For Beneficiaries

How to File a Life Insurance Claim

You were listed as a beneficiary.

What to do when that day comes. Someone who loves you planned ahead so you’d be taken care of. This guide walks you through filing a life insurance death claim, one step at a time.

First, take a breath

There is no need to file a claim the same day. Life insurance benefits don’t disappear while you grieve, and most policies have no strict deadline for filing. Take the time you need with your family, then come back to this page when you’re ready.

Filing a claim is free. You never have to pay anyone to file a death claim, and I’m happy to help you through it at no cost, even if I didn’t write the policy.

How to file a death claim

  1. Get certified copies of the death certificate

    The funeral home usually orders these for you. Ask for several certified copies (not photocopies). You’ll need one for each insurance company, plus extras for banks and other accounts.

  2. Find the policy and the insurance company

    Look for the policy document, premium notices, bank statements showing payments to an insurer, or emails from the company. You don’t need the original policy to file; the insurance company name and the policy number are enough. If you can’t find it, see “Can’t find the policy?” below.

  3. Contact the insurance company

    Call the insurer’s claims department (or contact me and I’ll do it with you). Tell them you’re reporting a death and want to start a claim. Have the insured’s full name, date of birth, Social Security number, date of death, and the policy number ready. They’ll give you a claim number and send you a claim form, often called a claimant’s statement.

  4. Complete the claim form

    Fill out the claimant’s statement carefully and sign it. If there is more than one beneficiary, each person usually files their own form for their share. Attach a certified death certificate and any other documents the company asks for.

  5. Choose how you want to be paid

    Most companies offer a lump-sum payment by check or direct deposit. Some also offer installments or an interest-bearing account. Take your time; it’s okay to ask for the lump sum and decide what to do with it later.

  6. Submit and follow up

    Send everything back by mail, fax, or the insurer’s online portal, and keep copies of every page. Write down your claim number and the name of anyone you speak with. Most clean claims are paid within 30 to 60 days of the insurer receiving everything it needs.

What you’ll need

  • A certified copy of the death certificate
  • The policy number and the name of the insurance company
  • The completed and signed claimant’s statement (claim form)
  • Your government-issued photo ID and Social Security number
  • Your bank account details, if you want the payment by direct deposit
  • If asked: the original policy, proof of your relationship, or court papers (for an estate, trust, or guardian)

Good to know

Can’t find the policy?

Check the insured’s mail, email, bank and credit card statements, and tax returns for payments to an insurance company. Ask their employer, financial advisor, or attorney. You can also use the free NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator, which asks participating insurers to search their records for you.

Is the death benefit taxed?

In most cases, life insurance paid to a named beneficiary is not taxed as income. Any interest added to the payment can be taxable. For your specific situation, check with a tax professional.

Why is the company asking for more information?

If the insured passed away within the first two years of the policy (the “contestability period”), the insurer may review medical records before paying. This is normal and usually just takes more time.

What if the beneficiary is a minor?

Insurance companies generally can’t pay a large benefit directly to a child. The money is usually paid to a court-appointed guardian, a custodian, or a trust set up for the child. The insurer will explain what it needs.

What if there’s no living beneficiary?

If no named beneficiary is alive, the benefit is usually paid to the insured’s estate and handled by the executor or administrator through probate.

How do I avoid scams?

Insurance companies don’t charge a fee to file a claim. Be careful with anyone who contacts you out of the blue offering to “find” or “speed up” a benefit for a fee. When in doubt, call the insurer directly using a number from its official website.

You’re not alone

Let me help you file the claim.

I’ll walk you through the paperwork and talk with the insurance company with you, at no cost. Just reach out when you’re ready.

Message me on WhatsApp →

or email renzo@renzoaurazo.com

This page is general information only and is not legal, tax, or financial advice. Every insurance company has its own claim process, forms, and requirements; always follow the instructions from the company that issued the policy.