Claims Answers / Field rule
How does auto deductible reimbursement work, and when does the clock stop?
Written by James BishopFounder, ClaimStinger
The short answer
“Auto Deductible Reimbursement,” “GAP-Plus,” and “clock-stop” are industry and product terms, not statutory terms. Whether a notice actually tolls or freezes a filing deadline depends entirely on the product certificate and the administrator’s written rules. Do not treat a notice as deadline protection unless those contract materials say it is and the administrator confirms it in writing.
Do this now
Get the certificate
Obtain the actual ADR/GAP-Plus certificate, administrator name, covered-loss definition, deductible limit, exclusions, and filing deadline.
Use the required method
Notify the administrator using the exact method the certificate requires and retain delivery confirmation.
Get written confirmation
Do not assume a stop-clock notice legally extends the deadline unless the administrator confirms that in writing.
Four-state comparison
| State | The rule | Filing window or threshold | Citation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | “Auto Deductible Reimbursement,” “GAP-Plus,” and “clock-stop” are not statutory terms. The certificate and administrator’s written rules control the product’s filing mechanics. | Use only the deadline and notice method stated in the actual certificate. | Product certificate and administrator’s written rules; no uniform statutory term asserted |
| Texas | “Auto Deductible Reimbursement,” “GAP-Plus,” and “clock-stop” are not statutory terms. The certificate and administrator’s written rules control the product’s filing mechanics. | Use only the deadline and notice method stated in the actual certificate. | Product certificate and administrator’s written rules; no uniform statutory term asserted |
| Minnesota | “Auto Deductible Reimbursement,” “GAP-Plus,” and “clock-stop” are not statutory terms. The certificate and administrator’s written rules control the product’s filing mechanics. | Use only the deadline and notice method stated in the actual certificate. | Product certificate and administrator’s written rules; no uniform statutory term asserted |
| Missouri | “Auto Deductible Reimbursement,” “GAP-Plus,” and “clock-stop” are not statutory terms. The certificate and administrator’s written rules control the product’s filing mechanics. | Use only the deadline and notice method stated in the actual certificate. | Product certificate and administrator’s written rules; no uniform statutory term asserted |
This table is a practical starting point, not a substitute for reviewing the current policy, statute, regulation, and claim dates.
The regulation behind this
Product certificate and administrator’s written rules; no uniform statutory term asserted
The named terms describe industry or product language, not a state-mandated benefit. The actual certificate and administrator rules determine eligibility, notice, exclusions, and deadlines.
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