Health Insurance Claim Rejected? Your 2026 Fight-Back Plan

By Hari Kotian, IRDAI-Certified Insurance Advisor · 2026

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 3: Insurance Ombudsman

If the GRO reply is unsatisfactory, file with the Insurance Ombudsman - free, semi-judicial, and binding on the insurer. Acknowledgment in 3-5 working days, awards typically within 3 months.

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.