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The Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) was established in 1910 and is part of the Texas Department of Insurance. SFMO is committed to reducing the loss of life and property through fire prevention, education, and protection. State Fire Marshal Debra Knight recently shared the history, responsibilities, and fire-safety initiatives of SFMO with the Texas Insurance Podcast as part of TDI’s 150th anniversary celebration. What does the State Fire Marshal’s Office do? SFMO has three main responsibilities: fire investigations, inspections of state-owned and state-leased buildings, and licensing the fire protection industry — which includes fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and fire alarm systems. How does the State Fire Marshal’s Office investigate fires? There are 254 counties in Texas and SFMO provides assistance to any of them at the request of local jurisdictions and other state agencies. Requests often stem from fires that caused fatalities or affected buildings of significance in a local community, such as courthouses and churches. Smaller jurisdictions with limited resources are more likely to ask SFMO for help. Larger cities usually have their own fire investigators and handle their own investigations. Does the State Fire Marshal’s Office use ignitable liquid detection dogs? SFMO has five ignitable liquid detection canines trained in accelerant detection. These dogs help SFMO fire investigators and can also help communities in fire investigations at the request of local jurisdictions. SFMO may also provide drone support during investigations. What is the State Fire Marshal’s Office fire and life safety code? SFMO often enforces its adopted fire and life safety code in Texas municipalities that don’t have their own code or local fire marshal. SFMO’s code includes many common-sense requirements such as keeping exit signs visible and illuminated, keeping exits clear of boxes and other obstructions, and making sure exit doors are unlocked during business hours. When a fire starts, you might have only a few minutes to escape, so it’s important that you can find an exit fast. Knowing where exits are located before an emergency happens can make a big difference. 00:00 What does the State Fire Marshal's Office do? 01:14 How does the State Fire Marshal’s Office investigate fires? 02:27 Does the State Fire Marshal’s Office use ignitable liquid detection dogs? 02:54 What is the State Fire Marshal’s Office fire and life safety code? 07:15 How does the State Fire Marshal's Office help prevent fires? 08:29 Are lithium-ion batteries a fire risk?

As the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) celebrates its 150-year anniversary, Insurance Commissioner Amanda Crawford looks forward to the agency’s future while reflecting on the past century and a half. What's TDI’s mission, vision, and core values? TDI’s mission is to protect Texas consumers by fairly and diligently regulating the insurance industry, promoting a stable and competitive market, advancing fire safety, and providing clear information to Texans. Our vision is of a Texas where consumers are protected, communities are resilient, and the insurance market is strong for generations to come. Our TEXAS values — Transparency, Efficiency, eXcellence, Accountability, and Service — guide how we serve Texans. Why was the Texas Department of Insurance created? The agency was first created at a time when Texans needed a trusted safeguard. In the 1870s, many insurance companies weren’t closely regulated or financially stable, putting families at risk when disaster struck. In 1876, the 15th Legislature created the Department of Insurance, Statistics, and History. At that time, most Texans bought insurance policies from companies based in other states and countries. Only four of the 61 companies selling insurance in Texas were Texas-based. Today, TDI regulates 3,447 companies, including 843 Texas-based insurers. How will TDI continue to serve Texans in the future? TDI is making our work to protect consumers more transparent. We recently rolled out three, consumer-friendly web pages that let consumers see the average homeowners insurance premium for every Texas county, view paid homeowners insurance claims by county, and search home and auto insurance rate filings. These webpages provide information that’s historically been hard to find and help consumers better understand what’s driving insurance costs where they live. We’re here to listen and help. Our website is a tremendous resource with consumer-friendly information – www.TDI.Texas.gov. And you can call our Help Line to speak with experts that can answer your insurance questions in English, Spanish and other languages.. That number is 800-252-3439. 00:00 TDI celebrates 150 years of protecting consumers   00:29 What's TDI’s mission, vision, and core values?   02:19 What is insurance commissioner Amanda Crawford's background?   04:00 Why was the Texas Department of Insurance created?   05:33 When did TDI move from an insurance board to a single commissioner of insurance?   06:43 How many insurance companies does TDI regulate?   07:33 How will TDI continue to serve Texans in the future?   08:33 How does TDI help Texas consumers?   11:04 If you have insurance questions visit https://www.tdi.texas.gov or call 800-252-3439

When you visit a doctor or other medical provider, your health plan sends you an explanation of benefits (EOB). This document shows what services were billed, what your health plan covered, and what costs you may need to pay.  How can I tell the difference between an EOB and a medical bill?  An EOB isn’t a bill. The EOB might show the portion of costs you could owe, such as your deductible, copay, or coinsurance, but it doesn’t ask for payment. A bill will always come from your medical provider, not from your health plan.  What if my name is misspelled on my EOB?  Contact your health plan to correct any spelling errors. If your health plan has your name spelled correctly, reach out to your doctor or the provider who submitted the claim so they can update their records. If you get coverage through your employer, you may need to contact your employer’s benefits office.  What does the “date of service” mean?  The “date of service” is the date you received care from the provider who filed the claim.  Will I get a bill from my provider right after the EOB arrives?  Not always. If the EOB shows you owe part of the cost, it can take time before your provider sends a bill. You might not get a bill if you don’t owe anything.  Who can I contact if I have questions about EOBs?  For general questions about EOBs, call the TDI Help Line at 800‑252‑3439.  How to avoid costly mistakes with your health plan How to save money at the doctor 00:00 Medical bill or explanation of benefits? What's the difference? 00:26 What is an explanation of benefits?  00:59 How can I tell the difference between an EOB and a medical bill?  02:03 What if there are errors on your EOB? 02:58 What if the deductible and copay are incorrect on your EOB? 04:41 Will you get a bill from your medical provider right after the EOB arrives?  05:03 Who can you contact if I have questions about your explanation of benefits? 05:58 If you have an insurance question, call 800-252-3439 or visit the TDI website.

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) makes sure insurance companies and agents follow state law. When they don't, the Fraud and Enforcement Division steps in to protect consumers, stop illegal activity, and help Texans get the money owed to them. Here are answers to common questions about how the division holds the insurance industry accountable in a fair and transparent way. How are insurance companies or agents punished if they do something wrong? The penalties depend on the severity of the offense: - For minor offenses: TDI may issue a warning letter, a suspension, or probation. - For serious offenses: TDI can permanently take away a license, issue administrative fines, and force the rule-breaker to pay back the people they harmed. What can cause an agent or company to lose their license? TDI can take away a license for serious misconduct, like an agent stealing client money or taking payments without actually setting up the insurance policy. Before anyone loses a license, a formal hearing is held so both sides can present their case. What kinds of criminal cases are referred to TDI’s Fraud Unit for prosecution? TDI’s Fraud Unit investigates insurance crimes and hands them over to local district attorneys for prosecution. Common examples include: - Agents stealing insurance premiums (the money consumers pay for coverage). - Individuals selling insurance without a license. In Texas, selling insurance illegally is a third-degree felony. How can the public see enforcement actions against a company or agent? Consumers can search for disciplinary actions from the past five years on TDI’s website. For help finding a specific company or legal order, call TDI’s Help Line at 800-252-3439. What’s the role of TDI fraud investigators? How TDI's Help Line helps with insurance questions and complaints TDI embeds prosecutors in DA offices to investigate insurance fraud Forensic accounting and insurance fraud investigations Fraud Files: William "Doc" Gallagher TDI analysts work behind the scenes to stop insurance fraud Insurance fraud investigations recover millions for Texans Report insurance fraud online 00:00 How does TDI’s Enforcement Division hold insurance companies and agents accountable? 00:30 How does TDI enforce the insurance code and protect consumers? 00:56 How does TDI find cases for the Enforcement Division to investigate? 01:26 What kinds of possible code violations does TDI Enforcement Division investigate? 03:36 What is the process of a TDI Enforcement Division investigation? 05:37 How does restitution and revocation work in an insurance code enforcement investigation? 09:03 What happens when a code enforcement investigation uncovers criminal activity? 09:42 Can you look up companies or agents that have been investigated by the TDI Enforcement Division? 10:10 How does the TDI Enforcement Division help Texans? 11:05 If you need to file a complaint or have an insurance code question, call 800-252-3439 or visit tdi.texas.gov

Las tormentas pueden llegar rápidamente, pero un poco de preparación puede ser de gran ayuda. Descubra cómo los texanos pueden proteger sus viviendas, determinar sus necesidades de seguro y obtener ayuda después de un desastre.   Revise su cobertura de seguro   Ya sea por la temporada de huracanes, inundaciones, tornados o granizadas, es importante contar con la cobertura de seguro adecuada. Pregúntese:  ¿Puedo pagar el deducible? ¿Necesitaré un hotel si mi vivienda sufre daños? ¿Tengo suficiente cobertura para mis pertenencias? Revise su póliza dos veces al año para asegurarse de que su cobertura y sus deducibles aún cumplen con sus necesidades de presupuesto. Puede comparar las tarifas de las primas en HelpInsure.com.  ¿Cómo ayuda TDI después de un desastre?  Después de un desastres grave, FEMA y la División del Manejo de Emergencias de Texas (Texas Department of Emergency Management, TDEM, por su nombre y siglas en inglés) pueden abrir Centros de Recuperación ante Desastres (Disaster Recovery Centers, DRC, por su nombre y siglas en inglés) en las comunidades afectadas. Estos centros reúnen a agencias federales y estatales para ayudar a los texanos con la recuperación.  El personal de TDI se encuentra en estos centros de ayuda para guiarle a través del proceso de la reclamación, responder a sus preguntas y ayudarle a presentar una queja si es necesario  Si no puede acudir a un centro en persona, llame a la Línea de Ayuda de TDI al 800-252-3439.   ¿Cómo puedo recuperarme más rápido después de un desastre?  Prepárese para una recuperación rápida después de un desastre teniendo a la mano la información de contacto de su compañía de seguros y su número de póliza.   Familiarícese también con el proceso para presentar una reclamación al seguro de vivienda.  Después de un desastre, tenga cuidado con las estafas de contratistas. Contrate únicamente a contratistas locales con buena reputación, y nunca pague la cantidad total por adelantado. Más información Antes de la tormentaConsejos para la recuperaciónDesastres: cómo prepararse y recuperarseLa Función de TDI en un Desastre00:00 Respuesta ante desastres: cómo ayuda el Departamento de Seguros 00:40 ¿Cómo se prepara TDI antes de que ocurra un desastre en Texas? 01:49 ¿Qué hace el Equipo de Respuesta ante Desastres de TDI? 03:10 ¿Qué es un centro de recuperación de desastres? 05:04 ¿Qué tipo de coberturas del seguro de vivienda son necesarias en caso de desastre? 07:56 ¿Cómo deben de prepararse los texanos ante de un desastre? 10:10 ¿Cómo ayuda TDI a los texanos a recuperarse después de un desastre? 12:21 ¿A qué estafas debe de estar pendiente después de un desastre? 13:50 Si tiene preguntas sobre seguros visite: https://tdi.texas.gov/ o llame al 800-252-3439

Storms can hit fast, but a little preparation goes a long way. Find out how Texans can protect their homes, understand their insurance needs, and get help after a disaster.   Review your insurance coverage   Whether you’re facing hurricane season, floods, tornadoes, or hailstorms, the right insurance coverage matters. Ask yourself:  Can I afford my deductible? Will I need a hotel if my home is damaged? Do I have enough coverage for my personal belongings? Review your policy twice a year to make sure your coverage and deductibles still fit your needs. You can compare premium rates at HelpInsure.com.  How does TDI help after a disaster?  After major disasters, FEMA and the Texas Division of Emergency Management can open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in affected communities. These centers bring together federal and state agencies to help Texans navigate recovery.  TDI staff are on-site at DRCs to guide you through the claims process, answer questions, and help you file an insurance complaint if needed  If you can't visit a center in person, call the TDI Help Line at 800-252-3439.   How can I recover faster after a disaster?  Prepare yourself to recover from a disaster faster by keeping your insurance company’s contact information and your policy number handy. Also become familiar with how to file a homeowners insurance claim.  After disaster strikes, watch out for contractor scams. Only hire reputable local contractors and roofers, and never pay the full amount upfront.  Learn More: Before the stormWhat to do after a stormDisasters: how to prepare and recoverTDI’s Role in a Disaster00:00 Disaster Assistance Response: How TDI helps 00:23 How does TDI prepare before a disaster hits Texas?  01:19 What is TDI’s Disaster Assistance Response Team?  01:38 How should Texans get prepared for disasters?  01:58 What kind of homeowners insurance coverages help when there is a disaster?  02:26 What is a Disaster Recovery Center?  03:05 How does TDI help Texans recover after a disaster?  03:23 What scams should you look out for after a disaster?   04:26 If you have insurance questions visit https://tdi.texas.gov/ or call 800-252-3439

Every second counts during a fire and having a clear exit strategy saves lives —whether you’re at home, a hotel, or a business. Knowing how fast fires can spread and preparing before an emergency strikes are the best ways to protect yourself and your family in an emergency. Why is it important to have an exit strategy? When a fire starts, you don’t have time to figure out what to do. You may have less than two or three minutes to escape. Fires spread fast because many household and business items are made with fast-burning plastics. How do you prepare for a fire when traveling? When you check into a hotel, find the two closest exits or stairwells. Count how many doors are between your room and the nearest exit. If the hallway fills with smoke, you can crawl low along the floor and find your way out by counting the doors. Is it safe to use the stairway during a fire? Yes. Stairways are fire-rated, smoke protected spaces. Once you enter the stairway and close the door behind you, it takes time for fire or smoke to reach that area. Where do I go during a fire if I can’t climb stairs? Many office buildings and high-rises have an “area of refuge” inside the stairwell. It’s a protected space where people with mobility challenges can wait for help. How to keep your dogs, cats, and other pets safe from fire How to protect your family from a home fire Have an exit strategy campaign

If you’re an insurance agent or adjuster with questions about licensing in Texas, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re applying for your first license or preparing for renewal, this guide answers the most common questions about Texas insurance licensing. How long does it take TDI to review my insurance license application? The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) typically reviews license applications within one business day. If your application is complete, accurate, and free of qualification issues, you could receive your license as soon as the next business day. After submitting your application, watch for any follow-up questions from TDI and respond promptly to avoid delay. How often do Texas insurance agents need to renew their license? Your Texas insurance license expires every two years on the last day of your birth month. For first time applicants, the initial license term may be shorter so that future renewals match your birth month. What do agents need to do to keep their Texas insurance license active? To maintain your insurance license, you must renew it every other year before it expires at the end of your birth month. The renewal process calls for completing all required continuing education (CE) hours, submitting your renewal application, and paying the renewal fee. There’s a $25 fee if it’s late. How many CE credits do I need to renew my Texas insurance license? Most Texas insurance licenses require 24 hours of CE every two years, including three hours of ethics courses. At least half of all CE hours must be in a classroom or classroom equivalent setting. CE requirements vary by license, so check the requirements for your specific license type. If you miss your CE deadline: You’ll be fined $50 per late credit hour, up to $500.Your license will not renew until you:Complete all required CE.Pay the CE fine.Submit your renewal application.Pay the late fee, if applicable.If you don’t renew your license within 90 days of the expiration date, your license will become inactive and you’ll have to apply for a new one.Where can I get help with the Texas licensing process? Visit TDI’s Agent/Adjusters page and select the license type. There, you’ll find guidance on: Accessing required forms.Applying for a license. Renewing a license. Changing your address.Updating your name. If you still have questions, call TDI at 512-676-6500 or email [email protected]. Careers in insurance: How to become an insurance agent or adjuster Individual license online renewal or reinstatement guide Continuing education information for agents and adjusters What you need to know about continuing ed Have a question about your agent or adjuster license? 00:00 How to become a licensed insurance agent in Texas 00:35 Who needs an insurance agent license? 01:25 What can you do if you're a licensed insurance agent? 01:50 What are the requirements to become a licensed insurance agent? 02:25 What is the process to get an insurance agent license? 03:40 What types of insurance agent licenses can you get in Texas? 04:16 How fast can you get an insurance agent license in Texas? 04:49 How often do you have to renew your insurance agent license? 05:53 If a licensed insurance agent moves to Texas, how do they update their license? 06:45 How to find insurance agent license on TDI.texas.gov 07:25 For more insurance license questions, call TDI at 512-676-6500 or email [email protected] 07:54 What are licensed insurance agents required to do to maintain a license? 10:16 For more info on insurance agent licenses visit TDI’s Agent/Adjusters page or call 800-252-3439

Find out about lesser-known benefits, learn where to get coverage details, and connect with trusted resources for more help. What are some health plan benefits people don’t know about? Some health plans offer wellness programs, gym membership discounts, smoking cessation programs, and certain diabetes equipment. Will my plan pay for online doctor’s visits? It’s common for health plans to offer coverage for online doctor appointments. This service is often called telemedicine or telehealth. It just means you can get health care in a place other than the doctor’s physical location, like through your computer or phone. Can I get free annual wellness checkups? Many health plans offer free annual screenings for prostate cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and certain cardiovascular screenings if you have a family history of cardiovascular issues or certain artery problems. How do I find out what my health plan offers? Health plans must cover certain mandated benefits described in your coverage documents. Get answers about what your health plan covers by reading your policy and evidence of coverage documents. They explain what’s covered and what isn’t. If you still have questions, contact your health plan’s customer service or the insurance agent who helped you sign up. Who can help me with a surprise medical bill? Explore resources on TDI’s website - https://www.tdi.texas.gov/ - or call our Consumer Help Line at 800-252-3439. A representative can answer your questions and help you file a complaint, if needed. We answer calls from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time, Monday through Friday. 00:00 Do you know everything your health plan offers? 00:40 What services does your health plan have to offer? 01:24 What other services does your health plan offer? 02:23 What free services does your health plan offer? 04:26 What extra services does your health plan offer? 05:31 What kind of vaccinations does your health plan offer? 06:09 How can you find out all the services your health plan offers? 07:29 For more info on health insurance visit our website or call 800-252-3439

Learn what you can do to stay safe when you hit the road this winter with the Texas Department of Public Safety. What do people need to know about Texas roads in the winter? Even though the weather looks clear, when the temperature dips below freezing, bridges and overpasses can form black ice that you can't see. What is a big factor in winter driving accidents? Tires play a big role in how well your vehicle handles ice, snow, and rain. At your next oil change, have your mechanic check the tread depth on your tires and replace them if they’re worn out. Make sure your tires have the right air pressure. What's the most common issue on icy roads? Texas highways have some of the fastest speed limits in the nation at 70 to 80 mph. When it’s freezing and there's a danger of ice, slow down below the speed limit – maybe even 40 to 50 mph – just to be safe. Be aware of what's going on around you. In wintry conditions, how much following distance do you give the vehicle in front of you? Give yourself plenty of following distance. In clear weather, keep at least three to four car lengths between you and the car in front of you. In icy or snowy weather, you might triple that following distance. Any other tips for winter driving? Take your time if you have to go out. Clear any ice off the windshield, hood, and roof of your vehicle before leaving because these can become dangerous when you hit the road. Slow down, wear your seatbelt, and limit distractions inside the car. Tips for winter driving. 00:00 Is your car ready for winter weather? 00:36 What do people need to know about winter driving on Texas roads? 01:09 What is a big factor in winter driving that leads to accidents? 01:55 How much following distance do you give the vehicle in front of you when winter driving? 02:14 Should you drive with snow and ice on your car? 03:04 How do you prepare your car for winter driving? 03:36 How can you get winter driving roadside assistance in Texas? 04:52 How do you prepare your car tires for winter driving? 06:13 How do you plan ahead for winter driving? For more info on auto insurance visit tdi.texas.gov or call 800-252-3439

Get answers to your biggest questions about shopping for a health plan. Where do most people get health insurance? Many people get health coverage through an employer, such as your job, your spouse's job, or a parent’s job (an option until you turn 26). Others buy it through HealthCare.gov, where you might qualify for an income-based tax credit to lower your premium. What should you look for when choosing a health plan? Compare the Summary of Benefits and Coverage for different plan options. This document gives you an apples-to-apples comparison of how much you pay for different types of care and what limits apply. Ask if a plan covers your doctors and medications. How do I know if a plan is affordable? The premium is the monthly cost you pay. It’s usually straightforward with an employer plan. If you're shopping for an individual plan on HealthCare.gov, have an estimate of your annual income ready because your premium tax credit depends on your income. Pay attention to out-of-pocket costs as these can vary widely. Take note of the plan's deductible and the copays for visiting the emergency room, a specialist, and a primary care physician. If there’s a deductible, how much is covered before I meet it? Any plan you buy on HealthCare.gov must cover preventive care before you reach your deductible. Preventive care services include annual checkups and school vaccines for your children. If your kids get sick, some plans will cover primary care for free or a copay or offer free virtual visits and telemedicine before you meet the deductible. If you’re considering a high-deductible plan, know what coverage you’ll get before you meet your deductible. This factor could be the difference between plans that have a similar monthly premium or a similar deductible. When is open enrollment? You can sign up for a new health plan on HealthCare.gov during open enrollment from November 1 to January 15. To get coverage that starts January 1, you must enroll by December 15. For health plans through your job, the enrollment period varies. Ask your company's human resources department for the dates. What red flags should I look for? Limited benefit health plans. These health plans might have a lower monthly premium, but they don’t provide major medical coverage. Limited plans aren’t part of HealthCare.gov and only cover certain services at specific coverage amounts. Pressure to buy now. No one should pressure you to buy a plan without giving you a chance to read the fine print. Examine the Summary of Benefits and Coverages before you buy anything so that you understand all the coverage and exclusions, their provider network, and the medications they cover. Upfront requests for personal information. Never share your phone number, credit card, or Social Security number unless you’re on a trusted site like HealthCare.gov or an official insurance company website. Be suspicious of unsolicited phone and email offers. Questions? Visit HealthCare.gov or call our Help Line at 800-252-3439. Use these tips to shop smart for health coverage. Health care coverage guide. How to apply and enroll. Alternative health plans. Know what kind of health insurance you’re buying.

Lithium-ion battery devices are just about everywhere in our homes, from smartphones to cordless power tools. While the devices are convenient, it’s important to know safety tips to prevent lithium-ion batteries from overheating and starting a fire. What should I look for when buying rechargeable items? Look for a safety certification from a nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or ETL (Intertek). These certifications show the lithium-ion battery inside the product meets minimum U.S. safety standards for electrical and fire safety. When are lithium-ion batteries most at risk of catching fire? Charging is the riskiest time for lithium-ion batteries. To stay safe, always use the charger that came with the device or one that’s approved by the manufacturer. Using an incompatible charger can lead to overheating, which increases the risk of fire. What are the warning signs that a charging battery might be unsafe? Watch for these common signs of battery failure: Unusual heat. A bulging or swollen battery. A strange, sweet, or metallic smell. If you notice any of these, stop using the device right away and unplug it from the charger. Where is the best place to store lithium-ion battery-powered devices? Store devices in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid keeping battery-powered items in cars, garages, or outdoor sheds, especially during very hot or cold weather. What’s the safest way to dispose of lithium-ion batteries? Never put lithium-ion batteries in the regular trash or recycling bin. Damaged or improperly discarded batteries can ignite and cause fires in garbage trucks and landfills. Instead, take them to a certified battery recycling center. Find a location near you at Call2Recycle.org. Can I safely charge an e-bike and scooter indoors? No. The safest place to charge e-bikes and scooters is on a hard surface outdoors out of direct sunlight in a dry place. How do I safely charge devices with lithium-ion batteries? While no method is completely risk-free, you can reduce the fire risk by: Charging on a hard, non-flammable surface. Keeping devices away from flammable materials (such as beds, rugs, and couches). Monitoring the device. Unplugging after charging. How do I know if my device has a lithium-ion battery? Many everyday rechargeable devices use lithium-ion batteries, including: Smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. Laptops. Power tools. E-bikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles (EVs). Electric toothbrushes. Check the product manual or labeling for battery information. Smoke alarms: Where to put them, how often to replace batteriesHow to escape from a house fireSafe charging tips for your home (National Fire Protection Association video)

TDI’s Fraud Unit has a team of investigators that look into reports of insurance fraud to build cases they can send county district attorneys for prosecution and potential punishment.  What kind of training do insurance fraud investigators have?  The investigators are licensed peace officers and most of them previously worked in other law enforcement roles. They learned to gather facts, interview people, and present information. Once they’re at TDI, the investigators take continuing education classes and practice exercises and scenarios.  Do the investigators offer insurance fraud training?  Yes, the Fraud Unit has a Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) certification to teach others. They create 4 to 6-hour classes about spotting insurance fraud and collecting information to build cases.  Who reports insurance fraud?  Anyone can report insurance fraud online or by calling the Help Line at 800-252-3439. Consumers, insurance companies and health plans are common sources of fraud reports.  How does a report turn into a fraud investigation and eventually a court case?  The Fraud Unit looks at a report, sends it to a supervisor, and the supervisor will assign it to an investigator. The investigator looks at the information to decide what else they need to collect. They look through financial records and interview victims and suspects to collect evidence.   Once the investigator has collected enough information, they’ll hand off the case to a supervisor and eventually to a district attorney in the county where the crime took place.  What are the most common types of insurance fraud?  So far in 2025, the Fraud Unit has received 22,000 reports of suspected insurance fraud. Of those, 55% are for auto insurance fraud, 20% for homeowners insurance fraud, and 6% for health insurance fraud. Learn about reporting fraud  Insurance fraud could happen to you  Insurance fraud guide

The Texas Department of Insurance Help Line, 800-252-3439, is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time. Experts are available in English, Spanish, and other languages. Who can call TDI’s Help Line? People call the Help Line with almost any question about insurance in Texas. Experts are ready to answer your questions or they can tell you how to get what you seek. How many calls does the Help Line get? Up to 600 calls come in on an average day and as many as 140,000 calls a year. We also get inquiries by email. What do most people call about? Auto insurance, probably because if you own a truck or car, you’re required under Texas law to be responsible for any liability you have in an accident. Can the Help Line tell me how to file a complaint? Yes—and sometimes we can help you without filing a complaint. We’re here to help. Are there topics the Help Line can’t tackle? We can’t give legal advice. We also can’t help you resolve a dispute with another driver or homeowner. Getting help with an insurance complaintFile an insurance complaintSteps to getting your home or car insurance claim paid

Since 1993, the State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) has called on man's "best friend" to help in its investigations. Canine teams help determine the presence of ignitable liquids, such as gasoline, at fire scenes.  How many dogs help SFMO handlers detect substances that may have been used to start or spread fires?  Five dogs live with their respective handlers, who live in different parts of Texas to be ready to investigate the origin of a fire or explosion at short notice.  What kinds of dogs are in the accelerant detection canine unit?  Four Belgian Malinois and a German Shepherd.  What can the dogs detect?  SFMO’s dogs are trained on 14 different odors associated with causes of a house fire. The dogs also will react to over 60 different common commercially available items.  Do the dogs bark when they sniff out a suspicious chemical?  No. Sometimes they gaze at the source of the smell. Other times, depending on training, they put their nose on a spot and keep it there.  Learn more: Dog burned in fire now helps state investigate fires  Fire Investigations Division Accelerant Detection Canine Unit