What information do I need to file an auto insurance claim with State Farm?

What you need to file an auto insurance claim with State Farm depends on the severity of the incident. However, it's wise to take photos and get witness contact information, insurance and license details from other drivers, a police report, and more to ensure you can successfully file your State Farm claim. 

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate
AllstateProgressiveState FarmNationwideLiberty MutualFarmers Insurance
Daniel Walker

Licensed Insurance Agent

Daniel Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has run his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for over 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an insurance agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. To ensure our content is accura...

Written by
Daniel Walker
Eric Stauffer

Licensed Insurance Agent

Eric Stauffer is an insurance agent and banker-turned-consumer advocate. His priority is educating individuals and families about the different types of insurance coverage. He is passionate about helping consumers find the best coverage for their budgets and personal needs. Eric is the CEO of C Street Media, a full-service marketing firm and the co-founder of ProperCents.com, a financial educat...

Reviewed by
Eric Stauffer

Updated February 2024

What You Should Know

  • When possible, It’s important to gather as much relevant information as possible at the scene of an accident
  • State Farm may need documentation, accident details, contact information from other parties, police reports, and more to process your claim
  • If you don’t provide the information State Farm needs when filing, it can result in delays, claim denial, and other issues

If you’re wondering what you need to file an auto insurance claim with State Farm, it is primarily evidence you can gather at the scene of an accident. State Farm auto insurance often needs specific information like photographic evidence and documentation to properly assess how much to pay you.

Basic details are not enough, so it’s important to remain calm and collect everything you need at the scene. Read on to learn more.

Information You Need to File an Auto Insurance Claim With State Farm

If your vehicle damage is significant and you know how to file an auto insurance claim, your next step is to be thorough and collect all relevant information. Below, you will find what you need to file a claim:

  • Your insurance policy and details
  • A clear explanation of the events leading up to an incident and the incident itself
  • The exact time, date, and location of an incident
  • The license plate number and a photo of the other driver’s license, along with their insurance details and contact information (learn what to do if you didn’t get any insurance information after an accident)
  • Contact details of any witnesses, along with statements about what they saw
  • A police report if there were extensive damages and/or injuries (in many cases, this is required by law)
  • Photographic evidence showing the severity of the damage
  • Medical records and repair estimates

Road and vehicle incidents range in severity, and you may not need all of these details for claim submission. However, it’s always best to present more information to State Farm than necessary.

Read more: How do I file an auto insurance claim with State Farm?

Free Insurance Comparison

Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate

If You Don’t Include Enough Information in Your State Farm Auto Insurance Claim

If State Farm doesn’t get the information it needs, it can complicate your claim and lead to disappointing results. These may include:

  • Slow claim processing and lengthy wait times
  • An inability to determine how extensive vehicle damage or loss is
  • An inability to determine liability
  • Getting less money than you need for repairs
  • Claim denial

To submit everything you need on time, call State Farm at 1-800-782-8332 to explain your situation and ask what information the company requires.

Information You Need to File a Claim With State Farm: The Final Verdict

Being thorough while gathering information increases your chances of successfully resolving your auto insurance claim with State Farm. Simply explaining what happened is rarely enough, and you must take control of the incident, be observant, and document everything until you file your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I don’t have the information to file my auto insurance claim?

In some scenarios, you may have to deal with an uncooperative driver who is at fault. You may also need to be prepared for what happens if you hit an uninsured driver. If they refuse to give you their personal information, you should write down their license plate number so the police can help you.

 

Call your insurance company if you’re still missing important information. Your agent or adjuster can offer solutions, and many companies understand that not every situation allows for immediate action. However, remember that your claim may take longer to process.

Can I file an auto insurance claim online?

Yes. Most reputable auto insurance companies allow you to create an online account and file claims using an app or website. Even if you start your claim online, you can always call your insurance company for guidance with a complicated claim. 

Are there deadlines for filing a claim?

There are rarely immediate deadlines. However, most states have a statute of limitations on claims within a few years, so it’s important to file promptly to ensure you get compensated.

Get a FREE Quote in Minutes

Insurance rates change constantly — we help you stay ahead by making it easy to compare top options and save.

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate
ProgressiveState FarmFarmers InsuranceLiberty Mutual

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Compare over 200 auto insurance companies at once!

By clicking, you agree to our Terms of Use

Nationwide State Farm Allstate