LANSING, MI (WTVB) – The Department of Insurance and Financial Services stands ready to assist Michigan consumers with their insurance and financial services questions. In 2014 DIFS assisted 172,913 consumers across the state. The department outreach efforts played a major role in getting word out that assistance was available to consumers. Since the inception of the DIFS Outreach program, DIFS has been in 43 of Michigan’s 83 counties and has reached over 10,000 Michigan consumers.
“It is DIFS’ duty to sustain an active relationship with Michigan’s consumers. This involves keeping consumers informed and helping them adapt to industry developments,” said DIFS Director Patrick McPharlin.
Consumer complaints were up in 2014 compared to 2013. Health insurance generated the most complaints in 2014 with 1,795 formal complaints, followed by automobile insurance at 836.
Some notable recoveries the DIFS staff assisted consumers with:
- · A Van Buren County consumer recovered a total of $7,733.45 for GAP waivers involving an auto dealership and a GAP Insurance Company.
- · A former Michigander received approximately $10,000 when her insurance carrier made an error processing her life insurance loan.
- · A Wayne County resident was awarded $10,028.00 for previously denied health insurance claims.
- · A Macomb County resident was the victim of life insurance fraud. The insurance company voided his policy and refunded him almost $1,700.
In 2014 the department answered 172,913 phone calls, handled 2,165 written inquiries and assisted with 5,519 formal complaints. The regulated industries can be broken into the following categories:
- · Insurance – 4,790
- · Non-Depository – 541
- · Bank and Trust – 40
- · Credit Union – 148
- · Total Complaints – 5,519
Consumers with complaints or questions about their insurance, bank, credit union, or mortgage services are encouraged to call DIFS at 877-999-6442.
