I Need to Submit a Claim — What Do I Do First?

The first step you take after a loss can impact your rates more than you realize.

If you have just experienced an accident, storm damage, theft, or another unexpected loss, your first thought is probably:

“I need to submit a claim… what do I do first?”

It is a stressful moment. Emotions are high. You want the problem fixed quickly.

But the very first call you make matters.

Step One: Call Your Agent Before You Call the 1-800 Number

If you are a Trailstone client, your first call should be to Trailstone — not the claims hotline on your insurance card.

Most people assume they should immediately call the carrier directly: State Farm, USAA, Farmers, GEICO, or whoever holds the policy.

But here is what many do not realize:

Once a claim is filed with the carrier, it is typically recorded on your claims history — even if you later decide not to move forward.

That record can affect:

• Your future premiums
• Your eligibility with certain carriers
• Your renewal status
• Your CLUE report

Not every situation should automatically become a claim.

Sometimes Paying Out of Pocket Is Smarter

There are situations where filing a claim makes sense.

There are also situations where it may cost you more long term.

For example:

• If damages are only slightly above your deductible
• If filing a small claim could trigger premium increases
• If multiple claims in a short time frame could risk non-renewal

Before you officially file, it helps to understand the potential long-term impact.

That is where guidance matters.

How Trailstone Is Different

When you call a large direct carrier, you are speaking with a claims department that works for the insurance company.

When you call Trailstone, you are speaking with your advocate.

We work with more than 40 A-rated carriers. We see how each one handles claims. We understand which companies are more forgiving and which are more strict.

Our job is to help you make an informed decision before something permanent goes on your record.

We will:

• Explain whether the situation is likely claim-worthy
• Help you estimate potential claim impact
• Guide you on documentation to gather
• Connect with the carrier properly if filing makes sense
• Help structure the claim correctly from the start

You will not be stuck in a call center loop or handed off to someone who does not know your situation.

The Long-Term View: The TRAC Process

At Trailstone, we built our TRAC process — Trailstone Risk Assessment and Comparison.

This means your claim is never viewed in isolation.

We look at:

• How it affects your renewal
• How it impacts long-term rates
• How it fits into your overall coverage strategy

Insurance is not just about today’s damage. It is about protecting your financial position long term.

General Steps in the Claims Process

If filing a claim is the right move, here is what typically happens:

• Review your policy coverage and deductible
• Document the damage with photos or video
• Gather relevant reports (police, contractor estimates, medical bills)
• Submit the claim accurately and completely
• Cooperate with the assigned adjuster
• Review the settlement carefully before accepting

Having an advocate guide you through these steps can make the process far less stressful.

Bottom Line

If you are wondering, “I need to submit a claim — what do I do first?” the answer is simple:

Call your agent first.

Insurance companies work for themselves.

Trailstone works for you.

If you are facing a loss and need guidance, reach out. We will help you decide the smartest path forward and walk with you from start to finish.