Washington Adopts Updated Minimum Standards for Insurance Claims Handling

Washington — Clarifying and updating the minimum standards for claims handling (R 2025-05): Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer has adopted rules to define unfair trade practices and to help clarify the minimum standards for claims handling in Washington state. The rule allows the insurance industry and Washington state consumers a more fair and transparent claim process. The rule clarifies and adds definitions and specific unfair claim practices concerning claims handling, particularly when the insurer is considering coverage determinations, and if coverage is available, the loss and damage valuation that is owed under the policy. The rule adds additional requirements for the insurer to provide detailed information to the claimant at certain points in the claim process.

For more information, including the adopted rule and the concise explanatory statement,please visit the rule's webpage.