- Never sign blank insurance claim forms or applications. Get a copy of every form that you sign.
- Keep a file of documents related to your insurance, including the policy, correspondence, copies of advertisements, premium payment receipts, notes of conversations, and details of any claims submitted.
- Never pay premiums in cash. Always pay by check or money order and make your check payable to the insurance company or agency, not the individual agent. Never pay with a blank check. If you´re paying in installments, make sure you understand how much your payments will be. Be suspicious if an agent tries to bill you for future installments. Normally only the company or premium finance company will do this.
- Demand detailed bills for auto and home repair and medical services. Check closely for accuracy.
- Be cautious of buying insurance from door-to-door or telephone salespeople or off the Internet.
- Know what your policy does and doesn´t cover.
- Keep your insurance identification number confidential. Go elsewhere if an agent becomes evasive when questioned about things like coverages, prices, or installment plan arrangements. Deal only with reputable agents. Ask your friends or family to recommend agents they found helpful and reliable.
- Deal only with licensed companies or otherwise eligible insurers and with licensed agents. Selling insurance without a license is a felony in Texas. Licensed insurance companies must demonstrate to TDI that they are financially sound. In addition, guaranty associations pay claims of licensed insurance companies that fail. Claims against unlicensed insurance companies could go unpaid if the company becomes insolvent. You can verify company licenses and agent licenses online or by calling TDI´s Consumer Help Line at 1-800-252-3439 or 463-6515 in Austin.
This article is from Texas Department of Insurance Website.
http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/fraud/
