How to File a Life Insurance Claim
If you're reading this because someone you love has died, we're sorry. Filing a life insurance claim is usually simpler than people expect, and you don't have to do it alone. Here's exactly what to gather, who to call and what happens next.
What you'll need
- A certified copy of the death certificate (the funeral home can order these)
- The policy number, or at least the insurance company's name
- The insured person's full name, date of birth and Social Security number
- Your own ID and Social Security number as beneficiary
- A completed claim form from the insurer
Step by step
- Order several certified death certificates. Banks, insurers, Social Security and others each want one. Five to ten copies is typical.
- Find the policy. Look through files, safes, bank statements (for premium payments) and mail. If an agent sold it, they can help locate it.
- Contact the insurer's claims department, or the agent. Tell them the insured has passed and ask for a claim packet. Many carriers now accept claims online.
- Complete the claim form. Each beneficiary usually files their own. You'll choose how to receive the money.
- Send the form and death certificate. Keep copies and note the date sent.
- Follow up. Ask for a claim number and check status if you haven't heard back within a couple of weeks.
How long does it take?
| Situation | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Policy older than 2 years, paperwork complete | Often 1 to 3 weeks after the insurer receives everything |
| Small final expense policy assigned to the funeral home | Sometimes within days |
| Death within the 2-year contestability period | Longer, because the insurer may review medical records |
| Death under investigation or cause pending | Can be delayed until the death certificate is final |
Texas law requires insurers to acknowledge and act on claims within set deadlines and generally to pay promptly once a claim is approved. Late payment can require the insurer to pay interest.
How you can receive the money
- Lump sum: the most common choice
- Retained asset account: the insurer holds the money in an account you can draw from; you can usually withdraw it all at any time
- Installments or an annuity: payments over a set period or for life
Take your time with big decisions. It's fine to park the money somewhere safe for a few months while you grieve.
Can't find the policy?
- Use the NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator, a free national service; insurers search their records and contact you if you're a beneficiary
- Check the Texas Comptroller's unclaimed property search for policies already turned over to the state
- Look for premium payments in bank or credit card statements
- Contact past employers about group coverage
If a claim is delayed or denied
- Ask for the reason in writing
- Request a copy of the policy and the application
- Send any missing information quickly
- If you disagree, use the insurer's appeal process
- File a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance, which helps consumers with claim problems for free
- For large or contested claims, consider an attorney
Is the money taxable?
Death benefits paid to a beneficiary are generally not subject to federal income tax. Interest earned after death (for example, if the claim is paid late or held in an account) is taxable. Texas has no state income tax.
You don't have to do this alone
If you need help finding a policy or filing a claim, reach out. We'll walk you through it, even if the policy wasn't bought through us.
This guide is general education, not tax, legal or financial advice. Product features, issue ages and prices vary by carrier and state and change over time.