How to File an Insurance Ombudsman Complaint — Complete Guide (2026)

What Is the Insurance Ombudsman?

The Insurance Ombudsman is a quasi-judicial body established under the Insurance Ombudsman Rules, 2017 to resolve complaints from policyholders against insurance companies. It provides a free, fast, and impartial mechanism to resolve insurance disputes without going to court.

There are 17 Ombudsman offices across India, each serving specific states and union territories.

When Can You Approach the Insurance Ombudsman?

You can file a complaint when:

Your insurance **claim has been rejected** by the company

Your claim has been **partially settled** without adequate explanation

The company has **not responded** to your claim within 30 days

There is a dispute about the **premium, policy terms, or claim amount**

Prerequisite: You must first complain to the insurance company's grievance cell. Only after receiving an unsatisfactory response (or no response within 30 days) can you approach the Ombudsman.

What Types of Insurance Are Covered?

The Ombudsman handles complaints related to:

Health insurance

Life insurance

Motor insurance

Home insurance

Travel insurance

Any other general insurance policy

Award limits: Up to ₹30 lakh for life and general insurance, ₹2 lakh for health insurance.

How to File — Step by Step

Step 1: Complain to Your Insurance Company

File a written complaint with the insurer's grievance cell. Note down the complaint reference number and date.

Step 2: Wait 30 Days

If the insurer rejects your complaint or doesn't respond within 30 days, you become eligible to approach the Ombudsman.

Step 3: Identify Your Regional Ombudsman Office

The Ombudsman office is determined by your state. For example, Maharashtra complaints go to the Mumbai office, Karnataka complaints to Bengaluru.

Step 4: Submit Your Complaint

File your complaint:

Online: via the IGMS portal at [igms.irda.gov.in](https://igms.irda.gov.in)

By post: Send to your regional Ombudsman office

Step 5: Attend the Hearing

The Ombudsman will hear both sides and pass an award within 3 months. The award is binding on the insurance company.

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