Losing someone you love is never easy but having life insurance can help take off the financial burden you may be facing without the income of a lost loved one. In the days after loss, even the simplest tasks will likely seem overwhelming. The thought of filing a life insurance claim for a death benefit may feel like a daunting task, but it can be simple.
How to submit a life insurance claim:
1. Call the insurance agent or company
Before any life insurance benefits will be paid out, a claim must be processed with the life insurance company. To start a life insurance claim, contact your agent to find out the company’s claims process, but more than likely you will need to provide a copy of the death certificate and a claim form will need to be filled out.
2. Provide the Death Certificate
Death certificates typically include personal information about the deceased and cause of death and should be signed by a medical examiner or a coroner. You can discuss ordering copies with the funeral home or the person overseeing the deceased person’s remains.
Each state’s process for obtaining a death certificate varies so research your respective state to request copies. According to VitalRecordsOnline.com, you will likely need 10 to 20 copies of a death certificate to cover all the needs you may have when it comes to handling the deceased finances and other affairs.
3. Fill out the necessary paperwork
The life insurance company likely has a claim form that needs to be completed and submitted along with the death certificate. The agent or the company should provide you with the claim form.
How long do you have to file a life insurance claim?
There is not a time limit on filing a life insurance claim.
Who can claim a life insurance policy?
A beneficiary listed on the life insurance policy can file a death claim. A life insurance policy can have multiple beneficiaries and can even list them as primary beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries. Without a listed beneficiary on the life insurance policy, the insurance company will likely pay the policy benefits to the estate of the deceased.
While you may have a lot of questions about filing a life insurance claim, your agent can walk you through the process and provide any assistance you may need. Call your local Alfa® agent for a free life insurance quote today!