Insurance Claims Attorneys Serving Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Washington DC

How A Life Insurance Lawyer Can Help Fight A Denied Claim

Claim Review and Assessment: Our first step is to thoroughly review your case, assessing all aspects of your claim and the reasons for any denials or disputes. This comprehensive evaluation helps form the basis of our tailored approach to your unique situation.

Negotiation and Mediation: Many life insurance disputes can be resolved without going to court. Our negotiators strive to reach favorable settlements with insurance companies, which can save you time and stress.

Litigation Support: If your claim cannot be resolved through negotiation, our seasoned litigators are prepared to fight for your rights in court. We have a deep understanding of life insurance laws and can use our litigation experience to present the strongest possible case on your behalf.

Continuous Communication: We believe in keeping our clients informed throughout the process. Our team can help ensure that you understand each step and are kept up-to-date on the progress of your claim.

Areas of Experience in Life Insurance Claims

Our life insurance attorneys have experience which covers a wide range of issues related to life insurance claims:

• Denial Due to Policy Lapse
• Disputes Over Policy Terms and Beneficiary Designations
• Claims to Life Insurance by Former Spouse
• Claims Delayed by Insurance Companies
• Allegations of Fraud or Misrepresentation
• Claims Where No Beneficiary Is Listed

Our Commitment to You

At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, our commitment goes beyond just handling your case. We are dedicated to providing compassionate support during what can be a very challenging time. We understand that behind every life insurance claim is a person or family dealing with loss, and we strive to treat each client with the respect and empathy they deserve.

Get Started with the Life Insurance Lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin

If you are struggling with a life insurance claim, you don’t have to navigate this complex process alone. Contact the life insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin for a free consultation. We are ready to help you review your case and explore all available options for resolution.

Call us today at (800) 337-7755 or submit your case online through our website, and let us help you secure the life insurance benefits you are entitled to.

Florida Life Insurance Attorneys

If you’re facing a life insurance claim denial or delay in Florida, our experienced Florida life insurance attorneys may be able to help you fight for the benefits you’re entitled to. Whether the issue involves alleged misrepresentation, lapsed policies, or competing beneficiaries, Florida law provides protections for policyholders and beneficiaries alike. Our team is familiar with the nuances of Florida’s insurance regulations and the common tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying claims. If you live in Florida—or if the policyholder lived or passed away in Florida—we invite you to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your rights and legal options.

New Jersey Life Insurance Lawyers

New Jersey beneficiaries dealing with denied or disputed life insurance claims don’t have to face the process alone. Our New Jersey life insurance lawyers understand how to navigate both state and federal laws that may impact your case, including ERISA-governed employer policies. Whether your claim involves a delay, denial based on alleged misrepresentation, or questions about a beneficiary designation, our team can review your case and take appropriate legal action if necessary. We aim to help New Jersey families secure the life insurance benefits their loved ones intended them to have.

New York Life Insurance Attorney

If you’re in New York and your life insurance claim has been denied, delayed, or is under dispute, a New York life insurance attorney at our firm can evaluate your case and work to protect your rights. New York’s insurance laws can be complex, particularly when a policy is governed by both state and federal statutes. Our attorneys handle claims involving private life insurance, group policies, and interpleader lawsuits filed in New York courts. Whether you’re dealing with a denied claim after the contestability period or facing a challenge from a former spouse or other beneficiary, we can help guide you through the legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Life Insurance Claims

What is a life insurance claim, and how do I file one?
A life insurance claim is a formal request made by a beneficiary to receive the death benefit from a deceased policyholder’s life insurance policy. To file a claim, you typically need the original policy (if available), a certified copy of the death certificate, and a completed claim form from the insurance company. Once submitted, the insurance company will review the claim and determine whether the benefit will be paid. If you encounter delays or need guidance during this process, legal support may be helpful.

How long does it take to receive life insurance benefits?
Most life insurance claims are processed within 30 to 60 days after the insurer receives all required documentation. However, delays can occur if the claim is contested, additional investigation is needed, or there are issues with the policy, such as lapses in coverage or suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. If your claim has been delayed beyond a reasonable time, you may consider contacting a life insurance attorney for help.

What are common reasons life insurance claims are denied?
Life insurance claims are denied for several reasons, including alleged material misrepresentation on the application, non-payment of premiums, disputes over beneficiary designations, and deaths occurring during policy exclusions or contestability periods. Claims may also be denied if the death occurs under circumstances excluded by the policy, such as suicide within the first two years. If your claim has been denied, you may have the right to appeal or take legal action.

What is a contestability period in a life insurance policy?
The contestability period is typically the first two years after a policy is issued. During this time, the insurer has the right to investigate the accuracy of the information provided in the application. If the company discovers a misstatement—even if unrelated to the cause of death—they may attempt to deny the claim. After this period, most policies become incontestable except in cases of fraud or non-payment.

Can I appeal a denied life insurance claim?
Yes, you can appeal a denied life insurance claim. The appeal process usually involves reviewing the denial letter, collecting additional documentation, submitting a formal appeal, and possibly negotiating with the insurer. If the appeal is denied again, you may have the option to file a lawsuit. An attorney with experience in life insurance claim disputes can help you build a strong case for appeal or litigation.

Who can legally challenge a life insurance beneficiary designation?
A beneficiary designation can be challenged under certain circumstances, such as claims of undue influence, lack of mental capacity, fraud, or improper changes made shortly before the policyholder’s death. These challenges are common in cases involving multiple potential beneficiaries, last-minute changes, or disputes between family members and former spouses. If you believe a designation is invalid, a lawyer can assess your case and help you seek a resolution.

What happens if there’s no named beneficiary or the beneficiary is deceased?
If no beneficiary is listed or the named beneficiary has died, the life insurance proceeds are typically paid to the policyholder’s estate. In this case, the funds may go through probate, and the court will determine how they should be distributed. Probate rules vary by state, and the process can be lengthy. Legal help may be necessary to navigate this situation, especially if the estate is contested.

What if multiple people claim the same life insurance benefit?
When multiple individuals claim the same policy and the insurance company cannot determine who should be paid, it may file a life insurance interpleader lawsuit. This legal action allows the court to decide who the rightful beneficiary is. If you’re involved in an interpleader case, it’s important to have legal representation to protect your rights and present your claim effectively.

Does a divorce affect who gets the life insurance payout?
Divorce can affect life insurance beneficiary rights. In some states, a former spouse is automatically removed as a beneficiary unless explicitly re-named after the divorce. However, ERISA-governed policies (typically those offered by employers) follow federal law, which may still honor a former spouse’s designation regardless of state law. These situations are complex and often require legal interpretation of both the policy and applicable laws.

What is material misrepresentation in a life insurance policy?
Material misrepresentation refers to false or omitted information provided during the application process that would have influenced the insurer’s decision to issue the policy. Common examples include failing to disclose medical conditions, lifestyle habits, or tobacco use. If the insurer discovers misrepresentation—especially during the contestability period—they may deny the claim. In some cases, however, denials based on misrepresentation can be challenged.

Can I still file a claim if the policy lapsed before the insured’s death?
If the policy lapsed due to non-payment of premiums, the insurance company may deny the claim. However, in some cases, there may be grounds to argue that the policy was wrongfully terminated, or that the insurer failed to properly notify the policyholder of cancellation. There may also be grace periods or reinstatement options. A lawyer can review the details to determine if the claim is worth pursuing.

Do group life insurance policies (like those through work) follow the same rules?
Group life insurance policies, especially those provided through employers, are often governed by ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). These policies are subject to different rules than private policies, including stricter timelines and procedures for appeals. If your claim involves an ERISA policy, you’ll want to consult an attorney familiar with federal law and the ERISA appeals process.

How much does it cost to hire a life insurance claim attorney?
Most life insurance claim attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless your lawyer wins or settles your case. This fee is typically a percentage of the recovery. At LifeClaims.com, we offer free consultations, and if we take your case, you won’t pay anything unless we get you results.

What is LifeClaims.com and how can you help?
LifeClaims.com connects life insurance beneficiaries with experienced legal professionals who understand the challenges of filing, appealing, or litigating life insurance claims. Whether your claim was delayed, denied, or you’re facing a dispute, we’re here to guide you through the process. From policy reviews to full litigation support, we aim to help you secure the benefits you’re rightfully owed.