Many employers these days offer life insurance coverage to their employees. Furthermore, many employees take advantage of these offerings because group life insurance coverage provided through an employer tends to be more affordable than an individual policy. On the other hand, in the event of a life insurance claim, things can become a bit complicated when it comes to group life insurance offered through an employer. These claims are governed under ERISA which is very complex. I can count the life insurance lawyers on one hand who know how to properly handle ERISA life insurance denials.
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Understanding Group Life Insurance Coverage
Typically, when life insurance is offered to a worker by an employer, it is the responsibility of the Human Resources department to assist with the application process, to make sure employees are aware of their specific coverage terms, and to communicate any changes in coverage to employees. Furthermore, Human Resources professionals should make sure that all employees receive a copy of their policy terms.
Unfortunately, not all Human Resource professionals take these job responsibilities as seriously as they should. They may overlook mistakes made in an employee's application for group coverage, or they may fail to provide workers with a copy of their coverage, thus leaving their workers and their families in the dark. Simply put, there are many things that can go wrong when it comes to group life insurance policies through an employer, and these problems can complicate the claims process.
Potential Causes of a Life Insurance Claim Denial
There are many reasons as to why an employer can make a mistake in the life insurance process. The employer may have miscommunicated the type of amount of coverage being provided or even the start date of the policy. In some cases, employers may outright fail to submit application forms to their life insurance companies, resulting in employees thinking they're covered when they're actually not. There are many specific situations that an employer can make a mistake which is beyond the scope of this page.
Should You Contact a Life Insurance Attorney?
Have you had a death benefits or other life insurance claim denied as a result of wrongdoing by an employer? If so, then it is imperative that you speak with an experienced life insurance attorney who has at least 15 years of experience, and proven experience and success in dealing with these types of cases. Even if your claim has simply been delayed, retaining a life insurance lawyer can prevent the denial, and with ERISA cases, you have only one appeal! In the case of a denial, your life insurance lawyer will appeal it…and very carefully…
Nobody should have to suffer with a life insurance claims denial as a result of an employer's mistake. Be sure to consult with an experienced life insurance lawyer today to review the details of your case and determine which steps should be taken next.