The formal notification you must give your insurer when a claim is made against you.
Notice of claim is your obligation to inform your insurer promptly when you receive a claim. Most policies require notice "as soon as practicable." Failing to provide timely notice can jeopardize your coverage.
Notice of claim is your formal notification to your insurance carrier that someone has made a claim against you or your business. Most policies require you to notify the insurer as soon as practicable after you become aware of a claim. This triggers the insurer's duty to defend and allows them to begin investigating immediately.
You should report a claim to your insurer immediately or as soon as practicable—typically within days, not weeks. While policies often say "prompt" or "timely" notice, delaying notice can give the insurer grounds to deny coverage if the delay prejudices their ability to defend you. When in doubt, report it right away.
Failing to provide timely notice of claim can jeopardize or completely eliminate your coverage for that claim. Insurers may deny the claim if late notice prejudiced their ability to investigate or defend you. Even if you think a claim is frivolous or will go away, you must still notify your carrier to preserve your rights under the policy.
Definitions are educational and may be modified by your specific policy language, endorsements, and state rules. For regulatory guidance, refer to the California Department of Insurance or the NAIC.
Last updated: July 2026.