I’m just starting out with insurance and honestly, this is what worries me most. I’ve been making a spreadsheet for my stuff and snapping pics, but it’s wild how much depends on who you get. Guess I’ll just keep everything super organized and hope for the best...
Guess I’ll just keep everything super organized and hope for the best...
- Keeping a spreadsheet and photos is exactly what I’d recommend.
- Claims do depend on the adjuster, but having your stuff documented really helps smooth things out.
- Make sure you back up those pics somewhere safe (cloud, email, whatever).
- Both USAA and State Farm have their pros and cons, but being organized puts you ahead of most folks.
- Don’t stress too much—being prepared is half the battle.
Honestly, I get the whole “be super organized” thing, but sometimes it feels like overkill. I’ve had claims with both USAA and State Farm, and in my experience, even with all my docs and photos lined up, it still came down to how motivated the adjuster was that day. I’d say don’t stress too much about having everything perfect—just make sure you’ve got the basics covered. Sometimes less is more, and obsessing over every receipt can drive you nuts.
Honestly, I get what you’re saying about not needing to have every single thing in order. I’ve dealt with State Farm twice and USAA once, and both times it felt like the adjuster’s attitude made more difference than my paperwork. That said, I do think having the basics—photos, estimates, main receipts—makes things smoother if they start asking questions. No need to go overboard, but I’d rather have one extra doc than be stuck waiting because I missed something simple. Over-prepping just stresses me out, too.
I hear you on the adjuster making all the difference. Had a ‘72 Chevelle rear-ended last year—State Farm’s guy was super chill, barely glanced at my stack of docs, just wanted a few photos and a quick rundown. USAA, on the other hand, grilled me about every little receipt for my restoration parts. I keep most stuff handy, but man, digging through old invoices is a pain. Guess it really does come down to who you get that day...
