3 Zurich Life Insurance Claim Denials Successfully Overturned
We’re proud to announce the successful recovery of benefits in three separate Zurich life insurance claim denial cases. At LifeInsuranceAttorney.com, we fight denied life insurance claims—and win. Whether an insurer claims misrepresentation, non-disclosure, or cites ambiguous contestability clauses, our team steps in to protect the rights of beneficiaries. These three recent victories serve as a reminder of just how frequently valid claims are denied—and how critical it is to retain skilled legal counsel to fight back.
Denial #1: Pre-Existing Heart Condition Allegation
Hank was a responsible husband and father who never missed a premium payment. He underwent a medical examination as part of the life insurance underwriting process and was approved for a substantial policy to protect his family. When he passed away, his widow Susan filed a claim expecting the process to be straightforward. Instead, she was met with a denial letter citing an exclusion clause. Zurich claimed that Hank had failed to disclose a pre-existing heart condition on his application. Despite the medical exam conducted at the insurer’s request, they alleged the omission constituted material misrepresentation.
Devastated, Susan retained our firm. We launched a detailed investigation, reviewed the policy, Hank’s medical records, and the application process. We argued that Zurich had full access to Hank’s health data through the underwriting exam and that the alleged condition was not material to the cause of death. The insurer relented—and we recovered the entire policy payout for Susan.
Denial #2: Misrepresentation of Minor Health Condition
Maria, a single mother, had secured a life insurance policy years prior to her death with the intent of safeguarding her children’s future. Upon her passing, her son Miguel filed a claim as the listed beneficiary. Zurich denied the claim, alleging that Maria had failed to disclose a minor health condition during the initial application. The insurer claimed this omission was a material misrepresentation and declared the policy void.
Miguel was blindsided and unsure how to proceed. He contacted our life insurance lawyers, and we quickly took over. Our review showed that the condition in question was not only minor but unrelated to her cause of death. More importantly, it was not asked about in detail on the application. We provided Zurich with a legal rebuttal supported by underwriting standards and applicable case law. They reversed their decision, and Miguel received the full benefit.
Denial #3: Contestability Clause and Ambiguous Language
Gabe had spent years building financial security for his family, including a robust life insurance policy. When he died suddenly in a tragic accident, his wife Lena expected the payout to help support their children. Instead, Zurich denied the claim, citing the contestability clause. The company argued that something in Gabe’s application raised red flags and triggered the right to void the policy. The problem? The contract contained vague language, and Zurich leaned on ambiguous underwriting standards to justify their denial.
Lena came to us determined to fight. Our attorneys dissected the policy and pointed out that Zurich’s reasoning lacked clarity and violated the principles of good faith underwriting. We challenged their interpretation of the contract and forced them into settlement discussions. The end result? Zurich paid the entire policy, bringing closure and financial relief to Gabe’s family.
Why Life Insurance Claims Get Denied—and Why You Shouldn’t Give Up
All three of these Zurich denials fall into common categories:
Alleged misrepresentation or non-disclosure
Disputed medical conditions
Ambiguous policy language
Vague contestability clauses
Life insurance companies are quick to invoke these reasons, particularly when claims are filed shortly after policy issuance. But beneficiaries have rights—and our firm is known for uncovering flawed reasoning and holding insurers accountable.
We don’t just handle Zurich claims. We also fight denied claims from Nationwide, Liberty Mutual, American Equity, Globe Life, Unum, and all other insurers. Our legal team also resolves beneficiary disputes, interpleader lawsuits, and delayed life insurance claims that stall for months without payment.
FAQ About Denied Zurich Life Insurance Claims
Why does Zurich deny valid life insurance claims?
Zurich often denies claims based on allegations of misrepresentation, exclusions in the policy, or issues with the contestability clause. These denials are not always legitimate, and many are overturned with legal intervention.
What is a contestability clause?
It’s a provision that allows the insurer to investigate and potentially deny claims if the insured dies within the first two years of the policy due to misrepresentation or fraud. However, these clauses are often abused to delay or avoid payment.
What qualifies as material misrepresentation?
Any omission or false statement that would have changed the insurer’s decision to issue the policy or alter the premium. But insurers often overstate the importance of minor details to deny claims.
Can an insurer deny a claim after a medical exam?
Yes, but it’s harder for them to claim ignorance of health conditions that were known or discoverable during underwriting. We often use this to challenge denials where an exam was part of the approval process.
What if the death had nothing to do with the alleged condition?
That’s critical. If the undisclosed condition didn’t contribute to the death, we argue that it’s immaterial and the claim should be paid.
Is vague policy language a valid reason to deny a claim?
No. Ambiguous terms must be interpreted in favor of the policyholder under most state laws. We regularly challenge and win claims based on unclear contract provisions.
Can I appeal a denied Zurich claim?
Yes. Most denials are eligible for administrative appeal or legal action. Our law firm handles both and prepares full documentation to support the reversal of the denial.
Do you handle Zurich interpleader lawsuits?
Absolutely. If Zurich files an interpleader due to competing beneficiary claims, we represent the rightful party and recover the benefits they deserve.
What if Zurich claims the policy lapsed?
We review payment history, grace periods, and lapse notices. If there’s any evidence the policy was active at the time of death, we fight to have it enforced.
How long do claim appeals take?
Each case varies, but we work quickly to submit appeals and push for fast resolutions. In some cases, we reach a settlement or payout within weeks.