Frequently Asked Questions

We blend multiple independent data sources: live local dealer listings (MarketCheck) and a VIN-specific retail value benchmark (Vehicle Databases). Each source is weighted and combined into a single blended value, which is more accurate and more defensible than relying on any one source alone — the same principle several state insurance regulations require or endorse.

The free check gives you an instant fairness score — fair, borderline, or unfair — based on an estimated market range. The paid report ($49.99) includes the full multi-source blended valuation, a table of comparable vehicles with mileage and condition adjustments, a formatted dispute letter ready to send to your adjuster, and state-specific consumer rights and statutes.

On the Check My Offer page, use the Upload tab and drop in the PDF or image your insurer sent you. We read the document automatically and pull out the vehicle details, claim number, adjuster name, and offer amount — you just verify the extracted fields before running the analysis. Not sure what your document looks like? There's a sample report mockup on that page showing the type of information to look for.

We aim for 5–8 comparable vehicles per report. For rare, low-production, or unusually optioned vehicles, our system automatically widens the search radius and, as a last resort, includes adjacent model years — always clearly disclosed in your report so you know exactly what was used. If we still can't reach 5 comparables, the VIN-specific retail benchmark (Vehicle Databases) doesn't depend on local listings and helps offset a thin local market.

We can't provide legal advice about your specific situation, but every policyholder has a few well-established options if an insurer won't budge:

• Ask for their comps in writing. Many states require insurers to disclose the specific comparable vehicles used in their valuation, including VINs and mileage — this often reveals whether they complied with your state's own rules.
• File a formal complaint with your state's Department of Insurance (DOI). This is free, doesn't require an attorney, and DOIs can investigate unfair claims-handling practices. Many customers find this is what actually gets a stalled claim moving again.
• Invoke the Appraisal Clause in your policy, if one exists. This lets you and the insurer each hire an independent appraiser; if they disagree, a neutral umpire makes the final call.

You can also see your state's specific consumer rights, statutes, and comparable-vehicle radius rules on our State Laws page.

This varies by state and insurer. Most states have general claim-handling deadlines under their Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Act — for example, Texas requires insurers to acknowledge, investigate, and accept or reject a claim within set statutory deadlines. However, few states codify a specific deadline for responding to a follow-up dispute or counteroffer specifically — that part is usually up to the insurer's internal process. If it's been several weeks with no response, that's a reasonable point to consider a DOI complaint.

Yes. If your insurer responds with a counteroffer that's still below market, you can send a follow-up letter referencing your original report. There's no limit on how many times you can present evidence — the strength of your case comes from the documentation, not from how many times you ask.

No. CheckMyTotalLoss provides market research and negotiation-support materials — it is not a licensed appraisal, and CheckMyTotalLoss does not act as your agent, representative, appraiser, or legal counsel. If your dispute requires a licensed appraisal — for example, under the Appraisal Clause of your policy — you'll need to retain a qualified independent appraiser in your state.

No, and we want to be upfront about that. Purchase and use of a report does not guarantee an increase in your settlement value — outcomes depend on your insurer's response, available market data, and your individual claim circumstances. What we do provide is documented, independently-sourced market evidence that gives you a stronger position to negotiate from than accepting the first number you're given.

Payments are processed securely through Stripe — we never see or store your card details. Uploaded documents are used only to extract the vehicle and claim information needed for your report and are not sold or shared with third parties.

Email support@checkmytotalloss.com and we'll help however we can. If your report's comparable data looks incorrect, or comparable data couldn't be obtained for your specific vehicle, reach out — we stand behind the quality of every report we generate.