TORONTO, Nov. 10, 2026 /CNW/ -- The General Insurance OmbudService (GIO) received a record 10,048 consumer contacts in 2026, representing a 37 per cent increase over the previous year and underscoring the growing demand for independent dispute resolution services across Canada.
The number of files reaching Informal Conciliation, GIO's formal dispute resolution process for consumers who have received a final position from their insurer, increased by nearly 80 per cent year over year.
"These results reflect the trust Canadians place in GIO when they need help navigating insurance issues," said April Schulze, Chief Executive Officer and Ombudsman of the General Insurance OmbudService. "Every day, our team helps consumers better understand their options, resolve disputes, and move forward with confidence. We are proud to provide a free, impartial, and independent service that Canadians can rely on."
Building on insights gathered through its complaint resolution work, GIO continued to expand its industry trends reporting program, launched in 2025. The reports help insurers, regulators, and industry stakeholders better understand consumer concerns and emerging issues.
Strong collaboration across the insurance sector also remained a priority. This year, the Canadian Council of Insurance Regulators (CCIR) released the updated Insurance OmbudServices Cooperation and Oversight Framework, the result of three years of collaboration between the CCIR, GIO, the OmbudService for Life & Health Insurance, the Insurance Bureau of Canada, and the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association.
"The updated Framework is an important achievement for Canada's insurance dispute resolution system," said Schulze. "It reflects a shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and consumer confidence, and will help strengthen trust in the independent services available to Canadians."
As Canadians face increasingly complex challenges, from severe weather events to rising expectations for timely and transparent service, the role of independent dispute resolution has never been more important. To view the 2025 - 2026 Annual Report, visit www.giocanada.org/annual-report/.
About the General Insurance OmbudService
The General Insurance OmbudService (GIO) is an independent organization that helps consumers, businesses and insurance companies resolve disputes involving home, auto and business insurance. GIO provides free, impartial and independent dispute resolution services to consumers across Canada.
SOURCE General Insurance OmbudService
Media Contact: Taylor Jantzi, [email protected]
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