A Guide from HQ Law
When a loved one passes away, families often face not only emotional hardship but also financial uncertainty. One of the most common questions we hear at HQ Law is:
“How do I know whether my loved one had a life insurance policy?”
In many cases, life insurance policies go unclaimed simply because survivors don’t know they exist. And even when a policy is located, beneficiaries may face a denied or delayed claim.
This guide explains how to find a missing life insurance policy, how to use the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Life Insurance Policy Locator, and what steps to take if a life insurance claim is denied.
How to Know Whether Someone Had Life Insurance
Life insurance policies aren’t always easy to track down, especially if the deceased kept poor records or didn’t discuss their finances openly. Here are the most effective ways to search:
1. Review Personal Documents and Records
Look through the individual’s:
- File cabinets, binders, or safe deposit boxes
- Email and mail for statements or premium notices
- Tax returns (insurance premiums may be reported)
- Mortgage or loan files — lenders sometimes require coverage
- Employer benefit packets or HR correspondence
- Past paystubs or wage statements, which may show deductions for premiums
Policy documents may look like certificates, annual statements, or letters from insurance companies.
2. Check Bank Statements
Recurring payments to companies like Prudential, MetLife, New York Life, or State Farm could indicate an active policy.
Automatic bank drafts or credit card charges are especially helpful clues.
3. Ask Professionals in Their Financial Circle
Consider contacting their:
- Insurance agents
- Financial advisors
- Accountants
- Estate planning attorneys
- HR representative
These professionals may know whether a policy was purchased — or at least which companies to contact.
4. Use the NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator
If your search hits a dead end, the NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator is one of the most reliable tools available.
Website: https://eapps.naic.org/life-policy-locator/#/welcome
This free tool allows consumers to submit a request to participating insurers. Companies then search their records and, if a match is found, will contact eligible beneficiaries directly. Here’s what you will need to submit:
- The deceased’s full legal name
- Date of birth and date of death
- Social Security number
- Your relationship to the deceased
- Your own contact information
Once you’ve submitted your request:
- Your request enters a secure database.
- Insurers review it and check their records.
- If a matching policy is found, the insurer contacts you directly.
- If no policy exists — or you’re not a beneficiary — you may not receive a response.
- The process can take several weeks to a few months.
Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Denied
Even when a policy is located, claims can be denied for reasons that may seem confusing or unfair. Understanding why denials happen is the first step toward fighting them.
1. Alleged Misrepresentation on the Application
Insurance companies may deny a claim if they believe the insured:
- Failed to disclose medical conditions
- Understated health risks
- Did not report smoking, alcohol use, or high-risk activities
These disputes frequently arise during the policy’s contestability period (typically the first two years).
2. Policy Lapse or Non-Payment
If premiums stop, the policy can lapse — sometimes without the policyholder realizing it. Missed payments, automatic withdrawal problems, or mailing errors often play a role.
3. Excluded Causes of Death
Policies sometimes exclude certain types of deaths, including:
- Suicide within the policy’s early period
- Some hazardous activities
- Undisclosed high-risk occupations
- Deaths caused by alcohol or illegal drug use
4. Beneficiary Disputes
If more than one person claims to be the beneficiary — or if designations were never updated — insurers may delay or deny payment.
5. Missing or Incorrect Documentation
A claim can be rejected simply because documents were incomplete or filled out improperly.
6. Employer-Provided (ERISA) Complications
Group life insurance policies offered through employment fall under federal ERISA laws. These cases have strict deadlines and rules — and insurers often use technicalities to deny claims.
What to Do If Your Life Insurance Claim Is Denied
A denial letter is not the end of the road. Many denials are overturned once the proper evidence and legal arguments are presented.
Here are your next steps:
1. Review the Denial Letter Carefully
Denial letters must state the reason for rejection. Look for:
- Policy provisions cited
- Alleged misrepresentations
- Missing documents
- Deadlines for appeal
If the letter is unclear, request clarification in writing and get in contact with an attorney.
2. Gather All Relevant Evidence
Important pieces of evidence often include:
- The full policy and application
- Premium payment history
- Medical records
- Employment records (for group policies)
- Communications with the insurer
3. Submit a Formal Written Appeal
Every insurer has an internal appeals process. Your appeal should:
- Address each reason for denial
- Cite specific policy language
- Include supporting evidence
- Be submitted before the deadline
For ERISA group plans, appeal deadlines can be 60–180 days and must be strictly followed, or you risk forever waiving your right to claim the life insurance benefits.
4. Consult a Life Insurance Attorney
Life insurance law is complex — especially when insurers allege misrepresentation or when ERISA is involved. A lawyer can:
- Evaluate your case
- Draft a strong appeal
- Communicate with the insurer
- File suit if necessary
- Protect your rights throughout the process
Many attorneys, including our team at hq-law.com offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis for denied life insurance claims.
HQ Law Can Help You Recover the Benefits You Deserve
At HQ Law , our attorneys are experienced in handling life insurance disputes, including:
- Lost policy searches
- Delayed or denied claims
- Beneficiary conflicts
- ERISA group plan denials
- Accidental death & dismemberment disputes
We understand that these cases arise during some of the most difficult moments in life. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most.
If you need help locating a policy or appealing a denial, contact us for a free case evaluation.
Visit us at hq-law.com or call us today.