Life Insurance Lawyer Rhode Island

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers Rhode Island: The Lassen Law Firm Dealing with life insurance claims in Rhode Island can be daunting, especially when facing denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families across the Ocean State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, or any other part of Rhode Island, we provide expert legal guidance and personalized support to every client.

With a nationwide presence, our experienced life insurance attorneys have successfully recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we bring dedication, legal expertise, and relentless advocacy to fight for justice for those we represent. 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.

Rhode Island Denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim is denied in Rhode Island?
If your life insurance claim has been denied in Rhode Island, contact an experienced Rhode Island life insurance lawyer right away. A skilled attorney can evaluate your denial and begin the process of recovering the payout.
How do I respond to a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in Rhode Island?
If you've been served with a life insurance interpleader in Rhode Island, the insurer is asking the court to decide who should receive the money. You need a Rhode Island life insurance attorney to protect your rights during this legal process.
What if I'm involved in a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Rhode Island?
Beneficiary disputes in Rhode Island can involve ex-spouses, adult children, or last-minute changes. Our Rhode Island life insurance law firm has the experience to resolve these disputes in and out of court.
Why are accidental death & dismemberment claims denied in Rhode Island?
AD&D claims in Rhode Island are often denied when insurers claim the death resulted from a medical issue or intoxication. We examine policy language and medical evidence to fight back against these denials.
Can a policy lapse lead to a denied life insurance claim in Rhode Island?
Yes, but not always lawfully. If the insurer in Rhode Island failed to send proper lapse notices or the policyholder died during a grace period, the denial may be overturned.
Can misrepresentation on an application be a valid reason for a denied life insurance claim in Rhode Island?
Yes, but the misstatement must be material and intentionally misleading. We challenge denials based on minor or irrelevant inaccuracies under Rhode Island insurance law.
Can an alcohol exclusion prevent payment on a life insurance policy in Rhode Island?
Yes, but Rhode Island insurers must prove alcohol directly caused the death and that the exclusion was clearly worded. We frequently contest alcohol-related denials successfully.
What should I do if my group life insurance claim was denied under ERISA in Rhode Island?
If your ERISA-governed group policy claim was denied in Rhode Island, you only have one appeal opportunity. Our firm prepares complete and compelling ERISA appeals to protect your rights.
What is the contestability period in Rhode Island life insurance policies?
Rhode Island policies usually include a two-year contestability window. During that time, insurers can investigate misstatements. We defend claims by showing any errors were not material or connected to the cause of death.
What if I receive a denial letter referencing Rhode Island law?
Just because an insurer cites Rhode Island law in a denial doesn’t mean the decision is correct. We carefully review the legal basis to find errors and pursue reversal of wrongful denials.
Which Rhode Island life insurance companies deny the most claims?
MetLife and Providence Mutual, both located in Warwick, Rhode Island, have been involved in numerous contested claims. We handle claims against all life insurers operating in Rhode Island.
Does Rhode Island law revoke ex-spouse beneficiary designations after divorce?
Yes. Rhode Island law automatically removes an ex-spouse as a life insurance beneficiary after divorce unless the insured reaffirmed the designation afterward. We handle these disputes regularly.
Is Rhode Island a community property state and does that affect life insurance?
No, Rhode Island is not a community property state. However, if marital funds were used to pay premiums, a surviving spouse might still have a claim. We help analyze these cases.
Can a will override a life insurance beneficiary in Rhode Island?
No. Rhode Island law gives priority to the named beneficiary on the policy. A will cannot override it unless there are exceptional circumstances involving fraud or coercion.
What do Rhode Island life insurance attorneys charge?
Our Rhode Island life insurance lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case and recover the payout.
Can a life insurance claim in Rhode Island be denied for a death that occurred outside the U.S.?
Yes, but only if the policy includes a valid foreign death exclusion. We challenge international death denials in Rhode Island when exclusions are vague or misapplied.
What happens if a beneficiary was changed shortly before the insured's death in Rhode Island?
Beneficiary changes made near the time of death in Rhode Island may be challenged if they were the result of undue influence or if the policyholder lacked legal capacity.
What should I do if my Rhode Island life insurance claim is being delayed without explanation?
If your claim is stalled with no clear reason, the delay may be considered bad faith. Our attorneys pursue legal action in Rhode Island to compel timely payment.
Can an insurer in Rhode Island deny an AD&D claim by saying the death was from natural causes?
Yes, but we contest these denials by gathering medical evidence that supports an accidental cause of death under the terms of the Rhode Island policy.
What if a Rhode Island life insurance agent made a mistake on the application?
If the agent entered incorrect information, the insurer may still be responsible. We handle agent error cases throughout Rhode Island and fight to recover the full benefit.
What qualifies as bad faith in a Rhode Island life insurance denial?
Bad faith in Rhode Island includes denying claims without valid reason, failing to investigate, or misrepresenting the policy. We pursue damages beyond the death benefit when bad faith is involved.
Can I appeal a life insurance denial made during the contestability period in Rhode Island?
Yes, and you should. We often appeal denials issued during Rhode Island contestability periods and prove that alleged misstatements had no bearing on the cause of death.
Are ERISA life insurance claims harder to win in Rhode Island?
They can be. ERISA limits your legal remedies and imposes strict deadlines. We guide clients in Rhode Island through the appeal process and prepare for federal litigation if needed.
What happens if there’s no beneficiary listed on a Rhode Island life insurance policy?
If no beneficiary is named, the proceeds typically go to the estate. We help Rhode Island families navigate probate and claim the funds through the proper legal channels.
Can I dispute a questionable beneficiary change in Rhode Island?
Yes. If there is evidence of fraud, coercion, or mental incapacity, we can file a legal challenge in Rhode Island to restore a previous or rightful beneficiary.
Do life insurers in Rhode Island have to provide notice before canceling a policy?
Yes. Rhode Island law requires that insurers send proper notice before terminating a life insurance policy for non-payment. We challenge denials when this notice wasn't provided.
What happens with union or group life insurance coverage in Rhode Island?
Group policies often have additional requirements and may fall under ERISA. We review the policy and employer records to uncover wrongful denials in Rhode Island.
Can more than one person claim the same life insurance benefit in Rhode Island?
Yes. In such cases, the insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit in Rhode Island. We represent clients in these cases to ensure their interests are protected in court.
What if the insured person in Rhode Island went missing and was declared legally dead?
After a legal death declaration is issued in Rhode Island, the life insurance claim process can begin. We guide families through this and the necessary legal filings.
What are the appeal deadlines for denied life insurance claims in Rhode Island?
ERISA appeals must be filed within 180 days. Non-ERISA policies may have different time limits. We ensure appeals in Rhode Island are filed on time and properly prepared.
Are verbal agreements about life insurance enforceable in Rhode Island?
Generally no. In Rhode Island, the policy’s written terms control. But if there’s evidence of fraud or deception, we may pursue equitable remedies.
Are life insurance benefits protected from creditors in Rhode Island?
If there’s a named beneficiary, life insurance proceeds are generally protected from creditors in Rhode Island. If payable to the estate, they may be subject to claims.
Can unclear life insurance policy language lead to a denial in Rhode Island?
If the language is vague or ambiguous, Rhode Island law requires that it be interpreted in favor of the beneficiary. We use this principle to fight back against such denials.
Can a lapsed life insurance policy still pay out in Rhode Island?
Yes. If the insurer didn’t follow proper procedures or the insured attempted reinstatement, we may be able to challenge the lapse and recover the benefit.
What if the Rhode Island policy was canceled for non-payment?
We investigate whether proper notice was given. In Rhode Island, failure to notify the insured can make the cancellation invalid.
Can a child receive life insurance money in Rhode Island?
Yes, but if the beneficiary is a minor, a guardian or trust must typically manage the funds. We help Rhode Island families create the right legal arrangements.
Can Rhode Island insurers deny a claim based on fraud allegations?
Only if they can prove fraud. If the denial is based on suspicion or unsupported claims, we challenge it and demand full policy benefits.
Can a life insurance dispute in Rhode Island be resolved without going to court?
Yes. Many Rhode Island life insurance disputes are settled through negotiation. We aim for fast, favorable resolutions while preparing for litigation if needed.
What happens if a beneficiary change form wasn’t submitted in Rhode Island?
If the change was not properly processed, it may be invalid. We investigate and may pursue equitable remedies to honor the insured’s true intent in Rhode Island.
Are older life insurance policies still enforceable in Rhode Island?
Yes. As long as premiums were paid or the policy was in force, older Rhode Island policies remain valid. We help claim long-overdue benefits.
How can I prove I’m the correct life insurance beneficiary under Rhode Island law?
We gather policy records, statements, and supporting evidence to prove your legal right. Our Rhode Island attorneys guide you through the process from start to finish.

2025 Rhode Island Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

In 2025, Rhode Island saw significant legal outcomes in denied life insurance claims, successfully resolved through expert legal representation, highlighting insurer missteps and policy ambiguities:

Transamerica’s coronavirus-related death denial was overturned, resulting in a favorable settlement of $504,000 by clarifying pandemic coverage provisions.
Settlers Life’s denial based on chronic illness exclusion was successfully contested, recovering $15,000 by demonstrating insurer misinterpretation.
North American Life’s COVID-19 denial was successfully overturned, securing a payout of $106,000 through effective advocacy.
American Chambers Life’s exclusion-based denial was successfully challenged, recovering $33,000 by addressing ambiguous policy language.
Lincoln Memorial Life’s felony exclusion denial was overturned, securing $76,000 by demonstrating insurer misapplication of criminal exclusions.
Guarantee Security Life’s interpleader lawsuit was resolved favorably, awarding beneficiaries $51,000 by clearly establishing rightful entitlement.
Inter-American Life’s denial due to unauthorized power of attorney changes was successfully contested, recovering $18,000 through validated documentation.
A Rhode Island mass shooting-related life claim denial was successfully overturned, recovering $92,000 by addressing ambiguous exclusions.
Mutual Benefit Life’s chronic illness exclusion denial was successfully contested, securing $57,000 by proving insurer misinterpretation.
First National Life’s denial involving a self-inflicted injury (hanging) was overturned, securing $130,000 through litigation clarifying accidental death provisions.
AAA Life’s material misrepresentation denial was successfully contested, recovering $95,000 by establishing non-intentional inaccuracies.
Forethought Life’s felony exclusion denial was successfully overturned, recovering $144,000 by clarifying insurer misapplication.
Colorado Bankers Life’s denial due to an incorrect Social Security number was successfully challenged, recovering $40,000 by proving clerical error.
Zander Life’s denial linked to undisclosed cancer in medical records was successfully contested, securing $23,000 through demonstrating underwriting oversights.
Phoenix Life’s contestable period denial was successfully contested, securing $39,000 through litigation clarifying policy terms.
Prudential’s invalid beneficiary designation denial was overturned, recovering $405,000 by demonstrating insurer administrative errors.
HSBC’s felony exclusion denial involving alleged criminal activity was successfully contested, securing $321,000 by proving insurer misinterpretation.
AIG’s denial related to alcohol exclusion from drunk driving death was successfully challenged, recovering $288,000 by clarifying alcohol’s indirect role.
A substantial Rhode Island denied life insurance claim totaling $1,653,000 was successfully litigated, emphasizing extensive insurer procedural mistakes.
Globe Life’s contestable period denial involving medical issues was successfully overturned, recovering $104,000 through advocacy clarifying policy terms.
A FEGLI appeal was successfully resolved through expert legal briefing, securing $139,000 by demonstrating insurer procedural failures.
Stonebridge Life’s denial claiming the policy was not in force was overturned, securing $250,000 by proving insurer administrative errors.
An ERISA-governed appeal denial of benefits was successfully contested, recovering $184,000 by establishing federal guideline violations.
Gerber Life’s sickness exclusion denial was favorably resolved, recovering $277,000 through effective advocacy clarifying policy terms.
Another significant Rhode Island denied life insurance claim totaling $2,045,200 was successfully resolved through strategic litigation highlighting insurer errors.
An SGLI dispute involving an ex-wife versus child beneficiary was successfully resolved, securing a $400,000 payout.
American General’s interpleader lawsuit was favorably resolved, awarding beneficiaries $300,000 by clearly establishing rightful entitlement.
Genworth’s prescription drug exclusion denial was overturned, securing $109,000 through litigation demonstrating medical legitimacy.
A Rhode Island divorce-related life insurance denial totaling $518,000 was favorably resolved by clarifying post-divorce beneficiary entitlement.
Nationwide’s autoerotic asphyxiation-related denial was successfully contested, recovering $253,000 through clarifying accidental death coverage.
A Rhode Island bad faith life insurance claim denial was successfully resolved, securing $629,000 by highlighting insurer misconduct and procedural errors.
AARP’s denial based on alleged misrepresentation was overturned, recovering $301,900 by proving inaccuracies were non-intentional.

Rhode Island Life Insurance Claim Denials

In Rhode Island, life insurance claims can sometimes face unexpected hurdles, especially when the reasons for denial aren’t the most commonly known. Many beneficiaries might think their claim will be smooth sailing only to find that various technicalities, unusual exclusions, or issues with the policyholder’s actions can lead to a denial. Among the companies that have been known to deny claims in such circumstances are AIG, MassMutual, Transamerica, and Lincoln Financial. Understanding these less common denial reasons and the potential for beneficiary disputes can help beneficiaries navigate the complexities of life insurance claims more effectively.

One lesser-known reason for a life insurance claim denial in Rhode Island is the insurer’s assertion that the cause of death falls under a specific exclusion clause for "acts of war or terrorism." While exclusions for suicide and criminal activities are well-known, policies may also include exclusions for deaths that occur as a result of armed conflict, terrorism, or other violent events. Insurers like MetLife, New York Life, and Reliance Standard may invoke this clause in cases where a policyholder dies as part of an event tied to war or a terrorist attack. For example, if the policyholder was traveling abroad in a region experiencing political instability or was working in a high-risk area when they died, these companies may determine that the cause of death falls under the exclusion. This can be a major shock for the beneficiary, who may not have realized that such exclusions existed in the fine print of their loved one’s policy.

Another often-overlooked reason for denial comes when a claim is rejected due to "inconsistent or incomplete documentation." When filing a life insurance claim, beneficiaries are required to submit a death certificate and other necessary documentation to prove the circumstances of the insured’s passing. However, life insurance companies such as Globe Life, Prudential, and Symetra have been known to deny claims if the paperwork provided does not meet their specific requirements. In particular, if there are discrepancies in the documentation—for instance, if the cause of death listed on the death certificate does not align with the information provided in the initial claim, or if there are missing signatures or incomplete details—these insurers may take the position that the claim cannot be processed. This issue can often arise in cases where the insured died under unusual or unclear circumstances, leaving the beneficiary scrambling to resolve discrepancies in the paperwork.

An especially complex reason for denial in Rhode Island arises when the life insurance company claims that the insured passed away from a pre-existing condition that was not disclosed when the policy was originally issued. Pre-existing conditions, such as chronic diseases or genetic disorders, may lead to exclusions or limitations in coverage if not fully disclosed. If a policyholder was diagnosed with a serious illness such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer, and they failed to disclose this information when applying for life insurance, insurers like Aetna, Reliastar, and Hartford Life may argue that this omission constitutes a "material misrepresentation." If the insured dies from a condition linked to that undisclosed pre-existing illness, these insurers might deny the claim entirely, leaving the beneficiary without the coverage they expected. This situation is often complicated and can require significant legal intervention to prove that the omission was not intentional or that the insurer’s denial was wrongful.

On a more unexpected note, life insurance companies like Jackson Life, Foresters, and Banner Life may also deny claims based on what’s known as the "waiting period" provision for certain types of policies, particularly "graded death benefit" policies. These policies are designed for individuals who may have difficulty qualifying for standard life insurance due to health issues. However, they often contain a waiting period—typically two or three years—during which the full death benefit is not paid out. If the policyholder dies during this waiting period, the beneficiary might only receive a refund of premiums paid, or in some cases, a portion of the death benefit. While this is generally understood for graded policies, it can still come as a surprise to beneficiaries who aren’t aware of the nuances of their loved one’s specific coverage. Insurers such as Securian and Forethought Life have been known to reject claims in such situations, causing confusion for families who expect a full payout.

Policyholders who work in "high-risk" occupations or engage in dangerous activities may also face complications when it comes to claims. Some life insurance policies, including those issued by companies such as State Farm, Nationwide, and Erie, include clauses that exclude coverage for deaths that occur while engaging in high-risk professions or activities. This can include jobs like firefighting, logging, or flying as a private pilot. These exclusions are often buried in the fine print and can easily be overlooked when purchasing life insurance. If the insured passes away as a result of an accident related to their high-risk occupation or hobby, the insurer may deny the claim. In Rhode Island, where some industries involve high-risk jobs due to the state’s economy, beneficiaries may not be aware of these exclusions until it’s too late.

Beneficiary disputes can also complicate life insurance claims in Rhode Island. In some cases, multiple individuals may believe they are the rightful beneficiary of a policy, especially when the policyholder failed to update their beneficiary designations after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. Companies like Guardian, American National, and CUNA Mutual might find themselves stuck in the middle of a dispute between family members or ex-spouses, each of whom has a claim to the death benefit. If the policyholder had not properly updated their beneficiary information, the insurer may be forced to hold the funds until the dispute is resolved. These situations can lead to a lengthy and stressful process for the beneficiaries, who may feel that they are being denied the benefits they are rightfully owed.

One of the most serious legal challenges in such cases is the possibility of an interpleader lawsuit. Life insurance companies such as Lincoln Benefit, Principal, and Kemper may file an interpleader action when there are conflicting claims on the death benefit. This lawsuit allows the insurer to deposit the death benefit with the court and let a judge determine who is the rightful beneficiary. While this can seem like a neutral approach, it often results in a long and expensive legal process, leaving beneficiaries in a state of limbo while the case is adjudicated. Interpleader lawsuits are an unfortunate reality for those in Rhode Island who find themselves caught up in such disputes, and it’s important to understand that the insurer’s role is only to resolve the issue of who is entitled to the proceeds, not to make a decision about the fairness of the claims.

For beneficiaries who feel their claim was unjustly denied or delayed, the first step is to thoroughly review the life insurance policy to understand any exclusions, limitations, or clauses that might apply. In some cases, filing an appeal or seeking a legal remedy through a lawsuit might be necessary. Rhode Island’s laws offer protections for beneficiaries who are wrongfully denied the death benefit, and an experienced attorney can help them fight for the benefits they are owed. The legal process can be complex, but with the right support, beneficiaries may be able to secure a favorable outcome, even in the face of obscure and complicated denial reasons.

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in Rhode Island, you can visit the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation's Insurance Division. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.