What Should I Know If I've Been Declined for Insurance?

By Jamie Montalvo, Independent Insurance Broker & Risk Advisor · NPN #20985449
Updated September 29, 2026

Short answer: A "no" from one insurance company is not a "no" from every company. Each insurer has its own rules about the risks it wants to cover. An independent broker can look at other insurers, including companies that specialize in harder-to-place risks. Coverage may cost more or come with different terms, but options often exist.

Why people get declined or non-renewed

Common reasons include:

• Driving history: accidents, tickets, a DUI, or a lapse in coverage
• Claims history: several claims in a short period
• The property: its age, roof condition, location, or past damage
• Health history for life or disability insurance
• The business itself: a new venture, an unusual operation, or a hard-to-insure industry
• The company's own appetite: sometimes an insurer simply stops writing a type of risk in an area, and it has nothing to do with you

Ask the company for the reason in writing. You're generally entitled to know why, and it helps whoever is looking for your next policy.

What your options may look like

• Other standard insurers. Rules differ a lot between companies. What one declines, another may accept.
• Non-standard auto insurers that write drivers with more challenging records. If you're required to file an SR-22, it's filed through an insurer.
• Specialty and surplus lines markets for commercial, property and unusual risks that standard companies won't write.
• Different kinds of life insurance. Some policies have simplified health questions, and some are guaranteed-issue, typically with lower coverage amounts and waiting periods.

Things that can improve your options over time

Time without new accidents or claims, a clean inspection or repairs to the property, continuous coverage without lapses, and accurate, complete applications all help.

The bottom line

If you've been declined, don't assume you're out of options, and don't go uninsured. I'd be glad to look at your situation and explore what may be available. Tell me what happened.

This article is general information, not advice about your specific policy. Coverage depends on the policy issued and varies by state, carrier and underwriting.

Ask Jamie about your situation