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Des Moines Life Insurance Attorney

Des Moines Life Insurance Lawyer

Christian Lassen, Esq. | Quoted in The Wall Street Journal | 25 Years Experience

In Des Moines, where Midwestern values meet a thriving cultural and economic center, life insurance is meant to offer peace of mind not frustration. But when benefits are unfairly delayed or denied, families are forced to fight for what’s rightfully theirs. At The Lassen Law Firm, we help Des Moines residents challenge unjust life insurance denials and secure the payouts they deserve.

Whether you're in Sherman Hill, near Gray’s Lake, or anywhere across Polk County, we bring decades of experience and laser-focused legal advocacy to your side. We’ve recovered hundreds of millions in life insurance benefits nationwide and we’re ready to fight for you.

Why Des Moines Families Choose The Lassen Law Firm

Exclusive Focus on Life Insurance Law
We don’t dabble. Every single case we handle involves denied or delayed life insurance claims.

Attorney-Driven Representation
You’ll work directly with Christian Lassen, one of the nation’s most trusted life insurance attorneys, not an assistant or intake clerk.

Serving All 50 States
Whether your claim involves an Iowa-based insurer, ERISA policy, or federal benefit like FEGLI or SGLI, we’ve handled it before.

Contingency-Based Fee Structure
You pay nothing unless we recover money for you.

We Handle All Types of Life Insurance Denials in Des Moines

Lapse or Nonpayment Disputes
We investigate whether the insurer met notice and grace period obligations, often, they didn’t.

Accidental Death Denials (AD&D)
If the claim was denied for alleged drug use, intoxication, or criminal conduct, we challenge the evidence and fight for full payment.

Misrepresentation Accusations
Insurers often rely on vague or immaterial details from an application. We bring in expert analysis to dispute bad-faith denials.

Contested Beneficiaries
We resolve claims involving ex-spouses, multiple claimants, or improperly updated forms.

Group, Employer, and Federal Policies
From Des Moines-based employers to federal workers and veterans, we handle ERISA, FEGLI, and SGLI cases with precision.

Recent Results for Midwest Clients

$287,000 recovered in a lapse case involving a Des Moines public employee group policy

$113,000 paid after an AD&D claim was denied based on a flawed toxicology report

$402,000 secured following a disputed beneficiary case involving an outdated form and an ex-spouse

Contesting a Beneficiary in Des Moines

Life insurance beneficiary disputes often arise when there are questions about a last-minute change, conflicting forms, or whether the policyholder had the capacity to make the designation.

We represent clients nationwide in cases involving:

  • Undue influence or coercion
  • Lack of mental capacity
  • Forged or suspicious beneficiary changes
  • Conflicts between spouses, children, or prior beneficiaries

Contesting a beneficiary designation requires strong evidence and a clear legal strategy. We work to challenge invalid designations and protect the rights of the rightful beneficiary.

Interpleader Lawyer in Des Moines

When a life insurance company faces competing claims or unclear beneficiary designations, it may file an interpleader lawsuit and deposit the funds with the court instead of paying the claim.

We represent beneficiaries nationwide in interpleader actions and life insurance disputes involving:

  • Conflicting beneficiary claims
  • Disputed beneficiary changes
  • Divorce or remarriage issues
  • Allegations of undue influence or fraud

Once an interpleader is filed, the case becomes a legal dispute between claimants. We work to protect rightful beneficiaries and pursue recovery of the full policy proceeds.

Proudly Serving All Neighborhoods of Des Moines and Polk County

East Village

Sherman Hill

Beaverdale

Waveland Park

Drake Neighborhood

South Side

Valley Junction

Windsor Heights

Pleasant Hill and surrounding communities

What You Can Expect from Our Firm

Fast, detailed claim evaluation

Clear communication and direct attorney access

Aggressive appeals and litigation if needed

No upfront costs and zero risk to you

Denied Life Insurance Claim FAQ

Can a life insurance claim be denied during the contestability period because the insured failed to disclose a recent medical consultation?

Yes. During the contestability period, insurers may review physician records to determine whether recent consultations were disclosed on the application. If the insurer believes the omission would have affected underwriting, it may attempt to rescind the policy.

Can a life insurance claim be denied because of an exclusion for certain high risk sports?

Some life insurance policies contain exclusions related to certain high risk sports. If the insurer determines the death occurred during an activity listed in the exclusion, it may attempt to deny the claim.

Can an ERISA life insurance claim be denied because the employee did not complete a required evidence of insurability form?

Yes. Employer group life insurance plans governed by ERISA may require employees to submit evidence of insurability for certain coverage amounts. If the insurer claims the form was never completed or approved, it may deny that portion of the claim.

Can a FEGLI life insurance claim be disputed if the beneficiary designation form lists a name that cannot be clearly identified?

Yes. If the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance designation form contains a name that cannot be clearly identified, the insurer may delay payment while reviewing the documentation.

Can an SGLI life insurance claim be delayed if the beneficiary designation conflicts with another official form?

Yes. If the Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance designation conflicts with other records in the service member’s file, the insurer may review the documents before paying the benefit.

Can a VGLI life insurance claim be denied if the veteran did not apply for coverage within the allowed timeframe?

Yes. Veterans’ Group Life Insurance must be applied for within specific deadlines after separation from military service. If the veteran applied too late, the insurer may argue that coverage never began.

What is a beneficiary dispute in a life insurance claim?

A beneficiary dispute occurs when two or more individuals claim the same life insurance proceeds or when someone challenges the validity of the beneficiary designation.

What happens when an insurer files an interpleader action for a life insurance policy?

When an insurer files an interpleader action, it deposits the policy proceeds with the court because there are competing claims. The court determines which claimant is entitled to receive the funds.

Can a life insurance claim be denied during the contestability period because the insured failed to disclose ongoing symptoms?

Yes. If the insurer believes the insured did not disclose symptoms that would have influenced underwriting, it may attempt to rescind the policy during the contestability period.

Can an ERISA life insurance claim be denied because the employee was not actively working when the coverage took effect?

Yes. Some employer group life insurance plans require employees to be actively at work on the effective date of coverage. If the insurer claims that requirement was not satisfied, it may deny the claim.

Can a FEGLI claim lead to an interpleader lawsuit when multiple individuals claim the benefit?

Yes. If competing claims are made to the FEGLI proceeds, the insurer may file an interpleader action so a court can determine the rightful beneficiary.

Can an SGLI claim be challenged if family members believe the beneficiary designation was forged?

Yes. If someone alleges the designation form was forged or improperly executed, the insurer may delay payment while the dispute is investigated.

Can a VGLI claim involve a dispute between the named beneficiary and surviving relatives?

Yes. Family members sometimes challenge the validity of a beneficiary designation if they believe it is invalid or outdated.

Can a life insurance claim be denied because of an exclusion related to criminal conduct?

Some policies contain exclusions for deaths occurring during certain criminal acts. If the insurer believes the exclusion applies, it may attempt to deny the claim.

Can an ERISA life insurance claim be denied because the employer submitted incorrect eligibility records?

Yes. Administrative errors sometimes occur when employers transmit eligibility information to insurers. The insurer may dispute the claim based on its records.

Can a FEGLI claim be delayed if the insurer cannot determine which beneficiary designation form is the most recent?

Yes. If multiple designation forms exist, the insurer may review the records to determine which one controls before paying the claim.

Can an SGLI claim result in an interpleader action when several claimants assert rights to the benefit?

Yes. When competing claims are made to the SGLI proceeds, the insurer may deposit the funds with the court through an interpleader action.

Can a VGLI claim be denied if the policy lapsed because premiums were not paid?

Yes. Veterans’ Group Life Insurance policies must remain active through regular premium payments. If the policy lapsed before death, the insurer may deny the claim.

Can a life insurance claim be denied because of an aviation exclusion in the policy?

Some policies contain exclusions for deaths occurring during certain aviation activities. If the insurer believes the exclusion applies to the circumstances of the death, it may attempt to deny the claim.

Can a beneficiary dispute delay payment of life insurance proceeds?

Yes. When competing claims or challenges to the beneficiary designation arise, insurers often delay payment or file an interpleader action until the dispute is resolved.

 

Denied a Life Insurance Claim in Des Moines? Let Us Help

You shouldn’t have to fight a billion-dollar insurance company alone. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on moving forward.

Call 800-330-2274 today or fill out our secure contact form for a free consultation.

Written & Reviewed by Christian Lassen, Esq.
National Life Insurance Attorney | 25+ Years Experience
Quoted in The Wall Street Journal (May 17, 2025)
Last reviewed: Jan 3, 2026 | Contact: 800-330-2274

Our FAQ

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 800-330-2274 today!

  • A grace period is the time after a missed payment during which the policy remains in force, usually 30 to 60 days depending on state law and policy terms.

  • No. In most states, insurers must send a written notice of overdue premiums and warn of pending lapse before terminating coverage.

  • The policy may still be enforceable. Beneficiaries can challenge the lapse based on the insurer’s failure to provide required notice.

  • Yes. If the insured dies during the grace period, the policy is still considered active, and benefits should be paid.

  • Yes. In group life insurance policies, employers sometimes fail to forward premiums properly, leading to wrongful lapse denials.

  • Yes. If automatic payment setups fail through no fault of the insured, lapses may be challenged.

  • Some policies automatically borrow against cash value to cover missed payments. Failure to apply this correctly can lead to wrongful lapse claims.

  • Possibly. Some courts excuse nonpayment if the insured was mentally incapacitated and missed premiums without proper notice.

  • No. Reinstatement must occur while the insured is alive, but wrongful lapse denials can still be challenged posthumously.

  • Not without following strict notice and grace period rules. Beneficiaries can often challenge technical denials.

  • Deadlines vary by state, but it’s critical to act within 1 to 5 years depending on the policy and jurisdiction.

  • Not necessarily. Payments mailed within grace periods or accepted by insurers may keep coverage active.

  • Bank records, payment receipts, insurer correspondence, and premium notices are key evidence.

  • If the insurer used an outdated address despite updated information, lapse denials can often be overturned.

  • Possibly. If the insured submitted a reinstatement application before death, it may help challenge a lapse denial.

  • In some states, special grace periods and protections applied during COVID-19 emergencies. They can help fight wrongful lapses.

  • Only if the insurer followed all legal notice and grace period requirements. Otherwise, beneficiaries may still recover.

  • Misapplied premiums can lead to wrongful lapses — and courts often hold insurers accountable for these errors.

  • An attorney can obtain records, challenge improper lapses, negotiate settlements, and litigate if necessary to enforce payment.

Our Clients Speak Volumes

The Right Choice for Your Claim
    Alleged Inconsistencies on the Application
    “Apparently, there were so-called inconsistencies on the application. The insurer used that as an excuse to avoid paying. Thankfully, Lassen Law stepped in and proved everything had been disclosed accurately. Claim paid.”
    - Rebecca M.

Why The Lassen Law Firm Is Different

  • Proven National Results

    With over two decades of exclusive focus on life insurance litigation, we’ve helped thousands of families recover wrongfully denied benefits. Our reputation for fast, strategic resolutions has made us a trusted national resource for complex claim disputes.

  • Recognized Expertise
    Perfect 10.0 Avvo rating endorsed by over 1,700 attorneys; life member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum; ranked among the top 1 percent of lawyers nationally for life insurance litigation.
  • Client-First Advocacy
    No upfront fees: our contingency fee guarantee aligns our interests with yours; we provide personalized, compassionate representation from your initial consultation through resolution.
  • Media & Community Leadership
    Quoted in The Wall Street Journal and featured in leading legal publications; frequent speaker at national conferences; dedicated to charitable efforts supporting pediatric cancer care.

Do You Need a Life Insurance Lawyer?

Please contact us for a free legal review of your claim. Every submission is confidential and reviewed by an experienced life insurance attorney, not a call center or case manager. There is no fee unless we win.

We handle denied and delayed claims, beneficiary disputes, ERISA denials, interpleader lawsuits, and policy lapse cases.

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