noun
claim
In plain English
A formal demand for payment under an insurance policy, made by the insured (first party) or by a third party against the insured.
First-party claims (your stuff): you file with your own carrier. Third-party claims (someone else's loss caused by you): they file with their carrier or sue you, and your liability coverage responds.
What it covers
The investigation, defense, and indemnity available under the policy in response to a claim that meets policy triggers.
What it does not cover
Filing a claim does NOT obligate the carrier to pay if the loss isn't covered. The investigation determines coverage; payment follows.
Where it trips people up
Frequency of small claims (multiple under-deductible reports, abandoned claims) hurts your renewal pricing more than one moderate claim. Don't report what you wouldn't actually file.
The technical version
A demand made on an insurer for payment of benefits under an insurance policy, arising from a covered loss or third-party allegation.