Whether the claim has been completely denied or simply delayed, there are steps you can take to help resolve the situation and potentially get the payout you’re owed. Below are a few key things you can gather to help strengthen your case.
Cause of Death
Understanding the cause of death is critical when challenging a life insurance claim denial or delay. Although no one wants to focus on the cause of death during such a painful time, this information is essential in cases where the insurer questions whether the cause of death falls within the coverage of the policy.
For example, if the insured person died from an accident, such as a car crash, the claim might be denied if the cause of death is linked to an excluded activity. If the insured was racing a boat at high speeds at the time of the accident, the insurer could argue that this activity is excluded from the policy. This is why it's essential to gather a detailed log or report that outlines the exact circumstances surrounding the death, as this can be used to support your case.
Full Policy Information
Another critical document to gather is a complete copy of the life insurance policy. The full policy will contain all the specific details regarding coverage, exclusions, and the terms of the agreement. Having the entire document on hand ensures that nothing is overlooked and helps you identify any terms or clauses that may be the reason for the denial.
In addition, a life insurance attorney will need the full policy to review it thoroughly. An attorney can help you understand the legal language and potentially spot areas where the insurance company might have made an error or used a policy clause unfairly to deny or delay your claim.
All Payment Receipts for Premiums
Collecting proof of premium payments is crucial when contesting a claim denial, especially if the insurance company claims that the policy lapsed due to missed payments. Having all payment receipts—whether in paper or digital format—can provide concrete evidence that the premiums were paid up to the date of death.
Paper receipts are often considered stronger evidence in legal proceedings, so it’s best to keep a physical record of each payment, if possible. This will protect you against any claims by the insurer that the premiums were not paid on time, ensuring that the policy was active when the insured passed away.
Get Legal Help
If your life insurance claim has been delayed or denied, don’t give up. You don’t have to accept the decision at face value. With the right documentation, an experienced life insurance attorney can help you fight for the full amount of the policy and ensure your loved one’s hard-earned benefits are paid out.
Call us for a free consultation. If you're facing a delayed or denied claim, our life insurance lawyers will fight to ensure that you get the payout you're entitled to.