
Filing an insurance claim can be a confusing and overwhelming process, but it's essential to understand the policyholder's responsibilities beforehand. The policyholder must pay a certain amount, known as the deductible, before the insurance provider covers the remaining costs.
A deductible is a fixed amount that the policyholder must pay out-of-pocket for each claim, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. This amount can vary depending on the type of insurance policy and the insurance provider.
For example, a policyholder with a comprehensive auto insurance policy might have a deductible of $500 for collision claims. If their car is damaged in an accident, they would need to pay the first $500 towards the repair costs before the insurance provider covers the remaining expenses.
This upfront payment can help prevent frivolous claims and encourage policyholders to be more mindful of their insurance coverage.
What Is a Deductible?
A deductible is a specific amount of money that you must pay out of pocket before your health insurance provider starts covering approved medical expenses. This amount can vary depending on your insurance plan.

There are two common types of health insurance deductibles: per prescription deductible and annual deductible. The per prescription deductible requires you to pay a set amount each time you purchase prescription drugs, while the annual deductible must be met on a yearly basis.
For example, if your deductible is $20, you would pay this amount each time you purchase prescription drugs, with the remaining balance covered by your provider.
Do I Pay Each Time I Make a Claim?
You only pay a deductible when you file a claim that carries a deductible. This typically includes accidents, theft, or vandalism.
Your insurance policy will outline the deductible amount you must pay for these types of claims. For example, your Ontario auto insurance policy may specify a deductible for accidents or theft.
You'll likely pay a deductible for claims related to damage to your building, loss of use, or personal property damages on your home policy.
It's worth noting that filing a claim can increase your payments upon renewal, so it's essential to consider the cost before making a claim.
Payment Amount

The payment amount is not always equal to the policy's maximum coverage. Reimbursement may be lower than the policy's maximum coverage, as seen in a claim for $20,000 on a policy for $100,000 of coverage.
To receive payment, you'll need to document the damage sustained from a covered loss, such as the cost of making repairs or replacing damaged property. This is especially important for homeowner insurance claims.
You'll only pay a deductible when you file a claim that carries one, and the amount will be outlined in your policy. For example, your Ontario auto insurance will specify the deductible amount for partially or fully at-fault accidents.
The deductible is the amount you must pay before the insurance company begins to pay, and it can vary depending on the type of insurance and the claim.
Car Insurance Deductible
A car insurance deductible is the amount you'll personally pay before your provider pays the rest. This amount varies based on your individual policy.

Choosing a higher deductible can lower your rate, as it reduces the odds of you filing smaller claims. For instance, a $2,000 deductible will have a lower premium than a $500 option.
You'll only pay a deductible when you file a car insurance claim. The amount will depend on your policy and individual needs.
If you cause an accident, you'll pay the deductible, but if you're not at fault or have accident forgiveness, your insurer may waive the fee. This is why it's essential to factor in your deductibles when searching for coverage.
The purpose of insurance is to reimburse you after a loss, but reimbursement may not equal the maximum coverage of your policy. For example, if your insurance company approves a claim for $20,000, a policy for $100,000 of coverage will only pay the $20,000 claim.
To receive reimbursement, you must document the damage sustained from a covered loss. This includes showing the value of your belongings and the extent of damage sustained.
Home Insurance Deductible

A homeowner's deductible works in virtually the same way as with other forms of home insurance in Ontario, with the main difference being there may be several deductibles for different amounts for specific types of coverage.
A typical deductible for homeowners is $1,000, although many opt for a higher $2,000 deductible, and this includes condo owners.
For renters, they commonly have $500 deductibles.
Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, as seen with a $2,000 deductible having a lower premium than one with the $500 option.
Higher deductibles reduce the odds of you filing smaller claims, which can save you money in the long run.
You pay the deductible if you cause the accident, and if you are not the cause of the accident or have accident forgiveness, your insurer may waive the fee.
Sources
- https://abcdennisinsurance.com/blog/claims/top-things-need-know-insurance-claim
- https://redondolawfirm.com/insurance-claims/filing-a-homeowners-insurance-claim-after-a-hurricane/
- https://www.thinkinsure.ca/insurance-help-centre/insurance-deductibles-and-how-they-work.html
- https://quizizz.com/admin/quiz/5e6fa45ff96525001b2da9c8/north-plc-everfi-module-7-insurance
- https://www.adjustersinternational.com/resources/news-and-events/before-you-file-a-property-damage-insurance-claim/
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