What the NF-2 is
The NF-2, formally the 'Application for Motor Vehicle No-Fault Benefits,' is the claimant's written notice to the insurance carrier that they intend to seek no-fault PIP benefits after a covered accident.
It establishes the claim, identifies the injured party, captures basic accident facts, and starts the carrier's processing obligations under 11 NYCRR 65.
The 30-day rule
Under 11 NYCRR 65-1.1, written notice of the claim must reach the insurer within 30 days of the accident. The NF-2 is the standard vehicle for that notice.
Late notice can be excused if the claimant shows the late filing was as soon as reasonably practicable under the circumstances, but the burden is on the claimant — and carriers raise late-notice denials frequently.
Who files it
The injured person, their attorney, or — in many real-world cases — the first treating medical provider. Anyone with personal knowledge of the accident facts can complete and submit the form.
What to include
Claimant identifying information, the policy number (or VIN of the insured vehicle if the policy number is unknown), accident date, location, and a short factual description. Sign and date the form, and retain proof of mailing (Certificate of Mailing or certified mail receipt).
Proof of mailing matters
Carriers routinely contest the date the NF-2 was received. A USPS Certificate of Mailing or certified mail receipt is the cleanest way to establish timely notice at arbitration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the deadline to file an NF-2 in New York?
30 days from the date of the accident under 11 NYCRR 65-1.1. Late notice can be excused if the claimant proves it was filed as soon as reasonably practicable.
Who can file an NF-2?
The injured person, their attorney, or a treating medical provider with knowledge of the accident facts.
Can a medical provider file the NF-2?
Yes. The first treating provider often files the NF-2 on the patient's behalf, especially when the patient is incapacitated or unrepresented.
Need help applying this in a real case?
We prepare per-case arbitration packets for NYC law firms and providers. Send us the file and we'll return a ready-to-file response.
Get in touch