When a life insurance claim is still “under review” after 60 days, something is usually wrong. Most claims do not require that much time unless there is a specific issue, and insurers rarely explain what that issue actually is.
At this point, the focus should shift from waiting to forcing clarity and movement.
Attorney Christian Lassen represents beneficiaries nationwide in delayed and denied life insurance claims.
1. Force the Insurer to Identify the Real Issue
“Under review” is not an answer.
You should request a written explanation of:
What specific issue is being investigated
Whether the claim file is complete
What is preventing a decision
Push for details. If the insurer cannot identify a concrete issue, the delay may not be justified.
2. Confirm That All Requested Documents Have Been Provided
Many delays are blamed on “missing information.”
You should:
List every document you have submitted
Include dates and confirmation of receipt
Ask the insurer to confirm the file is complete
If everything has been provided, there is less justification for continued delay.
3. Stop Open-Ended Communication
Avoid informal back and forth that leads nowhere.
Instead:
Communicate in writing
Ask direct questions that require specific answers
Request written confirmation of status
This creates a record and prevents vague responses.
4. Set a Deadline for a Decision or Explanation
At the 60 day mark, it is reasonable to request a decision timeline.
You can ask for:
A decision within a defined period
A written explanation if more time is needed
Identification of any remaining steps
This forces the insurer to either act or explain the delay.
5. Treat the Delay as a Potential Constructive Denial
When a claim remains unresolved without a clear reason, it may no longer be just a delay.
Warning signs include:
Repeated requests for the same documents
No clear explanation of what is missing
Long periods of silence
Shifting reasons for the delay
At this point, you may need to prepare for escalation, including formal appeal or legal action depending on the policy.
Why 60 Days Matters
While some claims take longer, 60 days is often a tipping point.
By then:
Basic documentation should be reviewed
Key issues should be identified
The insurer should be able to explain its position
If none of that has happened, the delay deserves scrutiny.
ERISA Claims and Extended Review
For employer provided policies governed by ERISA:
Timelines and procedures are important
The administrative record is critical
How you respond during the delay can affect the outcome later
Building a clear record at this stage is essential.
When “Under Review” Becomes a Strategy
In some cases, prolonged review is used to:
Buy time
Pressure beneficiaries
Avoid making a difficult decision
Recognizing this pattern allows you to respond more effectively.
Legal Help With Delayed Life Insurance Claims
A claim that remains “under review” after 60 days should not be ignored.
The Lassen Law Firm focuses exclusively on life insurance disputes nationwide. Attorney Christian Lassen has more than 25 years of experience representing beneficiaries in delayed and denied claims.
If your claim has been stuck in review without clear answers, legal guidance may help move the claim toward a resolution.