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7 Common Mistakes DBA Attorneys Make in Carrier Identification | Claim Trove

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7 Common Mistakes DBA Attorneys Make in Carrier Identification

ClaimTrove Research•April 27, 2026•11 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common carrier identification mistake?

Confusing a TPA with the actual carrier. TPAs like Gallagher Bassett and ESIS handle claims but are not the insurer of record.

How often do DBA carriers change?

Every 3-5 years on average for high-volume employers.

What are agency mandatory carrier contracts?

Time-bounded mandates where specific agencies required all contractors to use a designated DBA carrier.

Why do employer aliases cause failures?

Companies operate under multiple names due to mergers and subsidiaries. Searching one version misses records filed under variations.

Can I use a prime's carrier for a sub's claim?

Not automatically. Subs must carry their own DBA coverage under 33 U.S.C. Section 904.

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How do carrier mergers affect identification?

Different entity names in older/newer records may be the same corporate family post-merger.

How many data sources should I check?

At minimum 3-4 independent sources covering different time periods and data types.

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