A "loss run" is a detailed report from an insurance carrier that outlines your claims history over a specific period, typically the past three to five years. It's a crucial document, especially for businesses, as it provides a comprehensive overview of past claims, including the date of loss, type of claim, status (open or closed), and the amounts paid and reserved for each claim. Insurance companies use loss runs to assess your risk profile, determine eligibility for coverage, and calculate premiums.
Getting your loss runs from Allstate might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you have all the information you need to successfully
How to Get Loss Runs from Allstate: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand Why You Need Loss Runs and What Information They Contain
Before you even pick up the phone or send an email, it's important to understand why you need your loss runs. Are you switching insurance carriers? Are you renewing your policy and want to review your claims history? Knowing your purpose will help you articulate your request clearly and efficiently.
Engage the User: Think about it for a moment: Why do you need your Allstate loss runs? Are you aiming for a better rate, or just curious about your claims history? Your answer will shape how you approach the next steps!
Loss runs typically include:
- Carrier Name: Allstate Insurance Company.
- Policy Number(s): The unique identifier for your insurance policy.
- Coverage Dates: The period during which your policy was active.
- Claim Information:
- Date of Loss: When the incident occurred.
- Date Claim Reported: When you notified Allstate of the claim.
- Type of Claim: (e.g., auto accident, property damage, liability).
- Claim Number: A specific identifier for each claim.
- Status: Whether the claim is open, closed, or denied.
- Financial Data:
- Amounts Paid: The total amount Allstate has paid out on the claim.
- Reserves Held: The amount of money Allstate has set aside for potential future payments on open claims.
- Valuation Date: The date on which the data in the report was generated. Insurers often require "currently valued" reports, meaning the valuation date is within a certain timeframe (e.g., 30-90 days of the application date).
Step 2: Identify the Correct Allstate Contact Channel
Allstate, being a large insurance provider, has several departments and contact methods. Knowing which one to use is crucial for a smooth process.
Sub-heading: Personal Insurance (Auto, Home, Renters, Condo, etc.)
If you have personal insurance policies with Allstate, your primary points of contact will be:
- Your Allstate Agent: This is often the most efficient way. Your local agent has direct access to your policy information and can usually facilitate the request for you. They are familiar with the internal processes and can often expedite the delivery of your loss runs.
- Allstate Customer Service (General): You can call the main Allstate customer service line. For auto and property claims, the number is 800-255-7828. Be prepared to provide your policy number and personal identifying information for verification.
- Allstate Online Account (My Account): While you can track existing claims and view policy details through your My Account portal, directly downloading loss runs may not always be an option. However, you can use the messaging or contact features within your account to initiate a request.
Sub-heading: Business/Commercial Insurance
For business insurance policies (e.g., General Liability, Commercial Auto, Workers' Compensation, Business Owners Policy), the contact methods are slightly different:
- Allstate Business Insurance Customer Service: You can call 833-250-9900 for general business insurance inquiries. For Drivewise® Business Insurance, call 800-659-3144. They are typically available Monday - Friday, 9:00 am – 8:00 pm (EST).
- Allstate Commercial Claims Department: For specific commercial auto claims, you can call 800-ALLSTATE to file, and then track existing claims by calling 800-897-4865. For Business Owners Policy (BOP) claims, call 800-359-1000.
- Your Business Insurance Agent: Similar to personal insurance, your dedicated business insurance agent is often the best resource for obtaining loss runs.
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Information for Your Request
Regardless of how you choose to contact Allstate, having the following information readily available will streamline your request:
- Your Full Name (or Business Name): As it appears on your policy.
- Your Allstate Policy Number(s): If you have multiple policies, be sure to provide all relevant numbers.
- Effective Dates of the Policy(ies): The start and end dates of the period for which you need loss runs. Most requests are for the last 3-5 years.
- Your Contact Information: Phone number and email address where Allstate can send the report or follow up.
- Reason for the Request: While not always strictly required, stating your reason (e.g., "for renewal with a new carrier," "for underwriting purposes") can sometimes help.
- Specific Formatting/Delivery Preferences: Do you need it emailed, faxed, or mailed? Specify if you have a preference.
Step 4: Make Your Request Clearly and Concisely
Now it's time to reach out to Allstate.
Sub-heading: Via Phone Call (Recommended for most cases)
- Dial the Appropriate Number: Use the numbers provided in Step 2 based on your policy type.
- Navigate the Automated System: Listen carefully to the prompts to connect with the correct department (e.g., "policy services," "claims," or "customer support").
- State Your Request Clearly: Once you connect with a representative, clearly state that you need your "loss runs" or "claims history report." Specify the policy number(s) and the years you need the report for.
- Verify Your Identity: The representative will ask you security questions to verify your identity.
- Confirm Delivery Method and Timeline: Ask how and when you can expect to receive the report. Many states mandate insurers to provide loss runs within a specific timeframe, often 10 business days.
- Get a Reference Number: Request a reference or tracking number for your call. This can be helpful if you need to follow up.
Sub-heading: Via Email or Online Form (If available)
If you prefer written communication or it's the only option provided:
- Locate the Appropriate Email Address or Form: Check the Allstate website's "Help & Support" or "Contact Us" section.
- Compose a Formal Request:
- Subject Line: Clearly state "Loss Run Request - [Your Name/Business Name] - Policy #[Your Policy Number]"
- Body: Include all the information prepared in Step 3.
- Be Polite and Professional: A clear and courteous request is always best.
- Attach Any Supporting Documents (if requested): Sometimes, a signed release form might be required, especially for commercial policies.
Sub-heading: Through Your Allstate Agent (Highly Recommended)
- Contact Your Agent: Reach out to your Allstate agent directly via phone or email.
- Explain Your Need: Tell them you require your loss runs and for what purpose.
- Provide Necessary Details: They may already have most of your information, but be prepared to confirm policy numbers and desired years.
- Let Them Handle It: Your agent will typically process the request on your behalf and have the loss runs sent directly to you. This can often be the fastest and least complicated method.
Step 5: Follow Up and Verify Receipt
After making your request, it's important to follow up if you don't receive the loss runs within the promised timeframe.
- Note the Expected Delivery Date: When you make your initial request, ask for an estimated delivery time.
- Check Your Email/Mail: Keep an eye on your inbox (including spam/junk folders) and physical mailbox.
- Follow Up (if necessary): If the estimated time passes and you haven't received the report, call Allstate again (or your agent) using your reference number from the initial call. Politely inquire about the status of your request.
- Review the Report: Once you receive the loss runs, carefully review them for accuracy. Check the policy numbers, dates, and claim details. If anything seems incorrect, contact Allstate immediately to have it rectified.
Important Considerations:
- Proof of Ownership: Be prepared to provide proof that you are the policyholder.
- Authorization: If you are requesting loss runs for a business, ensure you have the proper authorization to do so.
- Timeliness: Underwriters often require loss runs to be "currently valued," meaning the report's valuation date must be recent (e.g., within 30-90 days of the application date). Plan your request accordingly.
- Multiple Carriers: If you've had insurance with multiple carriers over the past few years, you'll need to request loss runs from each carrier individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Get Loss Runs if I'm no longer an Allstate customer?
Even if you are no longer an Allstate customer, they are generally still obligated to provide your loss runs. Follow the same steps, calling the general customer service number for your previous policy type (personal or business) and providing your former policy number and identifying information.
How to Request Loss Runs for a Business Policy from Allstate?
For business policies, call the Allstate Business Insurance customer service at 833-250-9900 or contact your dedicated Allstate business insurance agent. Be prepared with your business name, policy number(s), and the desired timeframe for the report.
How to Expedite a Loss Run Request from Allstate?
The best way to potentially expedite a request is to go through your Allstate agent. They often have direct lines and relationships that can speed up the process. Clearly communicate any deadlines you have.
How to Understand the Information on an Allstate Loss Run Report?
Each entry on a loss run typically includes the date of loss, type of claim (e.g., collision, fire, liability), claim status (open/closed), and amounts paid and reserved. If anything is unclear, don't hesitate to ask your agent or an Allstate representative for clarification.
How to Get Loss Runs if I don't have my Policy Number?
If you don't have your policy number, Allstate should be able to locate your policy using other identifying information like your full name, date of birth, and address for personal policies, or your business name and address for commercial policies.
How to Dispute Inaccurate Information on an Allstate Loss Run?
If you find inaccurate information on your loss run report, contact Allstate's claims department or your agent immediately. Provide any documentation you have to support your claim for correction.
How to Get Loss Runs for Both Auto and Home Policies from Allstate?
You can typically request both auto and home loss runs in a single call or email, provided you have all the relevant policy numbers. Specify that you need reports for both policy types.
How to Get Loss Runs if I Only Had Claims and No Active Policy?
Even if you only had a claim filed through Allstate as a third party (e.g., you were involved in an accident with an Allstate insured), you might be able to request a claims history related to that specific incident. Contact their claims department directly.
How to Submit a Formal Written Request for Allstate Loss Runs?
If a formal written request is required, send a letter via certified mail to Allstate's corporate address or the relevant claims processing center. Include all necessary policy and contact information, clearly stating your request for loss runs and the period required. Keep a copy for your records.
How to Find My Allstate Agent's Contact Information?
You can usually find your Allstate agent's contact information on your policy documents, insurance cards, or by logging into your My Account on the Allstate website. If all else fails, the general Allstate customer service line can help you locate your agent.
