What To Do if Your Life Insurance Claim Is Denied

Having a life insurance claim denied can be an emotionally draining and financially stressful experience, especially during a time of grief. Unfortunately, denials are not uncommon, and they can occur for a variety of reasons. However, a denial is not the end of the road—there are steps you can take to contest the decision. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, our national life insurance lawyers have experience helping clients navigate these challenging situations. Here is some information to help if your life insurance claim is denied. Feel free to call the life insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 today for a free consultation.

Understand the Reason for Denial

Key Steps:

1. Request a Detailed Explanation: Insurance companies are often required to provide a written explanation of why your claim was denied. This document can be crucial as it can guide your next steps.
2. Review the Policy: Sometimes claims are denied due to policy exclusions or specific clauses. Review your policy documents to understand the terms and conditions outlined by the insurer.

Evaluate Your Options

Once you understand why your claim was denied, you can assess the best course of action. Some common reasons for denial include:

• Lapsed Policy: Often due to non-payment of premiums. If this is the case, check for any grace period or reinstatement rights under the policy.
• Material Misrepresentation: If the denial is based on alleged misrepresentation on the application, gather evidence that contradicts the insurer’s claims or demonstrates that the inaccuracies were unintentional.
• Exclusion Clauses: If the insurer cites an exclusion (e.g., death occurred under circumstances not covered by the policy), confirm whether the interpretation of the policy language by the insurer is accurate and fair.

Gather Supporting Documentation

Collecting the right documents is essential for challenging a denial effectively:

• Medical Records: These can clarify health-related issues if your claim was denied for reasons connected to the policyholder’s health at the time of application.
• Payment Records: If the claim was denied due to policy lapse, documentation of timely payments can prove crucial.
• Correspondence: Keep all written communication with the insurance company, as this can be used to support your case.

Appeal the Decision

Most insurance policies provide a process for appealing a denial:

• File a Formal Appeal: Submit a written appeal to the insurance company. Be sure to include all relevant documentation and a detailed argument against each point of their denial.
• Legal Review: Consider having your appeal reviewed by a legal professional with experience in life insurance claims.

Seek Legal Assistance

If your initial claim is unsuccessful, it may be time to consult with a legal professional who has experience in life insurance claims:

• Hire a Life Insurance Lawyer: An attorney can provide valuable guidance, represent you in dealings with the insurance company, and help prepare for litigation if necessary.
• Understand Your Legal Rights: A knowledgeable lawyer can explain your rights under the policy and state or federal law, which can vary significantly by jurisdiction.

Consider Life Insurance Litigation

As a last resort, you might consider suing the insurance company:

• Legal Suit: If the amount at stake is substantial and the facts are in your favor, taking legal action might be advisable.
• Arbitration or Mediation: Some policies include arbitration clauses, or you might opt for mediation to reach a settlement outside of court.

Conclusion

A denied life insurance claim can be a significant setback, but it’s not necessarily final. Understanding why your claim was denied, gathering the appropriate evidence, and pursuing an appeal may be important first steps. For many, enlisting the help of a seasoned life insurance lawyer can make a critical difference in the outcome. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we are committed to helping our clients challenge unjust denials and secure the benefits they deserve.

Free consultation with a life insurance lawyer

If you need assistance with a denied life insurance claim, don’t hesitate to contact us at Law Offices of Jason Turchin. Our life insurance legal team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of your life insurance policy and fight for your rights. Call us today or chat with our agents to learn more about how we can assist you.