Life Insurance Lawyer New Hampshire

Experienced Life Insurance Lawyers New Hampshire: The Lassen Law Firm Navigating life insurance claims in New Hampshire can be challenging, especially when dealing with denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are here to help individuals and families across the Granite State recover the payouts they rightfully deserve. Whether you’re in Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Portsmouth, or anywhere else in New Hampshire, we provide expert legal representation and personalized support.

As nationally recognized life insurance attorneys, we handle cases across all 50 states, with hundreds of millions in policies recovered for our clients. The Lassen Law Firm combines relentless dedication, legal expertise, and compassionate advocacy to deliver justice for every client. 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.

New Hampshire denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim has been denied in New Hampshire?
If your life insurance claim was denied in New Hampshire, your first step should be to contact an experienced New Hampshire life insurance attorney who can assess the denial and help pursue the payout.
How do I respond to a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in New Hampshire?
Being served with a life insurance interpleader in New Hampshire means the insurer is leaving it to the court to decide who gets the benefit. You need a skilled New Hampshire life insurance lawyer to protect your claim.
What should I do if I’m in a life insurance beneficiary dispute in New Hampshire?
Disputes over life insurance beneficiaries in New Hampshire can involve relatives, ex-spouses, or others. Our New Hampshire life insurance law firm represents clients in resolving these disputes and asserting their rightful claims.
Why are accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) claims denied in New Hampshire?
AD&D claims in New Hampshire are often denied when the insurer argues the death was from a medical event or intoxication, not an accident. We investigate and challenge such denials with supporting evidence.
Can a policy lapse lead to a denied life insurance claim in New Hampshire?
Yes, but only if the insurer complied with New Hampshire’s notice and grace period requirements. We challenge improper lapse-related denials and fight to get coverage reinstated.
Is misrepresentation on a life insurance application a valid reason to deny a claim in New Hampshire?
Only if the misrepresentation was both material and intentional. We often succeed in showing that the misstatement had no bearing on the cause of death or was not misleading.
Can an alcohol exclusion be cited to deny a life insurance claim in New Hampshire?
Yes, but these exclusions must be specific and clearly linked to the cause of death. Our New Hampshire life insurance lawyers contest alcohol-based denials when they’re not justified.
How should I handle an ERISA life insurance denial in New Hampshire?
If your group policy is governed by ERISA, you only have one appeal. Our New Hampshire ERISA life insurance attorneys handle these claims with precision and prepare for litigation if necessary.
What is the contestability period and how does it affect New Hampshire life insurance claims?
In New Hampshire, the contestability period is typically two years from policy issuance. During this time, the insurer can deny claims due to application errors. We contest denials based on immaterial or unrelated information.
What if I receive a life insurance denial letter referencing New Hampshire law?
Insurers often cite New Hampshire statutes to justify denials. Our attorneys thoroughly review the legal basis and frequently find opportunities to dispute the denial.
Which life insurance companies are known for denying claims in New Hampshire?
While claim denials happen with any insurer, companies like Lincoln Financial and smaller regional carriers have been involved in numerous disputed claims in New Hampshire. We pursue claims against all insurers.
Does New Hampshire law revoke an ex-spouse’s beneficiary rights after divorce?
Yes. Under New Hampshire law, a divorce revokes an ex-spouse’s designation unless it was reaffirmed afterward. We help resolve these disputes and protect your rights.
Is New Hampshire a community property state, and does that impact life insurance claims?
No, New Hampshire is not a community property state. However, a spouse might still have rights to the proceeds if community assets were used to pay for the policy.
Can a will override the beneficiary on a New Hampshire life insurance policy?
No. In New Hampshire, the beneficiary listed on the policy controls, regardless of what a will says—unless there is legal evidence of fraud or undue influence.
What are the legal fees for a New Hampshire life insurance lawyer?
Our New Hampshire life insurance lawyers work on a contingency basis. You don’t pay anything unless we win your case and recover the life insurance benefit.
Can a life insurance claim be denied in New Hampshire due to a death that occurred abroad?
Yes, if the policy includes a foreign death exclusion. We challenge these denials when the exclusion is ambiguous or improperly applied.
What if the insured changed the beneficiary shortly before death in New Hampshire?
If the change was made under suspicious circumstances—like coercion or diminished capacity—we can challenge it. These cases often involve detailed legal investigation.
What can I do if my New Hampshire life insurance claim is delayed?
Unreasonable delays may be considered bad faith under New Hampshire law. We push insurers to act and may pursue legal remedies for wrongful delay.
Can New Hampshire insurers deny an AD&D claim by calling the death “natural”?
Yes, but we often challenge these denials. If the death meets the policy’s definition of accidental, we fight for full enforcement of the AD&D rider.
Can a New Hampshire insurance agent’s error cause a claim to be denied?
Yes, but insurers are still liable if the agent made a mistake. We handle denials involving agent errors and fight to secure benefits.
What qualifies as bad faith in a life insurance denial in New Hampshire?
Bad faith can include misrepresentation of policy terms, refusal to investigate, or a denial without proper cause. We pursue additional damages under New Hampshire law when bad faith is proven.
Can I appeal a contestability denial in New Hampshire?
Yes. We regularly overturn contestability-based denials by showing the misstatements weren’t material or had no link to the cause of death.
Are ERISA-governed life insurance policies harder to contest in New Hampshire?
They’re more procedurally strict, but our attorneys are experienced with the federal appeals process and know how to challenge ERISA denials effectively in New Hampshire.
What happens if a New Hampshire life insurance policy doesn’t name a beneficiary?
In that case, the proceeds typically go to the insured’s estate. We assist families in recovering those funds through New Hampshire probate procedures.
Can I dispute a questionable beneficiary change in New Hampshire?
Yes. If the change was made under pressure, without capacity, or under suspicious circumstances, we can file a challenge in New Hampshire court.
Are New Hampshire insurers required to give notice before policy cancellation?
Yes. Without proper written notice, a cancellation may be invalid. We contest denials that stem from improper cancellations or lapses.
How are employer-provided life insurance policies handled in New Hampshire?
Most are governed by ERISA. We help New Hampshire employees and families fight denials related to administrative mistakes, enrollment errors, or miscommunication.
What if multiple people claim the same New Hampshire life insurance policy?
If there’s a dispute, the insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit in New Hampshire court. We represent clients to assert and protect their share of the benefit.
Can I collect benefits in New Hampshire if the insured was declared dead after being missing?
Yes. After a legal death declaration in New Hampshire, we help the family file the life insurance claim and fight any denials.
How long do I have to file an appeal after a denial in New Hampshire?
For ERISA claims, you typically have 180 days. Other deadlines may vary based on the policy and state law. We ensure appeals are filed timely and correctly.
Can a verbal promise override the policy beneficiary in New Hampshire?
No. In New Hampshire, written designations control. However, we may seek equitable relief if there’s evidence of fraud or misconduct.
Are life insurance payouts shielded from creditors in New Hampshire?
Yes, if the benefit goes to a named beneficiary. If paid to the estate, creditors may have access under New Hampshire probate law.
Can vague language in a life insurance policy be used to deny a claim in New Hampshire?
No. Ambiguities in a policy must be interpreted in favor of the beneficiary under New Hampshire contract law. We use this principle to challenge unfair denials.
Can a canceled policy still result in a payout in New Hampshire?
Possibly. If the insurer didn’t follow New Hampshire’s notice rules or the policyholder attempted reinstatement, the claim may still be viable.
What if a New Hampshire policy was canceled due to non-payment?
We investigate whether required notices were issued. If not, the cancellation may not be valid, and we can demand the benefit be paid.
Can a child receive life insurance proceeds in New Hampshire?
Yes, but if the beneficiary is a minor, a legal guardian or trust may be needed. We help New Hampshire families set up protective arrangements.
Can a New Hampshire insurer deny a claim for suspected fraud?
Only if they can prove intentional fraud. We contest fraud-based denials that are speculative or lack evidence.
Can life insurance claim disputes be resolved without court in New Hampshire?
Yes. Many cases settle through negotiation or mediation. But we are fully prepared to litigate in New Hampshire court when necessary.
What happens if a beneficiary change form was completed but never submitted in New Hampshire?
If the change wasn’t finalized or accepted by the insurer, the original beneficiary may still be entitled. We pursue legal remedies based on the insured’s intent.
Are older life insurance policies still valid under New Hampshire law?
Yes. As long as the policy was active at the time of death, even very old policies remain enforceable. We help recover benefits from such policies.
How do I prove I’m the rightful life insurance beneficiary in New Hampshire?
We collect and present evidence—including the policy, communications, and supporting documentation—to build your claim. Our New Hampshire lawyers advocate for your right to the payout.

2025 New Hampshire Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

Transamerica COVID-19 death $502,000.00
Guardian Life chronic illness exclusion $49,000.00
AARP coronavirus denial case $104,000.00
Baltimore Life lapse of policy won $36,000.00
Mass shooting life insurance claim $102,000.00
Legal & General lapsed the policy $50,000.00
Accidental Death & Dismemberment drug use $290,000.00
Midland National power of attorney change $77,000.00
JRC Insurance Group beneficiary dispute $32,000.00
Haven Life interpleader lawsuit won $115,000.00
Athene Life material misrepresentation $80,000.00
Pacific Life act of war exclusion won $50,000.00
North American Life cancer rejection $98,000.00

MetLife policy purchased less than 2 years ago $328,500.00
Stonebridge illegal activity exclusion $202,860.00
AIG accidental death & dismemberment AD&D $407,000.00
Gerber ambiguous language policy $278,200.00
FEGLI dispute among beneficiaries $146,000.00
New Hampshire denied life insurance claim $1,500,000.00
ERISA appeal had to overcome 3 issues $139,000.00
Allstate material misrepresentation application $302,000.00
American General suspicious circumstances $204,000.00
New Hampshire denied AD&D claim won $1,00,000.00
Hartford autoerotic asphyxiation death $305,900.00
Globe lapse policy not in force $103,000.00
Transamerica alcohol drunk driving death $259,000.00
SGLI 2 issues first was beneficiary change $400,000.00
New Hampshire divorce and life insurance $731,000.00
AAA suicide or self-inflicted injury exclusion $114,200.00
Bankers issue with felony exclusion on policy $283,000.00
Genworth prescription drug exclusion issue $107,000.00

In New Hampshire, life insurance is often seen as a crucial financial safety net, designed to protect families and loved ones after the unexpected death of a policyholder. However, even with the peace of mind that comes with having coverage, beneficiaries can find themselves facing frustrating life insurance claim denials. While the more commonly cited reasons for claim denials—such as failure to pay premiums or non-disclosure of pre-existing conditions—are often well known, some denials stem from more unusual and less publicized issues. Insurers such as AIG, Allianz, and MetLife may refuse claims for technicalities that policyholders didn’t expect, leaving families grappling with the financial burden at a difficult time. It’s important for New Hampshire residents to understand these uncommon reasons for claim denials and how they can challenge such decisions.

One lesser-known reason for claim denials in New Hampshire involves the "policy lapse due to administrative errors." Though life insurance companies like Prudential, New York Life, and Transamerica have robust systems for tracking premiums, mistakes can still occur. If an insurer inadvertently fails to process a payment or misapplies a premium, the policyholder’s coverage might lapse, even if the premiums were paid on time. This can happen due to clerical errors or delays in updating account information. If the policyholder passes away after this lapse, the insurer may refuse the claim, arguing that the policy was technically voided due to administrative oversight. In such cases, beneficiaries may have to provide substantial evidence that the premium payments were made and that the error was caused by the insurer’s mistake.

Another uncommon cause for denial involves "claims related to alcohol or drug use." While many life insurance policies, including those from Lincoln Heritage, Mass Mutual, and MetLife, may include clauses excluding coverage if the policyholder's death results from alcohol or drug-related causes, the specifics of these clauses can vary. Even if alcohol or drug use was not a direct cause of death, insurers might argue that it played a contributory role, particularly if the policyholder had a history of addiction or abuse that was not fully disclosed at the time of application. For example, if a policyholder’s medical records show alcohol abuse or a related medical condition, and the insured dies from a condition indirectly linked to this history, the insurer may invoke the exclusion to deny the claim.

A unique and often overlooked reason for life insurance claim denials in New Hampshire is related to the insured's participation in high-risk occupations or hobbies. While life insurance policies from companies like Foresters, Symetra, and Jackson Life generally have exclusions for high-risk activities, some insured individuals may not fully understand the scope of these exclusions. For instance, if someone works as a pilot or engages in extreme sports like base jumping or rock climbing and fails to disclose this information on their application, the insurer may deny a claim if the policyholder dies during one of these activities. These policies are intended to mitigate the insurer’s exposure to high-risk claims, but beneficiaries may not always realize that certain jobs or hobbies can invalidate their coverage if they weren't disclosed during the application process.

A more specific denial reason can arise due to the "dual insurance" situation, where the policyholder has multiple life insurance policies from different companies. In this scenario, companies such as Erie, USAA, and Hartford Life may find themselves in conflict regarding which one should pay out the death benefit, especially if the insured died under circumstances that are disputed. If the insured had multiple policies that were not cross-referenced, each insurer might refuse to pay out until they can determine the amount owed. If there are conflicting terms in the policies—such as one providing full coverage and the other offering a reduced payout—the situation may require legal intervention to settle, potentially leading to delays or partial payouts.

Beneficiary disputes, too, can complicate the claims process. Disputes often arise when the designated beneficiary is unclear or when the policyholder’s will is contested. Life insurance policies like those from Reliance Standard, Lincoln Financial, and Globe Life can become tangled in these types of conflicts, especially when family members or former spouses contest the policyholder’s intentions. When beneficiaries disagree on who should receive the payout, the insurance company may be forced to file an interpleader lawsuit to resolve the matter. This legal procedure allows the insurer to deposit the death benefit with the court and essentially let the judge determine who is entitled to the funds. The interpleader lawsuit protects the insurer from legal liability while the courts sort out the rightful beneficiary. However, it can result in significant delays, leaving the claimant with little recourse until the issue is resolved.

In some cases, the cause of death itself may become a point of contention. Insurers like Securian, American National, and Protective Life may contest a claim if there is ambiguity about whether the cause of death was accidental or natural. For example, if the insured’s death was ruled as accidental but there were complications, such as prior medical conditions or potential involvement in a risky activity, the insurer might refuse the claim, citing that it doesn’t fit the terms of the policy. Additionally, if the death occurred under suspicious circumstances, the insurer may request an extended investigation before deciding whether to issue the payout. Such delays often add to the emotional and financial stress experienced by beneficiaries.

Another denial reason that can catch policyholders off guard is related to "coverage exclusions for criminal activity." In certain policies, if the insured person dies while involved in illegal activities—such as committing a crime or during the commission of a felony—insurers like State Farm, Nationwide, and Assurant may exclude payment. If a policyholder’s death is linked to criminal behavior, even if they were not convicted of a crime during their lifetime, the insurer might invoke the criminal activity exclusion to deny a claim. This is especially common when the cause of death was related to actions such as armed robbery, driving under the influence, or drug trafficking.

For those in New Hampshire facing these kinds of denials, understanding the terms and conditions of their life insurance policies can be the key to preventing issues at the time of claim. One of the most proactive steps policyholders can take is to maintain transparency with their insurer. This means clearly disclosing any potential exclusions, such as risky hobbies, medical conditions, or dangerous occupations, during the application process. It also helps to regularly review and update beneficiary information to prevent any future disputes.

When a denial occurs, beneficiaries should be prepared to contest it. If the insurer cites obscure or unexpected reasons for denial, such as the ones mentioned above, it’s crucial to gather all necessary documentation, including medical records, proof of premium payments, and the policyholder’s complete application history. Legal professionals who specialize in life insurance disputes can help guide beneficiaries through the appeals process and, if necessary, assist with filing lawsuits. If the case involves an interpleader lawsuit, experienced legal counsel can ensure that the beneficiary’s claim is properly presented in court.

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in New Hampshire, you can visit the New Hampshire Insurance Department. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.