TSA and airline damage claims are handled through completely separate processes. Filing with the wrong party wastes time and may cause you to miss the correct deadline.
How to tell who caused the damage
Check inside your bag. If TSA inspected your checked luggage, you’ll find a Notice of Baggage Inspection card inside. TSA also reseals bags with identifiable tape after inspection. [1]
If neither the card nor the tape is present, the damage most likely occurred during airline handling — loading, transfer, or unloading.
If you’re not sure, file claims with both the airline and TSA. Each entity investigates independently. Filing with both protects you regardless of which party caused the damage.
Airline damage claims
Airlines are liable for damage that occurs while your bag is in their custody.
| Factor | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Liability limit | $4,700 per passenger [2] | ~$2,025 (1,519 SDR) [3] |
| Reporting deadline | 6-24 hours (varies by airline) | 7 days (written, Montreal Convention) [3] |
| Where to file | Airline Baggage Service Desk, then online portal | Same |
| Typical resolution | 30-60 days | 30-60 days |
| Burden of proof | Passenger must prove damages | Airline presumed liable for checked bags [3] |
Report damage at the airline’s Baggage Service Desk before you leave the terminal. See our how to report damaged luggage guide for the step-by-step process.
TSA damage claims
TSA damage claims are handled by the TSA Claims Management Branch under the Federal Tort Claims Act. [1]
| Factor | TSA Claim |
|---|---|
| Filing deadline | 2 years from the incident |
| How to file | Online at tsa.gov or by mail |
| Required form | SF-95 (Standard Form 95) |
| Required documentation | Photos, receipts, repair estimates |
| Response time | Up to 6 months |
| If denied | 6 months to file a federal lawsuit |
How to file with TSA
- Online: File at tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support/claims [1]
- By mail: TSA Claims Management Branch, 6595 Springfield Center Drive, Springfield, VA 20598-6160
Include the completed SF-95 form, photographs of the damage, receipts or proof of purchase for damaged items, and a repair estimate from a luggage repair shop.
Side-by-side comparison
| Airline Claim | TSA Claim | |
|---|---|---|
| Indicator | No TSA inspection card | TSA inspection card + tape inside bag |
| Filing deadline | Hours to days | 2 years |
| Liability limit | $4,700 domestic / ~$2,025 international | Fair market value (no statutory cap) |
| Resolution speed | 30-60 days typical | 6+ months |
| Legal framework | 14 CFR 254 / Montreal Convention | Federal Tort Claims Act |
| Contact | Airline Baggage Service Desk | TSA Claims Management Branch |
When to file with both
File with both the airline and TSA when:
- You found a TSA inspection card but the damage could also be from handling
- Your bag was inspected and also transferred between flights
- You’re unsure when or how the damage occurred
There’s no penalty for filing with both. Each party investigates independently and will inform you if the damage falls outside their responsibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if TSA or the airline damaged my bag?
- Look for a Notice of Baggage Inspection card inside your bag and TSA-identifiable tape resealing it. If present, TSA opened and inspected your bag. If not, the damage likely occurred during airline handling.
- What if I am not sure who damaged my bag?
- File claims with both the airline and TSA. Each entity will investigate whether the damage occurred during their handling. Filing with both protects you regardless of which party is responsible.
- How long does a TSA damage claim take?
- TSA processes claims under the Federal Tort Claims Act. Expect 6 months or more. TSA must respond within 6 months, and if they deny your claim, you've got 6 months to file a lawsuit.
Sources
TSA Claims Management Branch -- Filing a claim for screened baggage damage
tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support/claims14 CFR Part 254 -- Domestic Baggage Liability (effective January 22, 2025)
law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/part-254Montreal Convention (MC99) -- Baggage Liability Provisions, Articles 17, 22, 31
legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2002/263/schedule/1/made