Examination Under Oath: How To Prepare

An Examination Under Oath is a formal, structured interview conducted by the insurance company’s lawyer. You are sworn in, questioned, and recorded. The insurer uses this information to:

• Verify the details of your claim
• Confirm your credibility
• Identify inconsistencies
• Decide whether the claim will be paid or denied

Think of it as a deeper investigation step. It is not court, but everything you say matters.

Insurers typically request an EUO when:

• Documents or statements conflict
• The loss is high-value
• There are missing details
• Fraud must be ruled out
• They need clarity before payout

The EUO is a standard investigative tool: not a sign that you are accused of wrongdoing. It simply means the insurer wants more certainty.

Yes. Almost every insurance policy includes a cooperation clause. This means you must participate in reasonable investigative steps, including an EUO.

Failing to attend, delaying without good reason, or refusing to answer can lead to:

• Claim denial
• Policy cancellation
• Legal disputes

Most EUOs follow the same structure:

1. You take an oath to tell the truth.
2. The insurer’s lawyer questions you about every detail related to the claim.
3. A court reporter records everything word for word.
4. Your lawyer can be present, but they cannot answer for you.
5. The insurer reviews the transcript before making a final decision.

Preparation is critical. Your claim depends on your clarity, consistency, and accuracy.

Know what is covered, what isn’t, and what the insurer may question.

Bring anything that supports your claim, such as:

• Receipts
• Photos or videos
• Repair estimates
• Police or incident reports
• Communications with the insurer
• Previous statements

Many people contradict themselves accidentally. Make sure your answers match what you already submitted.

EUOs are not places for storytelling. Answer factually and stop. Do not guess or assume.

A lawyer helps you understand the process, protect your rights, and avoid avoidable mistakes.

While every case is different, insurers usually ask about:

• What happened?
• When and where?
• Who was present?
• What did you do afterward?

• What items were damaged?
• What were their values?
• Do you have proof of ownership?

Insurers may ask about your job, income, debts, and financial pressures. 

They may ask how many claims you filed in the past and for what reasons.

Renovations, repairs, or security issues may be discussed.

Yes, and it is strongly advised.

Your lawyer can:

• Prepare you for questioning
• Stop inappropriate or irrelevant questions
• Ensure the insurer follows legal boundaries
• Help you stay calm and focused

They cannot answer for you, but they protect you throughout the process.

You can refuse: but it almost always leads to the insurer denying your claim for lack of cooperation. In most cases, refusal ends the claim entirely.

Most EUOs last between 1–3 hours, depending on the complexity of the claim, documents involved, and the lawyer’s questioning pace.

Once the EUO is complete:

1. A transcript is prepared.
2. The insurer reviews your answers and all documents.
3. The claim is either approved, denied, or requires further investigation.

You will be notified once the evaluation is done.

An Examination Under Oath is a serious but manageable part of insurance investigations. The key is preparation. Our Toronto Examination Under Oath Lawyers can assist you with the process – 416.901.9984 or info@pintoshekib.ca.