Life Insurance Lawyer Michigan

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers Michigan: The Lassen Law Firm Dealing with life insurance claims in Michigan can be challenging, especially when faced with denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we proudly assist individuals and families across the Great Lakes State in recovering the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren MI, Ann Arbor, Lansing, or any other community in Michigan, we bring trusted legal expertise and personalized support to every case.

With a nationwide presence, our experienced life insurance attorneys have recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. The Lassen Law Firm combines dedication, legal expertise, and relentless advocacy to ensure justice for every client we serve. Call now for a free consultation to see if we can help you recover your life insurance benefits. No obligation.

Unlike other firms, The Lassen Law Firm exclusively handles denied life insurance claims. With 24 years of experience in this niche, we are recognized as top experts in the field. Our lawyers have earned prestigious awards, including membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and a 10.0 rating on AVVO. No other firm offers the same level of dedication and expertise in denied life insurance cases.

Michigan denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim was denied in Michigan?
If your life insurance claim was denied in Michigan, don’t go it alone. A top Michigan life insurance lawyer can investigate the denial and take action to recover the benefit.
How should I respond to a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in Michigan?
If you're served with an interpleader in Michigan, the insurance company is asking a court to decide who gets the benefit. Legal representation from a Michigan life insurance attorney is essential to protect your rights.
What are my options in a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Michigan?
Beneficiary disputes in Michigan can arise between spouses, children, or ex-partners. Our Michigan life insurance law firm is experienced in resolving these disputes through negotiation or court action.
Why are accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) claims often denied in Michigan?
Michigan AD&D denials often result from insurers claiming the death wasn’t accidental or involved alcohol. We examine the cause of death and fight to recover benefits wrongfully denied.
Can policy lapse be used as a reason to deny a life insurance claim in Michigan?
Yes, but only if the insurer followed Michigan’s legal requirements for lapse notices. We challenge denials when proper procedures weren’t followed.
Is a misrepresentation on the life insurance application a valid reason to deny a Michigan claim?
It can be—but only if the misrepresentation was both material and made intentionally. Our Michigan attorneys challenge denials that lack this standard.
Can a Michigan life insurance claim be denied due to alcohol use?
Some policies include alcohol exclusions. In Michigan, we frequently contest these denials, especially when intoxication was not the actual cause of death.
What should I do about a denied ERISA life insurance claim in Michigan?
You only get one chance to appeal an ERISA claim. Our Michigan ERISA life insurance attorneys prepare detailed, timely appeals to preserve your rights and seek recovery.
What does the contestability period mean in a Michigan life insurance policy?
In Michigan, the contestability period usually lasts two years. During this time, insurers can deny claims based on application misstatements, but we often reverse these denials.
What should I do if my denial letter cites Michigan state law?
Denial letters often misquote or misapply Michigan insurance laws. A Michigan life insurance lawyer can review the decision and identify if there’s legal ground for challenge.
Which life insurance companies in Michigan frequently deny claims?
Jackson National Life in Lansing and Northwestern Mutual are among Michigan insurers known for denied claims. We take legal action against any insurer that withholds valid benefits.
Does Michigan revoke ex-spouse beneficiary designations after divorce?
Yes, Michigan law generally removes an ex-spouse as a beneficiary unless the designation was reaffirmed post-divorce. We help resolve these disputes under current Michigan statutes.
Is Michigan a community property state, and how does that affect claims?
No, Michigan is not a community property state. However, if premiums were paid with marital funds, a spouse may have a legal interest in the life insurance proceeds.
Can a will override the named beneficiary on a Michigan life insurance policy?
No. In Michigan, the person listed on the policy takes precedence over any will unless there’s evidence of fraud, coercion, or legal error.
How much does it cost to hire a Michigan life insurance lawyer?
Our Michigan life insurance attorneys work on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case and recover the benefit.
Can a Michigan life insurance claim be denied if the death occurred overseas?
Yes, if the policy includes a foreign death exclusion. But many of these denials are successfully challenged in Michigan courts.
What if a beneficiary change was made shortly before death in Michigan?
If the change appears suspicious or was made under pressure, our Michigan attorneys investigate and may contest the designation based on undue influence or incapacity.
What should I do if my Michigan life insurance claim is delayed?
Delays may violate Michigan’s insurance laws or indicate bad faith. We pressure insurers to act and pursue damages if the delay is unjustified.
Can a Michigan insurer deny an AD&D claim by calling the death natural?
Yes, but we challenge these denials if evidence shows the death resulted from an accidental event. Our team pushes for the full AD&D benefit.
What if the life insurance agent in Michigan filled out the application incorrectly?
Agent mistakes can lead to wrongful denials. We help Michigan beneficiaries contest denials based on agent errors and get the claim paid.
What is bad faith in a Michigan life insurance claim?
Bad faith in Michigan includes delays, failure to investigate, or misrepresenting policy terms. We pursue claims for extra damages when insurers act in bad faith.
Can denials during the contestability period be reversed in Michigan?
Yes. If the alleged misstatement had no impact on underwriting or was unrelated to the cause of death, we can often reverse the denial in Michigan.
Are ERISA-governed life insurance policies harder to appeal in Michigan?
Yes, they’re governed by strict federal rules. Our Michigan ERISA attorneys are experienced in navigating these complex appeals and lawsuits.
What if the Michigan life insurance policy doesn’t list a beneficiary?
In Michigan, if there is no named beneficiary, the policy typically pays the insured’s estate. We help guide families through probate to recover the funds.
Can I dispute a questionable beneficiary designation in Michigan?
Yes. We challenge suspicious changes in beneficiary designations in Michigan when there’s evidence of fraud, coercion, or mental incapacity.
Does Michigan law require insurers to send notice before canceling a life insurance policy?
Yes, and if proper notice wasn’t sent, the policy may still be in effect. We fight wrongful cancellations across Michigan.
What if my employer in Michigan failed to enroll me in group life insurance?
Employer error is a common reason for denial. We help Michigan workers and families pursue coverage when HR mistakes lead to a lapse or denial.
Can multiple people claim the same Michigan life insurance policy?
Yes, and the insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit in Michigan court. We represent claimants in these cases to fight for their rightful share.
Can I file a claim if the insured was declared legally dead in Michigan?
Yes. After a court declares the individual legally deceased, we help Michigan families navigate the claim process and recover the benefit.
What is the deadline to appeal a denied life insurance claim in Michigan?
For ERISA policies, the deadline is usually 180 days. Other types of claims in Michigan may vary. We ensure all appeals are filed on time.
Are verbal agreements enforceable in Michigan life insurance claims?
No. Michigan law requires written beneficiary designations. However, we may challenge the designation if fraud or undue influence occurred.
Are life insurance benefits shielded from creditors in Michigan?
Yes, when a named beneficiary is present. If the policy pays into the estate, the funds may be subject to creditor claims under Michigan probate law.
Can vague or confusing policy language be used to deny a claim in Michigan?
No. Ambiguities in life insurance policies must be interpreted in favor of the policyholder or beneficiary under Michigan law.
Can a canceled life insurance policy still result in payment in Michigan?
Yes. If the insurer failed to follow proper cancellation procedures under Michigan law, the policy may still be enforceable.
What if a Michigan life insurance policy lapsed for non-payment?
We investigate whether the insurer gave proper notice or if payment options like automatic loans were available. Many lapse-related denials in Michigan are overturned.
Can a minor receive life insurance proceeds in Michigan?
Yes. In Michigan, if a minor is named as a beneficiary, the funds may require a court-appointed guardian or be held in trust. We help set up proper arrangements.
Can fraud be used to deny a Michigan life insurance claim?
Only if the insurer can prove the fraud was material and intentional. We fight denials in Michigan that rely on speculation or weak evidence.
Can a Michigan life insurance case be resolved without court?
Yes, many life insurance disputes in Michigan are resolved through negotiation or mediation. But we’re ready to litigate when needed.
What if a Michigan beneficiary change wasn’t properly recorded?
If the change wasn’t completed by the insurer, the original beneficiary may still be entitled to the proceeds. We help prove the rightful party under Michigan law.
Is an older life insurance policy still valid in Michigan?
Yes. If the policy was in effect when the insured passed away, it’s enforceable in Michigan, even if it was issued decades ago.
How do I prove I’m the correct beneficiary of a Michigan life insurance policy?
We collect policy documents, correspondence, and legal records to build your claim. Our Michigan life insurance attorneys handle every step.

2025 Michigan Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

Globe Life coronavirus exclusion $102,200.00
Mass shooting death denied life claim $115,000.00
Progressive life COVID-19 denial $204,000.00
SGLI claim beneficiary dispute $408,750.00
AD&D claim denied prescriptions $560,000.00
Unum felony exclusion shooting $105,000.00
GPM Life sickness exclusion paid $40,000.00
CUNA Mutual Life delay benefits $25,000.00
Occidental Life alcohol exclusion $68,000.00
Shooting death felony exclusion won $122,000.00
AFBA life very long delay paid finally $50,000.00
TruStage material misrepresentation $90,000.00
Confederation Life intoxication exclusion $118,000.00
Mid Continental chronic illness exclusion $43,000.00

Mass Mutual interpleader lawsuit settled $314,000.00
Coronavirus denial because not known $021,500.00
Allstate alcohol exclusion issue resolved $103,820.00
Denial of SGLI claim due to beneficiaries $404,200.00
Prudential material misrepresentation health $536,000.00
Colonial autoerotic asphyxiation death claim $318,000.00
Michigan denied life insurance claim $1,523,000.00
COVID-19 reason for denying life insurance $259,400.00
Denial FEGLI claim due to exclusions $431,000.00
American General spouse against sister $758,400.00
AIG issue regarding policy lapse $101,900.00
Lincoln Heritage three policy exclusions $227,000.00
Veterans Life denial of benefits wife won $529,900.00
MetLife accidental death & dismemberment $406,300.00
AD&D claim denied due to exclusions we won $833,900.00
American Amicable exclusion for suicide $118,000.00
Prudential dementia not disclosed on application $251,000.00
Sed Mutual Life denial of life benefits we resolved $480,000.00
Denied life insurance claim Michigan $914,500.00
Michigan life insurance and divorce case $379,000.00
Monarch Life denial of claim we won for client $775,000.00
General prescription drug interaction $208,000.00
Western Reserve sickness exclusion $105,100.00

In Michigan, the importance of life insurance cannot be overstated, as it provides much-needed financial support for loved ones in the event of an untimely death. However, some policyholders and their beneficiaries face unexpected hurdles when trying to collect life insurance benefits. While most people are familiar with common reasons for claim denials, such as missed premium payments or suicide exclusions, there are more obscure reasons that can lead to the rejection of claims. Life insurance companies such as Transamerica, MetLife, and AIG may decline claims based on clauses that beneficiaries may not be fully aware of when the policy was purchased. Some of these lesser-known reasons for denial are particularly relevant to Michigan residents, and understanding these nuances can help prevent unnecessary delays or confusion during an already difficult time.

One of the lesser-discussed causes for denial is the "misstatement of age" clause. When a policyholder applies for life insurance, they are asked to provide their date of birth, which directly affects their premiums. If the insurance company later discovers that the insured misstated their age—whether intentionally or by accident—it can result in a claim denial or reduced payout. Companies like Nationwide, Lincoln Heritage, and Reliastar have been known to invoke this clause when discrepancies between the stated age and the actual age of the insured are discovered. If the insurer finds that the insured was older than initially stated, they may adjust the payout according to what the premiums would have been had the correct age been disclosed. In some extreme cases, the insurer may even deny the claim altogether, arguing that the misstatement invalidates the entire policy.

Another potential reason for denial, which many Michigan residents may not be aware of, is the “substance use” exclusion. Although some life insurance policies—especially those issued by companies like Securian, AIG, and Foresters—cover accidental deaths, they may contain a clause that excludes coverage for deaths caused by the use of illegal drugs or the misuse of prescription medication. If a policyholder dies in an accident while under the influence, the insurer may decline to pay out the death benefit, even if the death is unrelated to the substance use itself. This becomes especially relevant in situations where the insured’s death seems like a standard accident but turns out to be influenced by an undisclosed substance use issue. If the policyholder had been using recreational drugs or alcohol, the insurer might argue that the cause of death should be excluded under the terms of the policy.

A particularly distressing reason for denial occurs when a policyholder's death results from an activity that was not disclosed during the underwriting process. Many life insurance policies, particularly from companies like Prudential, MetLife, and Lincoln National, ask applicants to disclose any dangerous activities, such as skydiving, rock climbing, or other high-risk hobbies. If the policyholder fails to disclose that they regularly engage in these activities, and they pass away as a result of one of them, the insurer could deny the claim. In many cases, beneficiaries may not know about the insured’s participation in these activities or may assume they are covered under the policy. However, if the insurer finds that the death occurred due to an undisclosed high-risk activity, they may use that as grounds for rejection.

In addition to undisclosed risky activities, life insurance companies like American General and Symetra may deny claims for causes linked to travel to certain high-risk countries. Many life insurance policies include exclusions for deaths that occur while traveling to regions with political instability, civil unrest, or ongoing war. These exclusions are often buried in the fine print of the contract, and policyholders may not realize that their death could be excluded from coverage if it occurs in one of these high-risk areas. For example, if a policyholder passes away while visiting a country with ongoing political turmoil, the insurer may argue that the policy excludes coverage for deaths resulting from these circumstances. Even though the insured had no intention of traveling to a dangerous region, the company may argue that their decision to travel made the death ineligible for coverage.

Another issue that is often overlooked involves the insurance company's stance on "non-participating beneficiaries." This clause refers to beneficiaries who may be involved in criminal activities, or in some cases, who have been previously estranged from the policyholder. If the insurer has concerns about the relationship between the insured and the named beneficiary, or if they have reason to believe that the beneficiary was involved in fraud or undue influence when the policyholder named them, they may decline to pay out the claim. Life insurance companies such as Prudential, Transamerica, and Banner Life have been known to scrutinize the background of beneficiaries, especially when there is any suspicion of wrongdoing. In some cases, insurers will request that a court decide who the rightful beneficiary is, and these disputes can lead to costly and lengthy legal battles, further complicating the process.

Beneficiary disputes are particularly tricky when multiple parties come forward to claim the death benefit. Michigan’s courts frequently deal with cases where family members or other individuals claim that they should be the rightful beneficiary of the policy. This is especially common when the deceased policyholder failed to update their beneficiary designation after major life events such as divorce, remarriage, or the birth of new children. When a life insurance company like American National or Banner Life is faced with conflicting claims, they may file a life insurance interpleader lawsuit. This lawsuit allows the insurer to bring the dispute to court to determine who should receive the payout. While this may sound like a straightforward legal issue, it can often drag on for months or even years, leaving the beneficiaries in limbo and with no access to the funds they desperately need. Interpleader lawsuits are costly and time-consuming, making it crucial for Michigan residents to regularly update their beneficiary designations and ensure that their intentions are clear and legally binding.

Life insurance interpleader lawsuits are a significant hurdle in cases where there is a legitimate dispute between beneficiaries. In Michigan, these lawsuits can occur when one party contests the validity of the beneficiary designation. For example, if a spouse is named as the primary beneficiary, but the deceased's children from a previous marriage contest the beneficiary’s right to the policy proceeds, the insurance company may be forced to file an interpleader lawsuit to avoid potential legal repercussions. Insurers like Lincoln Heritage, American Memorial, and Nationwide may prefer to avoid deciding between competing claims, opting instead to allow the court to handle the matter. This allows them to protect themselves from the potential legal ramifications of making a wrong decision. While this might protect the insurer, it can leave the beneficiaries waiting for months, or even years, for a resolution.

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in Michigan, you can visit the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) or explore nationwide insurance resources through the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).