Life Insurance Lawyer Ohio

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers Ohio: The Lassen Law Firm Navigating life insurance claims in Ohio can be complicated, particularly when dealing with denied benefits or bad faith practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families across the Buckeye State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, or any other part of Ohio, we bring trusted legal expertise and personalized attention to every case.

As experienced life insurance attorneys handling cases nationwide, we’ve successfully recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we combine legal expertise, unwavering dedication, and compassionate advocacy to fight for justice for those 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.

Ohio denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim has been denied in Ohio?
If your claim was denied in Ohio, you should speak with an experienced Ohio life insurance lawyer as soon as possible. Many denials can be reversed with legal help and a thorough review of your case.
How should I respond to a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in Ohio?
An interpleader in Ohio means the insurance company is asking the court to decide who receives the benefit. You need a skilled Ohio life insurance attorney to represent you and protect your interests.
What can I do about a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Ohio?
Our Ohio life insurance law firm handles beneficiary disputes involving multiple claimants, ex-spouses, or contested changes. We pursue legal remedies to ensure the rightful party receives the benefit.
Why might an accidental death & dismemberment claim be denied in Ohio?
AD&D claims in Ohio are commonly denied when the insurer argues the death was due to a medical event or intoxication, not an accident. We challenge these denials with detailed medical reviews and legal strategies.
Can a policy lapse be used to deny a life insurance claim in Ohio?
Yes, but not all lapses are valid under Ohio law. If proper notice wasn’t provided or the death occurred during the grace period, our attorneys may be able to reverse the denial.
Is misrepresentation on a life insurance application a valid denial reason in Ohio?
Yes, but Ohio law requires that the misstatement be both material and intentional. We fight back against denials based on minor or irrelevant omissions in the application.
Can life insurance be denied in Ohio because of alcohol involvement?
Yes, but insurers in Ohio must prove that alcohol directly caused the death. We often dispute denials based on vague or overly broad alcohol exclusions.
What should I do if my ERISA life insurance claim was denied in Ohio?
ERISA-governed policies in Ohio allow only one appeal, so it's important to get legal help right away. Our team prepares strong appeals that comply with federal law and are ready for court if needed.
What is the contestability period in Ohio life insurance policies?
In Ohio, the contestability period typically lasts two years. During this time, insurers may deny claims based on alleged misstatements. We fight these denials by proving the errors were immaterial or unrelated to the cause of death.
What if I get a denial letter citing Ohio law?
Even if your claim was denied under Ohio state law, that doesn’t mean the denial is valid. We analyze the legal reasoning and often uncover errors that can form the basis of a successful appeal.
Which life insurance companies in Ohio deny the most claims?
Western & Southern Financial Group and Ohio National Financial Services in Cincinnati, along with Nationwide in Columbus, have been named in numerous disputed claims. We pursue denials against all major Ohio insurers.
Does Ohio law revoke an ex-spouse’s beneficiary status after divorce?
Yes. In Ohio, an ex-spouse is automatically removed as a life insurance beneficiary unless the insured reaffirms the designation after divorce. We handle cases where this rule is contested.
Is Ohio a community property state, and how does that impact life insurance?
No, Ohio is not a community property state. However, a surviving spouse may still assert a legal interest in the policy if premiums were paid with marital funds. We help assess these claims.
Can a will change the beneficiary on a life insurance policy in Ohio?
No. Under Ohio law, the beneficiary listed on the policy controls. A will cannot override the designation unless there’s evidence of fraud or undue influence.
What does it cost to hire an Ohio life insurance attorney?
We represent clients in Ohio on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case and recover the benefit for you.
Can an Ohio life insurance claim be denied if the death occurred abroad?
Yes, if the policy includes a foreign death exclusion. However, many such denials in Ohio are challengeable, especially when exclusions are vague or not clearly applicable.
What if a beneficiary change was made shortly before death in Ohio?
Last-minute beneficiary changes in Ohio may be invalid if they resulted from undue influence or mental incapacity. We investigate and file challenges when necessary.
What happens if my life insurance claim is being delayed in Ohio?
Delays without cause can amount to bad faith under Ohio law. If your claim is stalled, our attorneys push for resolution and may seek penalties for the delay.
Can an insurer in Ohio deny an AD&D claim by classifying the death as natural?
Yes, but we often dispute this tactic. If evidence shows the death qualifies as accidental, we fight for full payment of the AD&D benefit in Ohio.
Can agent error lead to denial of a life insurance claim in Ohio?
If an Ohio agent made a mistake on the application, the insurer may still be liable. We regularly challenge denials caused by agent errors.
What is bad faith in a life insurance claim denial in Ohio?
Bad faith in Ohio includes wrongful denial of claims, failure to investigate, or misrepresentation of the policy. We seek compensation beyond the death benefit in such cases.
Can you appeal a claim denial during the contestability period in Ohio?
Yes, and many such appeals are successful. We demonstrate that the alleged misstatements weren’t relevant to the claim or were unintentional.
Are ERISA life insurance appeals harder to win in Ohio?
They can be, due to limited remedies and strict rules. Our Ohio team is experienced in handling ERISA appeals and pursuing federal court action if needed.
What happens if no beneficiary is named on a life insurance policy in Ohio?
If there’s no listed beneficiary, the benefit typically passes to the estate. We assist Ohio families in navigating probate and claiming life insurance proceeds.
Can a questionable beneficiary designation be challenged in Ohio?
Yes. If fraud, coercion, or lack of capacity is suspected, we challenge improper beneficiary changes in Ohio court to protect rightful claimants.
Do Ohio insurers have to send notice before canceling a policy?
Yes, insurers in Ohio must give proper notice before canceling a policy. If they didn’t follow the law, we may be able to have the policy reinstated.
How are union and employer-provided life insurance policies handled in Ohio?
Many such policies fall under ERISA or are governed by special group contract rules. We examine these details and fight wrongful denials.
What if multiple people are claiming the same life insurance benefit in Ohio?
If more than one party claims the benefit, the insurer may file an interpleader in Ohio court. We represent clients in these cases and help assert rightful claims.
What happens if the insured went missing and was declared dead in Ohio?
Once a person is declared legally deceased in Ohio, life insurance benefits may be claimed. We guide families through this legal process and file the necessary claims.
What are the deadlines for appealing a denied life insurance claim in Ohio?
ERISA appeals must be submitted within 180 days. State-governed policies in Ohio may have different deadlines. We ensure appeals are filed on time and properly prepared.
Can verbal agreements affect life insurance beneficiary designations in Ohio?
Generally, no. Ohio law enforces written designations, but we may seek equitable remedies in cases involving fraud or unjust enrichment.
Are life insurance payouts safe from creditors in Ohio?
Yes, if there is a named beneficiary. If the benefit is paid to the estate, creditors in Ohio may access it through probate proceedings.
Can unclear policy language lead to claim denial in Ohio?
Yes, but under Ohio law, ambiguous terms are interpreted in favor of the policyholder or beneficiary. We use this standard to fight unjust denials.
Can a canceled or lapsed policy still pay out in Ohio?
It might. If the insurer didn’t follow Ohio cancellation procedures or the policyholder attempted reinstatement, we may be able to recover benefits.
What if the policy was canceled due to non-payment in Ohio?
We examine whether the insurer sent the required notices under Ohio law. If not, the policy may still be in force.
Can minors receive life insurance payouts in Ohio?
Yes, but Ohio law requires a guardian or trust to manage the funds. We help families set up the appropriate legal structure.
Can fraud accusations be used to deny life insurance claims in Ohio?
Only if supported by clear evidence. We challenge vague or baseless fraud denials in Ohio and work to recover the full benefit.
Can a life insurance dispute in Ohio be resolved without court?
Yes. Many cases settle through negotiation. We pursue resolution efficiently while being ready to litigate if needed.
What if a beneficiary change form was filled out but never submitted in Ohio?
Unsubmitted forms may not be valid. We review these situations and may seek court involvement to honor the policyholder’s true intent under Ohio law.
Are older life insurance policies still valid in Ohio?
Yes. If the policy was active at the time of death, it remains enforceable under Ohio law. We help beneficiaries claim payouts from older policies.
How do I prove I’m the rightful life insurance beneficiary in Ohio?
We gather the necessary documentation, policy records, and legal evidence to support your position. Our Ohio attorneys present a strong case to secure your benefit.

2025 Ohio Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

In 2025, Ohio saw numerous successful outcomes in denied life insurance claims, each reflecting strategic legal intervention and attention to insurer errors:
A COVID-19 death denial was overturned, resulting in a $101,500 payout after challenging ambiguous pandemic exclusions.
Sec Mutual Life’s denial involving oxycontin use was contested successfully, securing $44,000 by clarifying legitimate medical usage.
Ohio National’s COVID-19 denial was reversed, recovering $106,000 through litigation clarifying pandemic coverage obligations.
Colonial Life’s material misrepresentation denial was overturned, securing $12,000 by demonstrating no fraudulent intent.
Freedom Life’s coronavirus-related death denial was resolved favorably, recovering $44,000 through advocacy clarifying policy language.
Ladder Life’s felony crime exclusion denial was successfully contested, securing $31,000 by addressing insurer misinterpretation.
Mutual Security Life’s denial for incorrect age on application was overturned, recovering $55,000 through evidence of clerical error.
Ethos Life’s policy lapse denial was successfully resolved, recovering $90,000 by proving inadequate notice.
American Family Life’s insurance exclusion denial was overturned, recovering $12,000 after clarifying ambiguous policy terms.
GEICO Life’s denial due to cancer in the medical records was successfully contested, securing $103,300 by proving underwriting oversights.
Union Fidelity Life’s rejection of a power of attorney change was overturned, recovering $42,000 through valid documentation.
AAA’s contestable period denial was successfully resolved, securing $55,000 by highlighting procedural violations.
An AD&D claim denial involving drug use was contested successfully, recovering $34,000 by proving accidental circumstances.
Guarantee Security Life’s intoxication exclusion denial was overturned, recovering $290,000 after clarifying the insured’s intent and medical status.
AIG’s denial involving a power of attorney change was successfully resolved, recovering $350,000 with valid legal support.
A mass shooting-related denial in Ohio was successfully contested, securing $50,000 by addressing exclusions.
Nationwide’s denial involving an alleged drunk driving death was overturned, recovering $218,000 by clarifying cause of death.
AARP’s interpleader lawsuit was favorably resolved, securing $104,000 by confirming the rightful beneficiary.
Genworth’s self-inflicted injury exclusion denial was overturned, recovering $253,000 by clarifying the insured’s intent.
Transamerica’s foreign death claim denial was successfully resolved, recovering $538,000 by proving valid policy applicability.
An SGLI claim involving competing claimants was successfully resolved, awarding $400,000 after documentation review.
A major Ohio denied life insurance claim totaling $1,250,000 was successfully litigated, emphasizing procedural failures by the insurer.
Fidelity’s material misrepresentation denial was successfully contested, recovering $331,000 through strong legal evidence.
An ERISA-governed appeal of denied benefits was won, recovering $162,500 by proving violations of federal protections.
AIG’s denial due to no beneficiary designation was resolved, recovering $121,000 by identifying legal next of kin.
State Farm’s felony exclusion denial was successfully contested, recovering $228,900 by clarifying the insured’s actions.
Another Ohio denied life insurance claim totaling $924,000 was successfully resolved through legal intervention.
Unum’s delay in policy benefits was resolved, recovering $326,000 by demonstrating administrative negligence.
A divorce-related life insurance denial in Ohio was successfully contested, securing $400,000 by clarifying beneficiary entitlement.
Liberty Life’s dispute between a wife and ex-wife was resolved, securing $175,300 by confirming legal precedence of beneficiary designation.
Banner Life’s denial involving autoerotic asphyxiation death was overturned, recovering $253,000 by clarifying accidental death coverage.

Ohio Life Insurance Claim Denials

Life insurance claims in Ohio can sometimes be more challenging than expected, especially when the claim is denied for reasons that are not immediately obvious to the beneficiary. While some common causes for denial, like failure to pay premiums or exclusion of death due to suicide within the first two years of coverage, are well known, there are other, less common reasons that can lead to the rejection of a claim. These reasons often involve specific clauses in the policy, misunderstandings about policy terms, or issues regarding the beneficiary. Companies like American General, AARP, and Lincoln Heritage are among those that have denied claims for some of these less visible reasons, leaving grieving families in difficult situations.

One potential denial reason that may surprise many beneficiaries is the issue of "incorrect beneficiary designation." Insurance companies such as MetLife, Transamerica, and Globe Life may deny a claim if the designated beneficiary on the life insurance policy is outdated or no longer valid. This situation often arises when the policyholder fails to update their beneficiary information after a major life event, like divorce or remarriage. For instance, if a policyholder divorced their spouse but never updated the beneficiary information, the insurer might proceed to pay the death benefit to the ex-spouse instead of the new partner, which could lead to disputes. This becomes a significant issue in Ohio, where state law allows the beneficiary designation to stand unless the policyholder has explicitly updated it in writing. Such misunderstandings could trigger a contentious beneficiary dispute and delay or prevent the proper distribution of the funds.

Another, less well-known reason for a life insurance denial involves the "lack of proper documentation" during the claims process. Even if the death was caused by an event covered by the policy, companies such as Prudential, Reliastar, and USAA have denied claims because the required documents were incomplete or submitted incorrectly. For example, a policyholder might fail to provide the official death certificate or the insurer might argue that the autopsy report was insufficient to establish the cause of death. Additionally, in Ohio, insurers may require additional forms such as medical records or proof of financial dependency if the deceased was providing primary financial support for a family member. Missing any of these critical documents could lead to a claim denial, causing frustration for beneficiaries who might not fully understand the process.

Complicated legal language within the policy itself can also result in unexpected denials. Life insurance companies like AIG, Farmers, and Symetra sometimes include exclusions or fine print that beneficiaries may overlook when they first purchase the policy. For example, some policies have a clause that excludes coverage if the death results from "illegal activity." In cases where the insured passed away while engaging in illegal activities, such as driving under the influence or participating in a criminal act, the insurer could invoke this clause to deny the claim. These exclusions are often buried in the policy’s terms and are not clearly communicated at the time of purchase. As a result, beneficiaries may feel blindsided when they learn that the claim is denied due to an activity that occurred years before the insured’s death.

Another less common reason for life insurance claim denial is related to "contestability periods" and the insurer’s ability to investigate the cause of death. Companies like Lincoln Financial, Protective, and Guardian may deny a claim if they discover inconsistencies or discrepancies in the information provided during the application process. For example, if a policyholder lied about their smoking status, medical conditions, or occupation (e.g., claiming they were not a smoker when they were), the insurer could claim that the policy was issued under false pretenses. While such misrepresentations are often made unintentionally, they can lead to claim denial, especially if they are uncovered during the contestability period, which is typically the first two years after the policy is issued.

A particularly complex issue arises in "beneficiary disputes," which can significantly delay or even prevent a payout. These disputes occur when multiple parties claim the death benefit or when one beneficiary contests the validity of the designation. Life insurance companies like Erie, MassMutual, and New York Life often face such cases when beneficiaries claim they were the intended recipient of the death benefit, but the deceased had made multiple updates to their policy or left behind conflicting documentation. For instance, an estranged family member might challenge the validity of a beneficiary change made shortly before death, particularly if there is evidence that the insured was under duress or influenced by another party when making the change. These disputes can be particularly complex in Ohio, where a court may need to step in and resolve conflicting claims.

In some situations, life insurance companies may resort to filing an "interpleader lawsuit" to resolve beneficiary disputes. An interpleader lawsuit is a legal tool used by insurance companies when they are unsure who should receive the benefits due to conflicting claims. For example, if two individuals both claim to be the rightful beneficiary of a policy, the insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit to have the court decide who is entitled to the funds. Companies like Nationwide, State Farm, and Banner Life have been involved in interpleader lawsuits, often when beneficiaries present contradictory claims or when there is suspicion of fraud. The lawsuit allows the insurer to deposit the death benefit into the court registry and remove themselves from the conflict, letting a judge determine the rightful recipient. While this is an effective way for insurers to protect themselves legally, it can result in significant delays for the beneficiaries as the legal process unfolds.

It is also important to understand that in Ohio, like in many other states, a "misstatement of age" or "fraudulent application" can lead to claim denials. For example, if the policyholder understated their age at the time of the application, it could affect the payout amount. This might happen if the insurer determines that the policyholder was much older than what was disclosed, making the policy void or altering the death benefit. The same applies if the insured falsified their health status or occupation, as insurers will often conduct investigations to ensure the information provided at the time of application was truthful.

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