Built by Richard Vaughn, CPCU, ARM, AIS — 35 years in commercial lines P&C, workers' comp TPA founder, and independent insurance consultant.

Proof of Loss: Explained + Generic Fillable Form

A sworn proof of loss is a formal statement of your claim, signed under oath. This free document explains what it is, why the policy deadline matters, how to complete each section, and what to attach, and includes a generic fillable form. Carriers may require their own form; use theirs if they send one.

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Who it is for

Policyholders with an open property claim and anyone who has been asked by an adjuster to submit a proof of loss.

What is inside

  • Two-page plain-language explanation: what it is, the sworn statement, deadline language, how to complete it, what to attach
  • Generic fillable proof of loss form with notary block
  • Checklist of attachments: inventory, estimates, photos, receipts
  • Notes on the difference between a notice of claim and a proof of loss
AI prompt pack: fill this template with ChatGPT or Claude

Paste the prompt below into ChatGPT or Claude together with your own documents (declarations pages, certificates, P&L, contracts). It is written to return results in this template's column order.

You are a property insurance claims consultant. Here is the loss section of my policy and the adjuster's letter: [paste]. Tell me the proof of loss deadline that applies, list the documents I need to attach, and draft the description-of-loss paragraph for my Proof of Loss form based on these facts: [paste facts].

Check anything an AI tool returns against the source document before you rely on it. The prompt is a starting point, not a substitute for reading the policy.

Questions

Is a proof of loss the same as filing a claim?

No. Notice of claim tells the carrier a loss happened; a proof of loss is a sworn statement of what you are claiming and how much. The deadline depends on the policy, the insurer's request, and applicable state requirements. Confirm the deadline before submitting.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

The carrier may deny the claim or delay payment. If you cannot meet the deadline, ask for an extension in writing before it passes.

Do I have to use the carrier's form?

If the carrier sends one, use it. The generic form in this download is for carriers that do not provide one or for organizing your figures before you complete theirs.

Does the proof of loss have to be notarized?

Most forms include a notary block because the statement is sworn. Some carriers accept an unsworn signed statement; the document explains what to check.

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