How Do You Make a Claim on Trip Cancellation Insurance?

When your trip gets cancelled for an unexpected reason, the last thing you want is to deal with complicated paperwork or delayed reimbursements. Knowing how to file a claim correctly helps speed up the process and increases your chances of approval.

This becomes especially important when your cancellation involves multiple reservations or a large non-refundable expense. You might think about this the next time you book a high-cost vacation or plan travel around uncertain life events.

What You’ll Need Before Filing

To begin the claim process, you’ll need documentation showing that your cancellation meets the policy’s requirements. Collect these items first:

Proof of payment for flights, hotels, tours, and other non-refundable costs
A detailed cancellation reason, such as illness, death in the family, or natural disaster
Supporting documentation, like a doctor’s note, hospital discharge papers, or a death certificate
Official cancellation confirmations from airlines or service providers
Your insurance policy number and the name of the insurer

Tip: Keep both electronic and printed copies of your receipts and emails. Organizing everything up front saves time later.

Filing the Claim

Most insurers allow you to submit a claim online, by email, or by mail. Here’s what to expect:

Log in to your insurer’s website or call their claims department to request a claim form
Complete the form with trip details, cancellation dates, and your contact information
Attach all supporting documents, including receipts, letters, and medical proof
Submit the claim and track its progress, either online or through follow-up calls

Step	Why It Matters
Complete the form accurately	Errors can delay processing or cause claim rejection
Attach full documentation	Missing items are the top reason for delayed claims
Submit within your policy timeline	Most insurers require claims within 20 to 30 days

How Long It Takes

The time frame for claim approval varies but typically falls between 2 to 6 weeks. Complex cases or missing documentation can slow things down. Some insurers may request additional information during their review.

Note: If approved, reimbursement is usually paid by direct deposit or cheque. Keep an eye on your email or account dashboard for status updates.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Waiting too long to file: Always check your policy deadline
Not documenting the reason for cancellation: A verbal explanation isn’t enough
Cancelling for a non-covered reason: Changing your mind isn’t reimbursable unless you have Cancel For Any Reason coverage
Forgetting to cancel all parts of your trip: Some policies require proof that you made efforts to minimize your loss

Caution: A rejected claim can often be traced back to missing paperwork or unclear documentation. Treat the claim like a legal file and double-check every submission.