Filing a claim with AIG depends on what you're insured for and how you contact them

AIG handles auto insurance claims through a few different routes depending on whether you have a policy directly with AIG or through a partner company. Most people start by calling AIG's claims line, using their mobile app, or filing online through their customer portal. The process is faster if you have your policy number, the other driver's information (if applicable), and photos of any damage taken at the scene.

AIG owns multiple insurance brands — including National General, Homesite, and others — so your actual claim process depends on which brand issued your policy. Check your insurance card or policy documents to see which AIG subsidiary you're insured through. That company name is what you'll use to find the right claims phone number and portal.

Key Takeaways

  • You can file an AIG auto claim by phone, through their mobile app, or online via your customer portal, and the method you choose affects how quickly they assign an adjuster.
  • Have your policy number, the other driver's license and insurance information, and photos of damage ready before you call, because claims reps will ask for these details when ready.
  • AIG typically assigns an adjuster within one business day for collision or comprehensive claims, and that adjuster will contact you to schedule an inspection.
  • The claims process usually takes two to four weeks from filing to settlement, but disputes over fault or damage estimates can extend that timeline significantly.

How to file a claim by phone

Calling AIG's claims line is the fastest way to get a human on the phone and start the process when ready. Find the claims phone number on your insurance card or policy documents — it's usually a dedicated line separate from customer service. When you call, have ready: your policy number, the date and time of the incident, a description of what happened, and the other driver's name, phone number, license plate, and insurance information if another vehicle was involved.

The claims representative will ask you to describe the damage and may ask follow-up questions about how the incident occurred. They'll also ask whether you or anyone else was injured. Be factual and stick to what you observed; don't speculate about fault or accept blame. The rep will assign a claim number on the spot and tell you when to expect contact from an adjuster. Write down the claim number and the rep's name before you hang up.

Filing online or through the AIG mobile app

AIG's online portal and mobile app let you file a claim without calling, which can be useful if you're filing outside business hours or prefer written documentation. Log into your account on the AIG website or open the mobile app, then look for a "File a Claim" or "Report a Claim" button. You'll be asked to describe the incident, upload photos of the damage, and provide the other driver's information if applicable.

Online filing usually generates a claim number when ready, but you won't speak to anyone until an adjuster contacts you — typically within 24 hours on weekdays. If your claim is straightforward (a single-vehicle incident with clear damage), online filing can be faster than waiting on hold. However, if you're unsure about coverage or the incident is complex, calling is better because you can ask questions in real time.

What happens after you file

After you submit your claim, AIG assigns an adjuster who will contact you within one business day to schedule an inspection. The adjuster will examine the vehicle, review your description of what happened, and estimate repair costs. For minor damage, some adjusters can complete the inspection and approve payment in one visit. For major damage or disputes over fault, the process takes longer because the adjuster may need to investigate further or request additional documentation.

During the inspection, be present if possible so you can point out all damage and answer questions. Bring any photos you took at the scene and any repair estimates you've obtained. If you disagree with the adjuster's damage estimate, you can request a second opinion or hire an independent appraiser — AIG will consider that appraisal in their final decision, though they're not required to accept it.

Timeline from claim filing to payment

A straightforward claim typically moves from filing to payment in two to four weeks. The timeline breaks down roughly as: claim filed (day 1), adjuster assigned and contacts you (day 2), inspection scheduled and completed (days 3–7), damage estimate finalized (days 8–14), and payment issued (days 15–28). This assumes no complications and that you respond promptly to the adjuster's requests.

Disputes over fault, missing documentation, or disagreements about repair costs can extend this timeline to six weeks or longer. If the other driver's insurance is involved, AIG may need to coordinate with them before settling. If you're waiting longer than a week without hearing from an adjuster, call the claims line again with your claim number and ask for a status update.

Documents and information you'll need

Before you file, gather your policy documents, driver's license, and any photos of the damage taken when ready after the incident. If another vehicle was involved, get the other driver's name, phone number, address, driver's license number, license plate, and insurance company and policy number. If there were witnesses, collect their names and phone numbers. If police responded, get the report number and the officer's name.

For comprehensive claims (theft, weather, vandalism), you may need to provide a police report or proof of the incident. For collision claims, photos of the damage from multiple angles are essential — take them in daylight if possible, and include wide shots showing the overall scene as well as close-ups of specific damage. If you've already obtained repair estimates from a shop, include those too, though AIG will get their own estimate regardless.

Disputing an AIG claim decision

If AIG denies your claim or offers a settlement you believe is too low, you have options. First, ask the adjuster or claims manager to explain their decision in writing. Request a detailed breakdown of how they calculated the damage estimate or why they denied coverage. If you disagree, you can request that AIG reconsider — this is called a reconsideration or appeal, and it's free.

For disputes over the damage estimate, hiring an independent appraiser can help. The appraiser inspects the vehicle and provides their own estimate; AIG will review it, though they don't have to accept it. If you believe AIG wrongly denied your claim based on your policy terms, you can file a complaint with your state's insurance commissioner. That office investigates for free and can pressure AIG to reconsider if they find the denial unjustified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my own repair shop, or does AIG require me to use one of theirs?

You can use any repair shop you want — AIG cannot require you to use a specific shop. However, if you use a shop outside AIG's network, you may pay out of pocket and then submit the receipt for reimbursement, or the shop may need to negotiate the estimate directly with AIG. Using a network shop is often simpler because they bill AIG directly.

What if I don't have the other driver's insurance information at the scene?

Tell the AIG claims rep when ready. They can still file your claim and may be able to locate the other driver's insurance through the police report or license plate. If the other driver is uninsured or unidentified, you may be able to claim under your uninsured motorist coverage, depending on your policy.

How long do I have to file a claim after an incident?

Most insurance policies require you to report a claim within a specific timeframe — often 30 to 60 days, though it varies. Check your policy documents for the exact important date. Filing as soon as possible is always better because it preserves evidence and prevents disputes about when the incident occurred.

Will filing a claim raise my insurance rates?

That depends on whether the claim is your fault and your state's laws. At-fault collision claims often result in a rate increase, while comprehensive claims (theft, weather) usually do not. AIG will tell you whether they expect your rates to change when they settle your claim.

What if AIG totals my vehicle?

If repair costs exceed a certain percentage of the vehicle's value — usually 70 to 80 percent, depending on your state — AIG will declare it a total loss. They'll offer you the actual cash value of the vehicle based on market data. You can dispute that valuation by providing comparable vehicle listings or hiring an independent appraiser.