How Long Does It Take to Get a Life Insurance Payout?
In a perfect world, life insurance claims would be processed and paid within 7 to 14 business days. That timeline assumes the claim is straightforward, the paperwork is complete, and there are no disputes. But delays can arise for many reasons, and knowing how to recognize a problem early is key. If the insurer drags its feet, keeps requesting more documents, or becomes unresponsive after your initial filing, it may be preparing to deny the claim. Beneficiaries should act quickly to protect their rights—especially if the delay stretches past 30 days.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Life Insurance Claim
Step 1: Find the Life Insurance Policy
Before you can start a claim, you’ll need to locate the policy. It may be stored in a file cabinet, a home safe, or with the deceased’s attorney. The key details to locate include:
The insurance company’s name and contact information
The policy number
The insured’s name and date of birth
Coverage terms and beneficiaries
If the original policy can’t be found, other helpful records include premium payment receipts, bank statements, or prior correspondence from the insurer. In some cases, funeral homes or estate attorneys may have copies or know where to look.
Step 2: Reach Out to the Insurance Company or Agent
Once you have the policy in hand—or at least key details—you’ll need to contact the insurer. This can usually be done in one of two ways:
Call the agent listed on the policy. They may walk you through the claim and provide forms.
Contact the insurer directly by phone or online, using the policy number and the insured’s name to start the process.
For group life insurance policies, such as those provided by an employer, contact the deceased’s human resources department or benefits coordinator to initiate the claim. Employer-sponsored policies often have different rules and forms.
Step 3: Gather and Prepare the Required Documents
Insurance companies typically require several specific items before processing a claim. Be sure to have the following:
A certified copy of the death certificate
A completed claim form (often called a “Statement of Claim” or “Request for Benefits”)
Proof of your identity, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID
Proof of your relationship to the insured, if applicable
To obtain the death certificate, contact the funeral home or your state’s vital records office. Request multiple certified copies in case the insurer asks for more than one.
Step 4: Submit the Claim and Keep Records
Once you’ve gathered everything, submit the claim via the insurer’s preferred method—online, through an agent, or by mail. Keep copies of everything, including the claim form, death certificate, and correspondence. It’s also wise to request written confirmation that your claim was received.
Step 5: Monitor the Process and Be Proactive
The insurer may follow up with questions or additional requests. Stay on top of deadlines and ask for updates if you haven’t heard back within 10 business days. If more than two weeks pass without acknowledgment or if new document requests seem unnecessary or repetitive, the insurer may be attempting to stall or build a case to deny the claim.
Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Delayed
Not all delays are malicious, but some are. Frequent causes of claim delays include:
Incomplete or inaccurate claim forms
Missing documentation, including death certificates or medical records
Beneficiary disputes or outdated beneficiary designations
Claims filed during the policy’s contestability period (usually the first two years)
Allegations of material misrepresentation or fraud on the application
Suspicion of foul play or a pending investigation into the cause of death
If any of these apply to your situation, especially during the contestability window, it’s crucial to proceed carefully—and consider consulting a life insurance attorney.
What If You Don’t Know Which Company Issued the Policy?
If you believe you’re a beneficiary but can’t find the policy or identify the insurer, try the following:
Search through the deceased’s bank statements or credit card records for premium payments
Contact former employers to inquire about group life insurance policies
Check tax records for 1099 forms indicating life insurance dividends or withdrawals
Inspect safe deposit boxes, filing cabinets, or home safes
Use the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Life Insurance Policy Locator, a free tool that helps search for lost or forgotten policies
Persistence is often required—many valid claims go unpaid simply because the policy was never located.
When to Get Help from a Life Insurance Lawyer
While many insurers are responsive and professional, others use delay tactics, vague language, or technical denials to avoid paying legitimate claims. It’s time to consult an attorney if:
The insurer hasn’t acknowledged your claim within 14 days
You’ve been asked to resubmit the same documents multiple times
You receive a confusing or generic denial letter
The insurer raises suspicious objections during the contestability period
A claim is denied for reasons you don’t understand
Life insurance attorneys specialize in uncovering the true motives behind a delay or denial. They can apply legal pressure, uncover insurer bad faith, and recover the full benefit amount you’re entitled to. The earlier you get legal help, the better your chances of avoiding a protracted fight.
Don’t Let an Insurer Take Advantage of You
Insurers often rely on the emotional vulnerability of grieving families. They know that many people won’t fight a denied claim or follow up on an unresolved delay. But you don’t have to accept their decision at face value. If your life insurance claim is being ignored, delayed, or denied, seek experienced legal help. Many attorneys offer free consultations and only get paid if you win your case.
FAQ: Life Insurance Claim Process
How long does it take to get a life insurance payout?
Most claims are paid within 7 to 14 business days, but delays are common if the insurer requires additional documents or investigates the claim.
What documents do I need to file a life insurance claim?
You’ll typically need a certified death certificate, a completed claim form, proof of identity, and proof of your relationship to the deceased.
What happens if I can’t find the life insurance policy?
You can search financial records, employer HR departments, or use the NAIC Policy Locator tool to help identify the insurance company and file a claim.
What is the contestability period in life insurance?
This is usually the first two years after the policy starts. During this time, the insurer can investigate and potentially deny claims for misrepresentations on the application.
Can a life insurance company deny a claim for any reason?
No. Insurers must have valid legal grounds to deny a claim. Denials must be based on specific policy exclusions, misrepresentations, or fraud—not vague or unsupported reasons.
How do I appeal a denied life insurance claim?
First, request a written explanation. Then gather any supporting documentation to refute the denial. If needed, hire a life insurance attorney to assist with an appeal or file a lawsuit.
Is legal help necessary for a life insurance claim?
Not always—but if there are delays, disputes, or denials, an attorney can ensure your rights are protected and help you recover what you’re owed.
Can an insurer delay my claim indefinitely?
No. Most states have laws requiring insurers to act within a reasonable timeframe—usually 30 to 60 days. Excessive delays may qualify as bad faith.
What if the beneficiary information is disputed or outdated?
Disputes over beneficiary status often lead to interpleader lawsuits, where the court decides who receives the benefits. Legal representation is highly recommended in these cases.
Do group life insurance policies follow different rules?
Yes. Group policies, especially those under ERISA or FEGLI, have distinct rules for filing and appealing claims. These often require specialized legal guidance.