you report the damage, the sooner your claim can be processed.
– Filing a timely claim: Once you have reported the damage to your crops, you will need to file a formal insurance claim. Be sure to follow the instructions on how to file a claim, and be sure to do so promptly.
DON’Ts:
– Failing to report damage: If you fail to report crop damage promptly, you may be denied coverage.
– Making false claims: It is important to remember that crop insurance fraud is a crime. You could face fines and/or jail time if caught making a false claim.
– Not following instructions: When filing a crop insurance claim, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Failure to do so could result in a delayed or denied claim.
Step by Step: How to File a Crop Insurance Claim
If you experience crop damage, the first step is to contact your crop insurance agent. Once you have reported the damage, you must file a formal insurance claim. To do so, follow these steps:
– Gathering all the necessary documentation: Before you begin the claims process, be sure to gather all the necessary documentation. This includes receipts, contracts, and other documentation related to your crops. If you fail to include all the required documentation, your claim may be delayed or denied. When in doubt, include more documentation rather than less.
– Filling out the necessary paperwork: The next step is to fill out the necessary paperwork. This includes a damage report, which you and your crop insurance agent must sign. Be sure to complete all the required forms and include all the required information.
– Submitting the claim: Once you have completed the necessary paperwork, you must submit your claim to the crop insurance company. Be sure to do so in a timely manner.
– Following up on the claim: After you have submitted your claim, it is important to follow up with the crop insurance company. This will help ensure that your claim is being processed in a timely manner.
What Should You Do If Your Claim is Denied?
If your crop insurance claim is denied, don’t give up. You have the right to appeal the decision. To do so, you will need to submit a written request for an appeal within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. Ensure all the necessary documentation and a detailed explanation of why you believe the denial was unwarranted. You can also request a hearing, which will give you the opportunity to present your case in person.
By following these steps, you can reduce the stress of filing a crop insurance claim and increase the chances of having your claim approved. When you visit any of our 10 locations at Northeast Nebraska Insurance Agency, you will find a staff of professionals ready to serve your needs. Contact us today for all your insurance needs.