People rely on insurance to help make them whole after they’ve suffered an accident or property damage. So what happens if your insurance company delays or even denies your claim? If you live in Arkansas, you should know that the state motto is “Regnat Populus”: It means “The People Rule,” and it means you have options. Read on for more resources for insurance consumer protection in Arkansas.
Who Oversees Insurance Companies in Arkansas?
The Arkansas Insurance Commissioner is responsible for licensing and regulating insurance providers operating within the state. The current commissioner is Alan McClain. McClain was appointed as commissioner in 2020 by then Governor Asa Hutchinson.
What Are the Duties of the Arkansas Insurance Commissioner?
The Arkansas Insurance Commissioner has several key duties aimed at protecting consumers and ensuring a fair insurance market in the state. The main responsibilities of this position include: licensing insurance companies; regulating insurance rates; protecting consumers; preventing fraud; and administering special programs like government worker’s compensation programs and insurance counseling for Medicare recipients.
How Do I File a Complaint Against an Insurance Company in Arkansas?
You can file a complaint via an online form (the preferred method), or via mail or fax by downloading a form from the Department of Insurance website. You can also file a complaint over the phone (though this might increase the time it takes to resolve your complaint). No matter what method you use, the following tips can help speed up the resolution of your issue:
- Be clear and concise in your explanation of the issue.
- Include all relevant dates, names, and policy numbers.
- Attach copies of any supporting documentation, such as claim denials, letters, or emails.
- Keep a copy of your complaint for your records.
The Arkansas Department of Insurance investigates complaints and works to resolve them with the insurance company.
How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Settle Claims in Arkansas?
Arkansas insurance companies have 45 days from the receipt of your proof of loss to resolve your claim. If they need more time to investigate the claim, they must notify you in writing before the first 45 days are up, and explain why they need more time. See our blog post on this topic, which includes more details about insurance company responsibilities regarding timely claim resolution.
How Do I Contact the Arkansas Insurance Commissioner?
Arkansas policyholders can seek assistance with their insurance claims through the Arkansas Department of Insurance at www.insurance.arkansas.gov.
When a policyholder has been mistreated by having their claim delayed, denied or handled in bad faith, Arkansas provides an Online Consumer Complaint Form that can be submitted to the Department of Insurance. The Consumer Complaint Form can be filled out online.
The form can also be submitted by mailing to this address:
Arkansas Insurance Department
Consumer Services Division
1 Commerce Way, Suite 102
Little Rock, AR 72202-2087
Or Faxed to: (501) 371-2749
The Arkansas Department of Insurance can be reached by phone at the following numbers:
- (800) 282-9134, or
- (501) 371-2600
Further Resources on Insurance Coverage Law
Navigating the complexities of insurance claims can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re facing unpaid claims or simply filing for the first time, our eBooks equip you with the crucial information you need to advocate for yourself with confidence.
- Filing A Property Insurance Claim
- Insurance Company Response Time
- What To Do When You Have a Denied/Underpaid Claim
- Wildfire Claims
- Flood Claims Handbook
- More Information on Hurricane Deductible and Policy Limits
- Condominium Hurricane Preparedness
Why Merlin?
Are you fighting an insurance company that won’t pay up on claims? With nearly 40 years of practice and $2 billion in recovered claims, our team stands by your side to ensure you can face any insurance challenge with confidence. Contact us today for a consultation, or read more about how we’re your trusted advocate.
