How to Write a Complaint Letter about an Unfair Settlement

Most of us take out insurance for many things in our lives; for example, car insurance, home and contents insurance, travel insurance, medical insurance. When the time comes that we actually need to make a claim, we expect the insurance settlement to be paid quickly and correctly by the insurance company. Sometimes this can be problematic, due to different understandings of what your insurance agreement actually covers, or even due to negligence on the part of the insurer.

In the case of an insurance settlement that you consider to be unfair or not made according to the terms of your agreement, you need to approach your insurance company in writing, stating your case and the facts clearly. Below we will give an example of 'bad' writing in a complaint letter, followed by an example edited for clarity, and checked for grammar and spelling by WhiteSmoke Writing Software. WhiteSmoke will make sure that your letter is devoid of errors, and suggest alternative words to make your complaint more effective. The idea is to make your writing as clear as possible to ensure your letter gets an appropriate response.

Original Text

I got your check at the amount of $860 for the hail damage to my car. You said that its depreciated value of a 15-year old Skylark. I am paying "replacement value" for the past 15 years in order to be paid replacement value on any claim made! What is goin on ! I essume that the incorrect payment was an oversight, and request that you send me a check for the difference immediately!

Text After WhiteSmoke

I received your check in the amount of $860 as your settlement for the hail damage to my car. Your letter indicated that this was the depreciated value of a 15-year old Buick Skylark.

I am enclosing a copy of my last premium statement, which clearly shows I pay a "replacement value" surcharge. I have paid this surcharge for the past 15 years in order to be paid replacement value on any claim made.

I assume that the incorrect payment was an oversight, and request that you send me a check for the difference as soon as possible. If you need any additional information, please call me at 555-5555.

 
By presenting your case clearly and calmly, you are halfway there. To make sure your letter reads correctly and puts your case across, turn to WhiteSmoke Writing Software - most complete writing tool available.