How Long to File a Supplement in Texas Car Insurance

Yes, in Texas you generally have up to 30 days to submit a supplement request—but timing, proof, and insurer response rules are key.

I found more damage after repairs started—what now?

A supplement is simply additional repair costs discovered after the initial estimate. For example, the body shop thought only the bumper needed repair. But once they start fixing it, they see hidden damage to the frame. They request a supplement to cover the extra work.

Am I too late to submit the supplement?

Most Texas policies say you must request supplements “promptly” or within a “reasonable time.” In practice, that usually means within 30 days of the accident or initial repair. Waiting too long can lead the insurer to deny your claim.
According to Texas law, insurance companies must respond quickly. They have 15 business days to acknowledge your claim and ask for more info. After getting that, they have another 15 business days to accept or reject it. This same clock applies to supplements once all info is submitted.

What if I miss the deadline or my supplement gets denied?

Worry #1: “What if I find damage after the 30-day window?”

• You can still submit, but the insurer may argue you’ve waited too long and deny it. It’s best to send supplements as soon as the shop uncovers additional damage.
  Worry #2: “Will they delay to avoid paying?”
• Texas requires a decision within 15 business days. If they take longer (up to 45 more days), they have to explain why and let you know the new timeline.
  Worry #3: “Can I lose coverage if I miss the deadline?”
• If your policy has a “late notice” clause, missing supplement deadlines could jeopardize your claim or give the insurer grounds to reduce or deny payment.

Easy Steps to File a Texas Car Insurance Supplement

1. Discover Hidden Damage
   • When your repair shop begins work and uncovers extra damage not included in the original estimate—like frame issues, torn sensors, or internal parts—note it immediately.
2. Ask the Shop to Prepare a Detailed Supplement
   • The shop should submit a clear supplement request, with itemized costs, photos, and a note explaining “new damage discovered.” This shows the damage is directly related to the original accident.
3. Submit the Supplement Promptly (Within 30 Days)
   • Texas policies typically require supplements to be submitted promptly or within a reasonable time—usually around 30 days after identifying the damage. Delays could cause your claim to be denied.
4. Follow Texas Prompt-Pay Timelines
   • Once your insurer receives the supplement, they have 15 business days to:
     • Acknowledge receipt,
     • Review any necessary information, and
     • Approve or deny your request.
   • If more time is needed, they can extend by up to 45 days—but must notify you first.
5. Expect Prompt Payment
   • If the supplement is approved, the insurer must pay within 5 business days of acceptance, assuming all required proof and documentation have been submitted.
6. Track All Deadlines and Responses
   • Keep a file with:
     • Date you submitted the supplement,
     • Insurance acknowledgment,
     • Approval or denial letter,
     • Any payment received (or not) within 5 days of approval.
7. Act Quickly If There’s a Delay or Denial
   • If the insurer fails to respond in time or denies your supplement:
     • Request a written denial with reasons.
     • Contact the Texas Department of Insurance if they violate prompt-pay rules—after 60 days without payment, you may also be entitled to 18% annual interest plus legal fees.
8. Consider Professional Help for Disputes
   • If your supplement is unjustly rejected or delayed, you can:
     • Hire a public adjuster or
     • Consult an insurance attorney
       to strengthen and enforce your claim.

My rental coverage stopped during delays—what can I do?

One Reddit user described being rear-ended. The shop submitted a supplement five days after the initial estimate. The insurer delayed approving it and ended rental coverage early, causing major disruption. They eventually won a complaint through the Department of Insurance, but it took persistence.
Lesson: Submit supplements quickly, follow up often, and document all delays.

Is the insurance company allowed to delay my supplement?

Under Texas’s prompt-pay rules:

• Insurers must acknowledge you filed a supplement within 15 business days.
• They must accept or deny it within another 15 days—or explain a delay.
• If they delay beyond 45 additional days, they must notify you.

How can I make sure my supplement isn’t rejected?

• Submit the supplement ASAP—ideally within 30 days.
• Include complete documentation—photos, estimates, records.
• Follow up regularly—you’re entitled to timely responses.
• Escalate to the Texas Department of Insurance if your supplement stalls.

What mistakes could cost me my claim?

• Policy fine print—some specify “reasonable time” while others give 60–90 days. Always check.
• Insurance may deny if damage seems unrelated—so ensure the shop connects every supplement to the original accident.
• Switching insurers doesn’t wipe out your supplement rights—your old insurer still owes the claim if it’s valid.

What if the insurance company still refuses to pay?

• Ask for a written denial with reasons. Texas requires this.
• Consider hiring a public adjuster or insurance attorney.
• File a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance—they can investigate and enforce prompt-pay rules.

How can I protect my claim from delays or denials?

• Submit supplements promptly, ideally within 30 days of noticing new damage.
• Know the 15/15/45 day response rule under Texas law.
• Document everything to support your supplement request.
• Act fast on delays or denials—your claim rights depend on it.
  If your repair shop finds hidden damage after the initial work, you shouldn’t struggle to get paid. Just act fast, provide proof, and hold your insurer accountable to the rules.