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How long will I have to wait for my auto insurance claim check?

I was in a not-at-fault accident a few weeks ago. My car is totaled. My adjuster said it can take a while for the claim payout because the insurance company is dragging its feet. I don't have a rental car and need this check to buy a new car. How long do I have to wait? I live in CA.

Shannon Martin · Updated on Apr 29, 2021

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

“In most cases, insurance payouts happen within 30 days. Insurance carriers want to get claim cases closed as soon as possible. However, there are things that can delay the process.

Since you live in CA, the insurance carrier that is making the payout for your car has up to 40 days to accept the claim, then 30 days to make the payout. If they ask you for any paperwork, get it to them right away so it doesn’t cause a delay.

When you start shopping for a new car, try getting

car insurance quotes online

and make sure you include

rental reimbursement coverage

as an option in the future. This way, you won’t have to worry about being stuck without a car again! “

View full answer

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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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