Life Insurance Lawyer Washington

Experienced Life Insurance Lawyers Washington State: The Lassen Law Firm Life insurance claims in Washington State can be difficult to manage, especially when dealing with denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to assisting individuals and families across the Evergreen State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, Bellevue, or any other part of Washington, we provide expert legal guidance and personalized support every step of the way.

As nationally recognized life insurance attorneys, we’ve successfully handled cases across all 50 states, with hundreds of millions in policies recovered for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we combine legal expertise, commitment, and compassionate 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.

Washington State denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim in Washington was denied?
If your life insurance claim was denied in Washington, the best step is to contact a Washington life insurance lawyer immediately. Many denials are legally challengeable, but you need an experienced attorney to preserve your rights and fight back effectively.
What should I do if I was served with a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in Washington?
If you’ve been served with a life insurance interpleader in Washington, you need legal representation. These lawsuits can result in the loss of benefits if not properly handled. A Washington life insurance attorney can help protect your claim.
Can I get legal help with a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Washington?
Yes, our Washington life insurance law firm regularly handles disputes involving ex-spouses, adult children, step-relatives, and suspicious beneficiary changes. We’ll work to enforce your rights as the rightful beneficiary under Washington law.
Why would a Washington accidental death life insurance claim be denied?
Accidental death claims in Washington are often denied when the insurer claims the death was caused by a health condition or alcohol, both of which may be listed as exclusions. We investigate and fight back when these denials are unjustified.
Can policy lapse be a valid reason for life insurance denial in Washington?
Yes, but not always. In Washington, policies can be reinstated or extended depending on grace period rules and whether proper notice was given. We often dispute lapse-related denials and recover benefits successfully.
Is misrepresentation on an application a valid reason for denial in Washington?
Washington insurers often claim misrepresentation to rescind a policy. However, we challenge these denials if the misstatement was minor, unintentional, or unrelated to the cause of death.
Can a Washington life insurance policy be denied due to alcohol exclusion?
Yes, some Washington policies contain alcohol exclusions. Still, our attorneys often dispute whether alcohol actually caused the death or whether the exclusion was clearly applicable under Washington insurance law.
What can I do about a bad faith ERISA life insurance denial in Washington?
Under ERISA, which governs most employer-provided life insurance in Washington, you get only one appeal. Our Washington life insurance lawyers know how to craft winning appeals that stand up in court if necessary.
How should I handle a contestability period claim denial in Washington?
If your Washington claim was denied during the contestability period, don’t assume the denial is final. We evaluate whether the misstatement was material and whether the insurer acted in bad faith.
What if my denial letter cites Washington state law as the reason?
Insurers sometimes misuse or misstate Washington law when denying claims. A skilled Washington life insurance attorney can determine whether the denial is legally valid or challengeable.
Which life insurance companies deny the most claims in Washington?
Symetra Life Insurance Company in Bellevue is frequently mentioned in Washington claim disputes. However, any insurer can deny valid claims. We hold all companies accountable regardless of location.
Does Washington law automatically revoke an ex-spouse's beneficiary status after divorce?
Yes. In Washington, an ex-spouse is removed as beneficiary unless the insured reaffirmed their designation after the divorce. We handle complex ex-spouse beneficiary disputes across the state.
Is Washington a community property state, and how does that affect life insurance?
Yes, Washington is a community property state. If premiums were paid with marital assets, a surviving spouse may have a claim to part of the life insurance benefit, even if not named as a beneficiary.
Can a will override a life insurance beneficiary in Washington?
No, Washington law does not allow a will to override a policy’s named beneficiary. However, we may be able to challenge the designation if fraud, coercion, or mistake occurred.
How much does a Washington life insurance attorney cost?
Our Washington life insurance lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we recover benefits for you. No win, no fee.
What if the insured died while outside of the U.S. and the claim was denied in Washington?
Washington policies may deny foreign death claims, but exclusions are often unclear or unenforceable. We’ve helped many clients recover benefits despite denials tied to overseas deaths.
What happens if the beneficiary designation was changed shortly before the insured’s death in Washington?
Last-minute beneficiary changes in Washington can be disputed if there’s concern over mental capacity, fraud, or undue influence. Our attorneys investigate and litigate to protect rightful beneficiaries.
What can I do if my Washington life insurance claim is delayed for an unreasonable amount of time?
Delays without valid reasons can be considered bad faith in Washington. We pressure insurers to make prompt decisions and seek additional compensation when delays are unlawful.
Can a Washington AD&D claim be denied by labeling the death as natural causes?
Yes, insurers often deny AD&D claims by calling the death natural rather than accidental. We work with experts to prove the cause of death and ensure you receive the benefit you’re owed.
What if a Washington insurance agent filled out the application incorrectly?
In Washington, insurers may still be liable if an agent made an error or misled the policyholder. We challenge denials based on agent mistakes and fight for full recovery.
What is considered bad faith in a Washington life insurance claim denial?
Bad faith includes denying a claim without proper investigation, failing to communicate, or misrepresenting policy language. In Washington, victims of bad faith may recover extra damages beyond the death benefit.
Can I appeal a life insurance denial in Washington during the contestability period?
Yes, you can and should. Even if the denial occurred during the contestability period in Washington, it must meet strict legal standards. We frequently overturn these types of denials.
Are group life insurance claims harder to win under ERISA in Washington?
ERISA policies are more restrictive, but we have extensive experience handling these claims in Washington. From administrative appeals to federal lawsuits, we protect your right to benefits.
What happens if there’s no beneficiary listed on a Washington life insurance policy?
If a policy in Washington has no named beneficiary, the benefit may go to the estate or follow default statutory rules. We assist families in navigating probate and legal procedures.
Can I challenge a suspicious beneficiary change in Washington?
Yes. If the change appears to have been made under pressure or without capacity, we may be able to get the designation reversed in a Washington court.
Do insurers in Washington have to give notice before canceling a policy?
Yes. Washington law requires insurers to provide proper notice before terminating coverage. If that notice wasn’t sent, the policy may still be in force, and we can dispute a denial.
How are union or association life insurance policies handled in Washington?
Union-based or association life insurance plans in Washington often have complex terms. We analyze these contracts carefully and challenge wrongful denials on your behalf.
Can multiple parties claim the same life insurance benefit in Washington?
Yes, and when that happens, the insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit in a Washington court. We represent clients in these disputes and help recover their rightful share.
What happens if the insured was missing and later declared dead in Washington?
In Washington, once the court issues a death declaration, you can proceed with the claim. We help families gather evidence and secure benefits after long-term missing person situations.
What are the appeal deadlines for life insurance denials in Washington?
ERISA policies in Washington generally require appeals within 180 days. Non-ERISA policies may follow different timelines. Contact us right away to avoid missing your window to appeal.
Can verbal promises about life insurance be enforced in Washington?
No, verbal promises are not enforceable under Washington law. Only the written beneficiary designation controls unless there's proven fraud or legal grounds for reformation.
Are life insurance proceeds protected from creditors in Washington?
In most cases, yes. Life insurance benefits payable to a named beneficiary in Washington are protected from creditors. However, if the benefit goes to the estate, creditors may file claims.
Can unclear or vague language in a life insurance policy lead to denial in Washington?
Yes, but Washington law requires that ambiguities be interpreted in favor of coverage. If vague language was used to deny your claim, we may be able to reverse that decision.
Can a lapsed policy still be contested and reinstated in Washington?
Yes, especially if the insurer failed to send proper lapse notices. Our Washington attorneys often challenge lapse-related denials and recover benefits for families.
What if the insurance company says the policy was canceled for non-payment in Washington?
We examine whether the insurer followed all Washington notice and grace period requirements. If not, we may be able to reinstate the policy and force a payout.
Can a child in Washington receive life insurance proceeds?
Yes, but minors cannot directly control funds. In Washington, a guardian or trust is usually required. We assist families in setting up proper legal mechanisms.
What if a Washington life insurance claim is denied based on fraud accusations?
Fraud must be proven, not merely claimed. In Washington, we force insurers to back up fraud allegations with evidence or face legal consequences for a bad faith denial.
Can a life insurance dispute be resolved without court in Washington?
Yes. Many Washington life insurance disputes are settled through negotiation or mediation. We aim to resolve claims quickly while always being prepared for trial if needed.
What if a beneficiary form was filled out but never submitted in Washington?
Only submitted and accepted changes are valid in Washington. If a change wasn’t properly filed, we explore options like equitable reformation if the insured’s intent was clear.
Are older Washington life insurance policies still enforceable?
Yes. Many older policies remain valid in Washington if premiums were paid or the policy was paid up. We assist in recovering benefits from long-forgotten policies.
How do I prove I'm the rightful life insurance beneficiary in Washington?
We collect evidence, policy documents, and witness statements to prove your claim. Our Washington life insurance lawyers present a strong case to secure the benefit.
What if I was unfairly left off a life insurance policy in Washington?
If you were excluded due to fraud, coercion, or mistake, we may ask a Washington court to reform the policy or reassign the benefit to reflect the insured’s actual intent.

2025 Washington Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

In 2025, numerous life insurance claim denials in Washington were successfully contested through meticulous legal action, highlighting the complexities and critical need for expert representation:

Genworth's denial related to COVID-19 was successfully challenged, securing a favorable settlement of $138,000 by clarifying policy terms regarding pandemic coverage.
Athene Life faced scrutiny after improperly lapsing a client's policy, resulting in a beneficial settlement of $52,000 upon proving insufficient lapse notification.
Principal Life’s coronavirus-related claim denial was contested and reversed, awarding beneficiaries $105,000 by demonstrating ambiguous pandemic exclusion language.
American United’s sickness exclusion denial was successfully appealed, securing $61,000 through clarification of ambiguous terms in the policy.
Great West’s denial based on a lapsed policy was resolved favorably, recovering $109,000 after demonstrating administrative errors.
A significant Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) claim denial was successfully contested, resulting in an $839,000 recovery by proving unclear accidental death terms.
TIAA’s felony exclusion denial was successfully resolved, securing $303,000 after demonstrating misapplication of criminal exclusions.
An AD&D claim involving high blood alcohol content (BAC) denial was successfully contested, resulting in a substantial $910,000 recovery after establishing alcohol did not cause death directly.
A denial of an SGLI claim involving disputed beneficiaries was resolved favorably, awarding $407,540 by clarifying rightful entitlement.
Ethos Life’s suicide/self-inflicted injury denial was successfully overturned, securing $11,000 by highlighting policy language ambiguities.
Wilton Life’s denial due to smoking listed in medical records was contested successfully, securing $85,000 by challenging underwriting procedures.
Country Financial’s material misrepresentation denial was overturned, securing $10,000 by proving lack of intentional deception.
A successful challenge against iA Financial’s denial for incorrect age listed on an application resulted in a $35,000 settlement after establishing clerical errors.
Chubb Life’s interpleader lawsuit involving beneficiary disputes was successfully resolved, awarding $94,000 clearly establishing rightful beneficiaries.
Kemper Life’s denial due to three missed payments was overturned, resulting in a $73,000 recovery after highlighting insurer procedural errors.
Columbian Mutual’s self-inflicted injury denial was successfully appealed, securing $80,000 by clarifying policy terms around accidental death.
OneAmerica’s denial due to a lapse from automatic bank deduction failures was successfully contested, recovering $12,000 by proving administrative mistakes.
AARP’s attempted post-death policy termination was successfully challenged, securing a favorable $101,300 settlement by demonstrating improper insurer actions.
A mass shooting-related claim denial in Washington was overturned, awarding beneficiaries $142,000 through clarification of policy exclusions around violent crimes.
Liberty Mutual’s interpleader case was resolved favorably, awarding $513,000 after clearly identifying rightful beneficiaries.
West Coast Life’s denial under alcohol exclusion clauses was successfully contested, recovering $227,000 after demonstrating alcohol was not the primary cause of death.
Prudential's denial involving accidental death under an AD&D policy was overturned, securing a favorable settlement of $348,000 by addressing ambiguities in policy language.
An ERISA-governed life insurance claim denial was successfully appealed through a compelling legal brief, recovering $190,000 by highlighting federal guideline violations.
A substantial Washington denied life insurance claim totaling $3,067,750 was successfully litigated, emphasizing insurer administrative and procedural oversights.
An SGLI dispute between a wife and ex-wife beneficiary was resolved favorably, securing $400,000 by clearly delineating beneficiary rights post-divorce.
Security Mutual’s beneficiary dispute was successfully resolved, recovering $305,000 by confirming clear beneficiary intentions.
Gerber Life’s denial for failing to accept policy premiums was successfully contested, resulting in a favorable $170,000 recovery by demonstrating administrative errors.
A significant Washington denied life insurance claim amounting to $1,240,000 was successfully litigated, revealing insurer missteps and procedural mistakes.
Prudential’s denial due to alleged material misrepresentation was overturned, securing a substantial $330,000 payout by clarifying inaccuracies as non-intentional.
A FEGLI policy denial appeal was successfully resolved, recovering $149,000 by establishing procedural oversights by the insurer.
A Washington bad faith life insurance denial case was favorably resolved with a substantial settlement of $821,000, emphasizing insurer wrongful conduct and negligence.
An AIG accidental death claim denial was successfully contested, resulting in a favorable recovery of $514,000 through litigation highlighting ambiguous accidental death clauses.
Stonebridge Life’s denial involving the contestability period and medical records was successfully contested, recovering $130,000 by addressing insurer errors.
A complex Washington divorce-related life insurance denial of $757,000 was successfully litigated, clarifying post-divorce beneficiary rights.
Transamerica’s denial involving autoerotic asphyxiation death was successfully challenged, securing $426,000 by clarifying policy ambiguities regarding accidental death coverage.

Recent Washington Cases

1. Death During Foreign Travel – Ukraine (Case of Nikolai)

Nikolai, a 58-year-old engineer, had a $700,000 life insurance policy. He frequently traveled for work, including trips to Eastern Europe. During a visit to Ukraine, he suffered a fatal heart attack. When his wife, Daria, filed a claim, the insurer denied it, citing a policy exclusion for deaths occurring in "high-risk" countries.

Daria consulted a top life insurance attorney, who reviewed the policy. While some policies exclude deaths in war zones or countries under travel advisories, Ukraine was not explicitly listed as a restricted destination at the time of Nikolai’s death.

2. Auto-Erotic Death – Belt Around Neck vs. Suicide (Case of Dominic)

Dominic, a 47-year-old entrepreneur, was found deceased in his home under circumstances that initially suggested suicide—he had a belt around his neck and was unresponsive when discovered. His partner, Fiona, filed a claim under his $850,000 life insurance policy, but the insurer denied it under the suicide exclusion clause, which barred payouts for suicide within the first two years of the policy.

Fiona, believing this was not a suicide, retained a top life insurance law firm. The lawyer working the case hired a forensic pathologist who conducted an independent review of the autopsy. The expert found evidence consistent with an accidental death resulting from auto-erotic asphyxiation, not an intentional act of self-harm.

3. Interpleader – Caregiver Changed Beneficiary (Case of Marisol)

Marisol, an 81-year-old retired schoolteacher, had a $275,000 life insurance policy naming her niece, Isabella, as the beneficiary. However, shortly before her passing, Marisol’s live-in caregiver, Lorna, had her name added as the new beneficiary. When Isabella attempted to claim the policy, she was notified that Lorna had already filed, triggering an interpleader lawsuit.

Suspicious of undue influence, Isabella hired a life insurance attorney who investigated the timeline of the beneficiary change. Medical records revealed that Marisol had been diagnosed with dementia at the time of the change. Additionally, bank records showed suspicious withdrawals and financial transactions benefiting Lorna.

4. Misrepresentation – Undisclosed Diabetes (Case of Elias)

Elias, a 62-year-old barista, had a $100,000 life insurance policy. When he passed away from complications related to diabetes, his son, Matteo, filed a claim. The insurer denied it, citing material misrepresentation, claiming that Elias had failed to disclose his diabetes diagnosis on his application.

Matteo hired a life insurance attorney who obtained Elias’s medical records, which showed that while Elias had elevated blood sugar levels, he had never been formally diagnosed with diabetes before the policy was issued.

5. AD&D Claim – Prescription Drug Contributed to Death (Case of Anika)

Anika, a 39-year-old graphic designer, died in a car accident. Her family filed a claim under her Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policy, expecting a payout. However, the insurer denied the claim, arguing that Anika had prescription medication in her system at the time of death and that it contributed to the accident, thus voiding the policy under an intoxication or substance use exclusion.

Her husband, Darius, retained a life insurance law firm which fought the decision. A toxicology report showed that Anika had been taking a legally prescribed anxiety medication, but at a therapeutic dose well within prescribed limits. Her doctor provided testimony confirming that the medication would not have impaired her ability to drive.

6. Death During Three-Month Policy Lapse (Case of Victor)

Victor, a 71-year-old retired military veteran, had a $210,000 life insurance policy. Due to financial hardship, he missed several premium payments, causing his policy to lapse. Three months later, he passed away unexpectedly. His daughter, Sabrina, attempted to file a claim but was denied because the policy was no longer active at the time of death.

Sabrina hired a life insurance lawyer who investigated the policy lapse. The legal team discovered that the insurer had failed to provide proper lapse notifications, as required by state law.

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