Total-Loss Valuation Dispute Letter (Free PDF Template)
Use this to ask your insurer, in writing, to review a total-loss valuation you think is too low. Keep it factual and attach your evidence. Edit any sentence that doesn't fit your situation.
Fillable on screen or printable · no email or sign-up · last reviewed 2026-09-29 by David Bennett
When to use it
- Your car was declared a total loss and the actual cash value (ACV) offer seems low.
- The valuation report has wrong facts — trim, options, mileage or condition.
- You found comparable vehicles listed or sold for more than the insurer's figure.
What the form asks for
- Your name · Date
- Your address
- Insurance company · Adjuster name
- Claim number · Policy number · Date of loss
- Vehicle (year, make, model, trim, VIN, mileage)
- Your offered ACV ($) · ACV I believe is supported ($)
- Facts in the report that don't match my vehicle (trim, options, mileage, condition)
- Comparable vehicles I found (year/make/model, mileage, price, where listed, date)
- Other items to review (taxes, title and registration fees, prior repairs, aftermarket parts)
- Signature · Phone / email
- ☐ Copy of the insurer's valuation report
- ☐ Comparable vehicle listings (with dates and URLs)
- ☐ Maintenance and repair receipts / recent upgrades
- ☐ Photos of the vehicle before the loss
How to fill it in
- Get the full valuation report from your insurer first. You're entitled to see how they reached the number.
- Run your numbers through the Total-Loss Offer Audit calculator to spot errors and gaps.
- Fill in the letter: your offered ACV, the ACV you believe is supported, the facts that don't match, and your comparables.
- Keep the tone factual. Ask for a written response and the basis for their decision.
- Attach your evidence (use the checklist at the bottom) and keep a copy of everything you send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate a total-loss settlement offer?
Yes. A total-loss offer is the insurer's estimate of your vehicle's actual cash value, and you can ask them to review it with evidence — errors in the report, better comparable vehicles, and receipts for recent work or upgrades.
What if the insurer won't change the offer?
Many policies include an appraisal clause that lets each side hire an appraiser, with an umpire resolving differences. You can also file a complaint with your state insurance department. See our guide on when to consider an independent appraisal or attorney.
Should I cash the settlement check while disputing?
Read what the check and any release say before depositing it. Some settlement documents state that accepting payment closes the claim. If you're unsure, ask the insurer in writing whether cashing it waives your dispute.