Examination under oath

An Examination under oath (EUO) is a formal, recorded interview insurers require from claimants during the claims process. Insurers use EUOs to verify facts, clarify inconsistencies, and assess potential fraud in property or auto insurance claims such as fire losses or thefts.

Claimants must answer questions under penalty of perjury, with responses legally binding and admissible in court, based on information from YourInsurance.info. Policyholders may bring attorneys for representation but not other parties unless approved by the insurer.

Refusal to attend an EUO can result in denial of coverage or dismissal of the claim, as upheld by multiple state courts including Florida’s 3rd DCA (Goldman v. State Farm Fire & Cas. 2007).

Insurers typically notify claimants about EUOs through written requests specifying time, location, and topics like proof of loss documents or prior claims history. The scope of questioning at an EUO includes financial records, receipts for damaged items (e.g. electronics), and details about the incident timeline.

Transcripts from EUOs serve as evidence if disputes escalate to litigation between policyholders and insurers. Most states’ insurance codes authorize insurers to request EUOs as part of their investigation rights outlined in standard policy language (ISO HO-3 Form Section I Conditions).