Every policy has a notice provision requiring you to report a loss promptly. The exact wording varies, but most carriers expect notice within days to weeks, not months. Late notice is a common reason for claim denials. Specific deadlines worth knowing. NFIP flood policies require a sworn Proof of Loss within 60 days of the loss (often extended for declared disasters). Some homeowners policies require notice of named-storm losses within a specific window. Auto policies generally require prompt notice and cooperation. What if you have already missed the window. File anyway. Carriers may still cover the loss if you can show good cause for the delay. The risk goes up significantly the longer you wait. Why prompt notice matters beyond the policy. Evidence degrades over time. Witnesses forget. Damage gets worse. Repair-receipt trails get lost. The earlier you report, the better the file.