How to File a Life Insurance Claim
Life insurance claims are usually paid within 30–60 days of receiving a complete claim. Delays almost always come from missing paperwork.
Step-by-step
- 1. Locate the policy and beneficiary form
Check files, safe deposit boxes, and the insurer's portal. The MIB Group's policy locator service can help.
- 2. Order certified death certificates
Get at least 5 — every claim, bank, and government agency wants an original.
- 3. Contact the insurer
Call the policyholder services number. They will send a claim form and list of documents needed.
- 4. Submit the claim form, death certificate, and policy
Some insurers accept electronic submission; others require originals by mail.
- 5. Choose the payout method
Lump sum, installments, or retained-asset account. Lump sum is usually best — retained-asset accounts pay below-market interest.
Common pitfalls
- Assuming a policy lapsed when it's actually in a grace period.
- Forgetting to check for group life through the deceased's employer.
- Not asking about accidental death riders that double the payout.
FAQ
Generally no for income tax. They may be included in the estate for estate tax purposes if the deceased owned the policy.
Proceeds typically go to the estate and pass through probate — slower and potentially subject to creditor claims.
Insurers can investigate claims in the first two years of a policy. If the application contained material misstatements, the claim can be reduced or denied.