Every life insurance claim requires a defined set of information before the insurer can determine whether benefits are payable. Disputes and delays often occur not because coverage is excluded, but because the insurer claims it lacks sufficient information to complete its review.
Understanding what information is typically required helps beneficiaries identify whether a request is legitimate or excessive.
Proof of Death
The foundational document in any life insurance claim is proof of death. Insurers usually require a certified death certificate issued by the appropriate state or local authority.
The death certificate provides the date of death, manner of death, and identifying information needed to match the claim to the policy. Errors or inconsistencies in this document frequently trigger follow up requests.
Cause of Death Documentation
When the cause of death affects coverage, insurers may request additional records beyond the death certificate. These can include coroner reports, autopsy findings, or investigative summaries.
This information is most often requested when the policy contains exclusions tied to the manner of death or when the classification is unclear.
The Complete Policy Contract
A full copy of the life insurance policy is essential. The policy governs coverage, exclusions, grace periods, beneficiary rights, and claim procedures.
Insurers sometimes provide only partial documents or summaries. Reviewing the entire policy ensures that all provisions are accounted for when evaluating the claim.
Beneficiary Identification
Insurers require proof that the claimant is the proper beneficiary. This usually involves identification documents and may include proof of relationship or trust documentation if applicable.
Problems arise when beneficiary designations are outdated, incomplete, or inconsistent with other records.
Premium Payment History
When insurers question whether coverage was active, they may request proof of premium payments. This can include billing statements, bank records, or payment confirmations.
Payment history becomes particularly important when the insurer alleges a lapse or missed payment.
Application and Underwriting Records
In some cases, insurers request a copy of the original application and underwriting file. These documents are most often reviewed when the death occurs early in the policy term or during the contestability period.
Disputes often arise over whether information in these records is relevant to the claim decision.
Medical Records When Requested
Medical records are not required for every claim. Insurers typically request them only when the cause of death or policy terms make medical history relevant.
Requests should be tied to a specific policy provision or investigation. Broad or repeated requests may signal delay rather than evaluation.
Communication History With the Insurer
Keeping records of all communications is important. This includes acknowledgment letters, status updates, and requests for additional information.
Clear documentation helps establish what has already been provided and when.
When Information Requests Become an Issue
Problems arise when insurers continue requesting information without explaining how it affects the claim decision. Once required documents are submitted, insurers are expected to move toward a determination.
Repeated or unclear requests are often the source of claim delays.
How This Topic Fits Into Life Insurance Claim Issues
Information requests are a procedural aspect of life insurance claims. They differ from denials based on exclusions, misrepresentation, lapse, or beneficiary disputes because the insurer has not yet issued a coverage decision.