File a Claim Check Claim Status
Filing a Claim
You may file a claim if you are injured or your property is lost or damaged during the screening process.
Before clicking the 'File a Claim' button above, please review the list of airports that use private companies in the 'External Claims' section at the bottom of this page.
Once Submitted
You will receive an acknowledgement letter with instructions and a control number four to six weeks after you submit your claim form. Please save your control number; you will need it when communicating with TSA and to check your status.
The Federal Tort Claims Act governs the way your claim is processed and establishes your rights in regard to your claim. If your claim is denied or has not been resolved within six months of the date it was properly presented to TSA, you may file suit in an appropriate U.S. District Court.
Processing
Please allow up to six months to fully investigate your claim. Claims that require law enforcement investigation may take longer.
All claims are investigated thoroughly and the final decision to approve a claim rests with TSA. If your claim is approved, you will receive a letter and form to complete regarding settlement agreement and/or payment methods.
TSA takes the responsibility to fairly adjudicate claims seriously. Every effort is made to resolve a claim when property is proven to be damaged or lost during TSA's security screening process. In many cases, claims are denied when an investigation determines that TSA officers did not open a bag for a physical inspection. Learn about TSA recognized locks and how they can reduce the likelihood of damage to a lock or bag if a physical inspection is required.
Lost and Found
Contact lost and found to locate items left at the security checkpoint.
Tips for Filing a Claim
- Provide as much detail as possible including receipts, appraisals and flight information to avoid delays.
- Contact your airline for lost or missing baggage.
Contact TSA for additional information about filing a claim.