Claim evidence checklist for UK pet insurance
Most claim delays are paperwork, not medical. Use this checklist before you submit so the insurer has what it needs first time.
Before you open the claim
- Policy number and policyholder name (as on the schedule).
- Pet's name, species, breed, sex, date of birth or age, and microchip number if you have it.
- Date you first noticed the problem, and when the vet first examined it.
- Whether this links to any earlier illness, injury, or "wait and see" advice -- write dates honestly.
Documents insurers usually ask for
- Itemised vet invoice -- dates, procedures, drugs, quantities, and prices. A single lump sum often triggers a chase.
- Clinical notes or insurer claim form -- many practices complete the vet section digitally; ask them early.
- Referral letters and test results -- bloodwork, imaging reports, pathology, where relevant.
- Vaccination or preventive history -- especially if the condition could relate to preventable disease.
- Bank details -- if you are claiming reimbursement rather than direct settlement to the practice.
Details that commonly cause a bounce-back
- Missing signature or incomplete vet section.
- Invoice pet name that does not match the policy pet.
- Vague "onset" dates when the notes mention earlier symptoms.
- Photos of crumpled receipts instead of a clear itemised invoice.
- Claiming two pets on one form without labelling which line belongs to which animal.
While the claim is open
Keep one folder (email or paper) with the claim reference, every upload, and every reply. If the insurer asks for more, answer the exact question and attach the matching file -- do not assume they still have an earlier attachment in front of them.
If payment is direct to the vet, confirm with the practice what you still owe (excess, co-insurance, excluded lines). If you paid in full, keep the receipt until reimbursement clears.
Related guides
How to make a claim - If a claim is rejected - Excess & pre-existing - How long claims take
Compare pet insurance (affiliate link pending Awin approval -- may go direct for now)
This is general information, not financial advice. Your policy wording and insurer decide claims. Pawfolk is not an insurer or broker. See our affiliate disclosure. Not affiliated with Pawfolk Ltd (Norfolk boarding).