Claims Outstanding: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Legal Implications

Definition & Meaning

Claims outstanding refers to the difference between the total claims filed against a company's assets and the claims that have been settled or paid. In the insurance industry, this specifically means the difference between the insurance claims that have been reported and those that have been resolved. This figure represents a technical reserve that insurance companies maintain to account for future liabilities related to claims that have occurred but have not yet been settled.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: An insurance company has received claims totaling $1 million but has only settled $800,000. The claims outstanding would be $200,000.

Example 2: A health insurance provider has $500,000 in claims filed but has paid out $450,000. The claims outstanding in this case would be $50,000.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Claims Outstanding Regulations
California Specific reserve requirements for health insurance claims.
Texas Different reporting standards for claims outstanding in property insurance.
New York Mandatory disclosures for claims outstanding in life insurance policies.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Claims Filed The total number of claims submitted to an insurance company. Claims outstanding is the difference between claims filed and those settled.
Claims Settled The total number of claims that have been resolved and paid. Claims outstanding reflects unresolved claims, while claims settled does not.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are dealing with claims outstanding, consider the following steps:

  • Review your insurance policy to understand your coverage and claims process.
  • Keep records of all claims filed and any communications with your insurance company.
  • Utilize US Legal Forms to access legal templates that can assist you in managing your claims.
  • Consult a legal professional if you encounter complex issues or disputes regarding claims outstanding.

Quick facts

  • Claims outstanding can impact an insurance company's financial health.
  • Timely reporting of claims is essential for accurate accounting.
  • Claims outstanding can vary significantly by state regulations.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It refers to the total amount of claims that have been filed but not yet settled by an insurance company.