If you’ve received a Request for Information (RFI) letter from your insurance company, take a deep breath — this is a normal part of the claims process and not something to be afraid of. It simply means the insurance company needs more details before it can move forward with processing your claim. Think of it like a checklist: they’re asking for documentation, answers, or clarity to help them understand what happened and what coverage might apply.

The RFI letter is important because everything about your claim is tied to the language in your insurance policy. This letter is often used to reference specific sections of your policy that are relevant to your claim — including what the insurance company is required to do, and what you, the insured, are expected to do in return. In many cases, the RFI letter is the carrier’s way of making sure both sides are working within the boundaries of the policy agreement. It’s a communication tool, not a warning or accusation.

One section that’s frequently mentioned in an RFI is the “Duties After Loss” provision. This is a part of your policy that outlines what you’re expected to do after a loss occurs in order to keep your claim moving forward. Typical duties may include things like notifying your carrier promptly, protecting the property from further damage, providing proof of loss, cooperating with inspections, and submitting requested documents in a timely manner. If these duties aren’t followed, it can sometimes slow down or even impact your claim — so the RFI is a way to gently remind you of these responsibilities.

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