A Claim Intimation Number (also called Claim Reference Number or Claim ID) is the first unique number generated by an insurance company when you inform them about a potential claim. Whether it is a car accident, a hospitalization, or a death claim, the process starts with “Intimation”.
You simply call the customer care or email the insurer to say, “Hey, this event has occurred.” The insurer immediately logs this incident and gives you a Claim Intimation Number. This number is the key to submitting documents, tracking the surveyor, and receiving the final settlement.
What Does Claim Intimation Number Mean?
It is the ticket number for your grievance.
- Intimation: The act of formally notifying the insurer.
- Timeline: Must be done usually within 24-48 hours of the incident.
- Output: The Claim ID (e.g., CLM-2024-8888).
Why Claim Intimation Number is Important
- Validity: If you delay intimation without a valid reason, the insurer can reject the claim. Getting this number proves you informed them on time.
- Document Submission: You cannot upload bills or submit the Policy Bond without writing this number on the envelope.
- Surveyor Appointment: The surveyor is assigned only after this number is generated.
Where is Claim Intimation Number Used?
- Hospital Desk: For cashless requests (though TPA ID is used, the claim ID is generated backend).
- Garage: The workshop needs this number to start repairs on your car.
- Online Tracker: To see if the claim is “Approved” or “Pending”.
How to Find or Generate Claim Intimation Number
- Call Helpline: Call the insurer’s toll-free number. Provide Policy Number and Date of Loss. They will give you the Claim ID over the phone.
- Mobile App: Click on “Raise a Claim”. Fill details. The ID pops up.
- Email: Send an email to the claims team. The auto-response or follow-up email will contain the ID.
Example of Claim Intimation
Scenario: Your car meets with an accident.
- Step 1: You call the insurance company from the spot.
- Step 2: You give details.
- Step 3: They SMS you: “Claim Intimated. Your Claim Number is C-987654. Surveyor will contact you.”
- Step 4: When the surveyor comes, you show him this SMS.
Common Problems or Errors
- Delay: Waiting weeks before intimating. The insurer may deny the claim citing “Late Intimation”.
- Wrong Policy No: Intimating under an expired policy number.
Important Things to Remember
- Intimate first, submit documents later. Don’t wait to gather bills to get the number.
- Write this number on every single Xerox copy you submit.
For health claims, this is often linked to your Cashless TPA ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the time limit to generate a Claim Intimation Number?
Most insurers require you to intimate the claim within 24 to 48 hours of the incident (accident, hospitalization, or death). Delay in intimation can lead to rejection of the claim.
Can I generate a Claim Intimation Number online?
Yes, almost all insurers (General and Life) allow you to intimate a claim via their official website or mobile app. You just need the Policy Number and incident details.
Is Claim Intimation Number the same as Policy Number?
No. Policy Number is your contract ID (permanent). Claim Intimation Number is specific to a particular accident or event (temporary). You can have multiple Claim IDs under one Policy Number over time.
What details are needed to get a Claim Intimation Number?
You need the Policy Number, Date and Time of the incident, Location of the incident, and a brief description of what happened (e.g., “Car hit a divider” or “Hospitalized for Dengue”).
What happens after I get the Claim Intimation Number?
The insurer will appoint a surveyor (for motor/property) or a TPA (for health) to assess the loss. You will be asked to submit the relevant proofs (documents/photos) quoting this number.