Health Claim Denied? The Legal & Practical Recovery Playbook

By Hari Kotian, IRDAI-Certified Insurance Advisor · 2026

File a formal complaint with the insurer's Grievance Redressal Officer with supporting documents. The insurer must respond within 15 days. This is the mandatory first step before external escalation.

Section 45 advantage

For life policies, Section 45 of the Insurance Act 1938 bars contest after 3 years of continuous coverage except for proven fraud - a powerful lever on older claims.

Step 1: Written rejection letter

By regulation the insurer must provide a written rejection citing the specific policy clause. If they have not, write a formal letter demanding one and keep every communication with dates.