Proof of Loss Deadline Fact Sheet

Christian Lassen, Esq. | Quoted in The Wall Street Journal | 25 Years Experience Helping beneficiaries nationwide challenge life insurance claims denied for late filing.

What Is a Proof of Loss Deadline?

A proof of loss deadline is the time limit set by the insurance policy or governing law for beneficiaries to submit required documentation after the insured’s death. This typically includes claim forms, death certificates, medical records, and other supporting evidence.

If the proof of loss is not filed within the deadline, insurers may deny the claim, even when coverage should apply.

Why Claims Get Denied for Late Filing

Insurers often deny claims by citing missed deadlines. Common scenarios include:

• Beneficiaries unaware of the deadline due to grief or confusion
• Employer or insurer failing to provide proper notice of filing requirements
• Complex ERISA or federal program rules with short timelines
• Delays in obtaining death certificates or medical records
• Administrative errors by insurers or employers
• Beneficiaries relying on incorrect information from the insurer

What To Do If Your Claim Was Denied

1. Request the denial letter and policy documents immediately.
2. Review the stated deadline and whether proper notice was given.
3. Gather all claim forms, death certificates, and correspondence.
4. Consult an experienced life insurance attorney many denials can be challenged.
5. Act quickly courts and ERISA plans enforce strict timelines.

Your Legal Rights

• Insurers must prove deadlines were properly communicated and enforced.
• Beneficiaries can challenge denials if notice was inadequate or delays were beyond their control.
• Courts often overturn denials caused by administrative errors or insurer misconduct.
• We helped a widow recover $250,000 after her claim was denied for allegedly missing the proof of loss deadline. The insurer failed to provide proper notice of the filing requirement, and we proved the denial was wrongful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is the proof of loss deadline? 

A: Deadlines vary by policy and law — often 30, 60, or 90 days, but ERISA plans may allow up to 180 days.

Q: What if I missed the deadline due to grief or confusion? 

A: Courts may excuse delays if insurers failed to provide proper notice or acted in bad faith.

Q: Can insurers deny claims without sending reminders? 

A: Insurers must follow notice requirements. Failure to do so can invalidate a denial.

Q: Do I need an attorney? 

A: Yes, proof of loss disputes are technical, and legal expertise is critical.

How We Help

• Analyze policy language and filing requirements.
• Challenge wrongful denials based on missed deadlines.
• File lawsuits for breach of contract and bad faith when necessary.
• Secure rightful payouts for families nationwide.

Contact Us

If your life insurance claim was denied for late filing, don’t wait. Deadlines are strict, and insurers count on families giving up. Call 800‑330‑2274 for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.

Key Takeaways

• Proof of loss deadlines are a common reason for claim denials.
• Insurers must prove deadlines were properly communicated.
• Beneficiaries can challenge denials caused by inadequate notice or administrative errors.
• Prompt legal action increases the chance of success.

Written & Reviewed by Christian Lassen, Esq., Nationally recognized life insurance lawyer: 25 years experience, hundreds of millions recovered.  Quoted in The Wall Street Journal ( May 17, 2025).

Last reviewed: Dec 7, 2025 | Contact 800-330-2274