Many people – insurance companies, state insurance departments, and certain consumer groups – are working together to combat insurance fraud. You as a policyholder or as a member of the general public can help in these efforts.
An important objective of Farmers Mutual Hail’s (“FMH”) administration of insurance operations is to recognize and deter fraudulent insurance acts. Specifically FMH is committed to preventing fraud:
- Concerning work-related activities involving the Company’s employees, appointed producers, and independent contractors;
- Resulting from misrepresentations by applicants and proposed insureds on insurance applications and related underwriting documents; and
- When claims are filed, including misrepresentations in claims forms and related documents.
Special Investigative Unit (SIU)
In an effort to combat fraud, waste and abuse, FMH utilizes a Special Investigative Unit (SIU). The SIU assists in the discovery, investigation, and prosecution of fraud within the crop and agribusiness insurance industries.
How to Report Suspected Fraud
Any suspected fraudulent activity may be reported by the following sources:
USDA Fraud Hotline
If you suspect fraud, waste or abuse in the federal crop insurance program you may call the USDA's toll-free fraud hotline at 1-800-424-9121. The hotline is staffed between the hours of 9:00 am and 3:00 pm (Eastern Time). You may also write USDA's Office of Inspector General (OIG), P.O. Box 23399, Washington, DC 20026. Additionally you can submit a complaint electronically. Whether calling or writing, always include as much detail as you can.
For additional information on reporting crop insurance fraud, please click on the following link:
http://www.usda.gov/oig/hotline.htm
National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Information regarding possible fraudulent activities to report to your local state agency can be reported through the Online Fraud Reporting System maintained on behalf of all states by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners at this address: https://eapps.naic.org/ofrs/ofrsHome.jsp.
Farmers Mutual Hail
By calling FMH directly at 1-800-247-5248.