Filing a life insurance claim during a time of grief can feel overwhelming, but the process is typically straightforward if you know what to expect. Most claims are paid within 30 to 60 days when proper documentation is submitted.
Being prepared and organized can help expedite the process during a difficult time.
Gather Required Documents
You’ll need a certified copy of the death certificate (most insurers require the original, not a photocopy), the policy number and any policy documents, the claim form provided by the insurance company, and identification for the beneficiary filing the claim.
Order multiple certified copies of the death certificate, as you’ll need them for various purposes.
Contact the Insurance Company
Call the insurer’s claims department — the number is on the policy or the company’s website. They’ll guide you through their specific requirements and send claim forms. Many companies now allow online claim filing for faster processing.
If you can’t locate the policy, the company can search their records using the deceased’s name and Social Security number.
What Happens After Filing
The insurer reviews the claim, verifies the cause of death, and confirms the policy was in force at the time of death. For deaths within the first two years of the policy (the contestability period), the insurer may conduct a more thorough investigation.
Once approved, you can typically choose to receive the benefit as a lump sum, installment payments, or leave it with the insurer to earn interest.