A handful of the states allow you to transmit the complaint information electronically. Some of the Web sites that don't post forms suggest calling, writing, or e-mailing the department about your complaint. After receiving the company's reply, insurance department officials will dig deeper, trying to determine what, if anything, can and should be done. The whole process usually takes at least 30 days, although more complicated cases will take longer. What the department can do If the insurance department decides against the insurance company or agent, the department can levy a variety of penalties, ranging anywhere from a fine to revoking the license of the agent or company.
Departments can penalize companies deliberately dragging their feet on claims.
The insurance department also can call for new legislation or regulations. Of course, such actions could help prevent problems in the future, but they're rarely retroactive. In some cases, your complaint may be outside the jurisdiction of the insurance department. It may, for example, be transferred to other state agencies, including the attorney general's office, the Department of Labor, or the workers compensation commission. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.