Life Insurance Claim: How a Beneficiary Claims Benefits
A life insurance claim is the request a beneficiary makes to the insurer for the death benefit after the insured person dies. Florida's consumer guide defines the death benefit as the money the beneficiary receives when the insured dies.
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What insurers commonly ask for
The Alameda County Superior Court (California) lists filing life insurance claims among the situations that call for a certified death certificate, sent with the claim form. Each insurer sets its own requirements, so contact the company's claims department for its list.
Things that can change the payout
Florida's guide notes that an unpaid policy loan, plus interest, is deducted from the death proceeds, and that amounts paid out early under an accelerated death benefit are subtracted from what beneficiaries receive later.
If you cannot find the policy
California's Department of Insurance points to the free NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator. It asks you to conduct a diligent search of the deceased person's records first, such as bank records, former employers and tax records. Companies contact you only if they find a policy and you are the named beneficiary or authorized legal representative.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a certified copy of the death certificate?
Often, but not always. Check the insurer's claim instructions.
What if the claim seems delayed?
Florida's guide suggests calling the company's claims department and asking for an explanation of the delay.
Who do I contact with a complaint?
Start with the insurer, then your state insurance department. Florida's guide names its Department of Financial Services helpline as the consumer contact.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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