Life Insurance Lawyer Wisconsin

Denied Life Insurance Claim in Wisconsin? You’re Not Alone.


In Wisconsin, beneficiaries are sometimes denied life insurance payouts due to alleged misstatements or lapses the insurer claims void the policy. If you're dealing with a denied life insurance claim in Wisconsin, The Lassen Law Firm can step in to contest the denial and work to recover the compensation you deserve.

Beneficiary disputes in Wisconsin often arise when policyholders fail to update designations after major life changes like divorce or remarriage. If you're involved in a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Wisconsin, The Lassen Law Firm can help you assert your claim and fight for the payout you deserve.

When multiple individuals claim the same life insurance benefit in Wisconsin, insurers frequently file an interpleader lawsuit in Wisconsin to have the court resolve the dispute and decide who is legally entitled to the proceeds.

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers Wisconsin: The Lassen Law Firm

Life insurance claims in Wisconsin can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to assisting individuals and families across the Badger State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, or any other part of Wisconsin, we provide expert legal representation and personalized support.

With a nationwide presence, our experienced life insurance attorneys have successfully recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we bring legal expertise, relentless dedication, and compassionate advocacy to fight for justice for every client we serve. Call now for a free consultation to see if we can help you recover your life insurance benefits. No obligation.

Unlike other firms, The Lassen Law Firm exclusively handles denied life insurance claims. With 24 years of experience in this niche, we are recognized as top experts in the field. Our lawyers have earned prestigious awards, including membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and a 10.0 rating on AVVO. No other firm offers the same level of dedication and expertise in denied life insurance cases.

Life Insurance Claim Denied in Wisconsin? We’re Here to Fight for the Benefits You Deserve

Life insurance provides critical support to families during times of loss. Yet in Wisconsin, many beneficiaries are blindsided by wrongful claim denials, prolonged delays, or unfairly reduced payments. If your life insurance claim has been denied, you don't have to navigate the situation alone. Our Wisconsin life insurance attorneys are ready to step in, protect your rights, and fight for the benefits you are owed.

Insurance companies operating in Wisconsin must follow strict laws requiring them to process claims fairly, promptly, and in good faith. When insurers violate these obligations, beneficiaries have the right to challenge wrongful denials — and in some cases, pursue additional damages. We offer free consultations and do not charge any fees unless we win your case.

Understanding Contestability Periods and Life Insurance Denials in Wisconsin

Most life insurance policies in Wisconsin include a two-year contestability period. During this time, insurers may deny claims if they uncover material misrepresentations made during the policy application process. After the two-year period ends, insurers generally cannot deny a claim based on application errors unless they can prove intentional fraud.

Importantly, only material misstatements — inaccuracies that would have impacted the insurer’s decision to issue or price the policy — can justify rescission. Minor errors, unrelated omissions, or innocent mistakes are not sufficient reasons to deny benefits under Wisconsin law.

If your claim was denied based on contestability arguments, a Wisconsin life insurance attorney can review the situation and challenge the insurer's decision.

Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Denied in Wisconsin

Although every case is different, insurers often rely on familiar justifications when denying life insurance claims. In Wisconsin, frequent denial reasons include:

  • Alleged Misrepresentations in the Application: Claims that the insured failed to disclose a health condition, tobacco use, or high-risk activities.

  • Policy Lapse Due to Nonpayment: Insurers may assert a lapse defense, but Wisconsin law requires proper notice and compliance with mandatory grace periods.

  • Exclusions for Specific Causes of Death: Deaths connected to suicide (within the exclusion window), illegal acts, or hazardous hobbies may trigger exclusions based on the policy terms.

  • Beneficiary Disputes: Conflicts between family members, claims involving outdated beneficiary designations, or allegations of undue influence can delay payment.

  • Employer Errors in Group Life Insurance: Mistakes during enrollment or policy maintenance can wrongly deprive families of expected coverage.

  • Delays Associated with Death Investigations: While some delay may be necessary for investigation, unreasonable or extended delays violate Wisconsin insurance regulations.

Even if the insurer provides a detailed explanation, many denials can — and should — be legally challenged.

Steps to Take After Receiving a Life Insurance Denial in Wisconsin

Taking decisive action early can make a significant difference. You should:

  • Request and preserve a full copy of the life insurance policy, the original application, and any amendments.

  • Review the denial letter carefully and document the insurer’s stated reasons.

  • Save all correspondence with the insurance company, including letters, emails, and phone notes.

  • Avoid submitting new documents or statements without consulting a life insurance attorney.

  • Contact a Wisconsin life insurance lawyer immediately to evaluate your options and protect your rights.

Wisconsin law also allows beneficiaries to pursue extra damages if insurers act in bad faith or engage in unfair claim practices.

How Our Wisconsin Life Insurance Attorneys Handle Wrongful Denials

When you choose our firm, you gain a team focused exclusively on advocating for life insurance beneficiaries. We will:

  • Analyze your policy, the denial letter, and all related claim documents.

  • Identify unfair claims practices, misinterpretations, or violations of Wisconsin insurance law.

  • Challenge wrongful contestability rescissions, lapse defenses, and exclusions.

  • Manage all communications and negotiations with the insurance company.

  • Prepare administrative appeals for employer-provided group life insurance policies if needed under ERISA.

  • File lawsuits in Wisconsin courts when insurers refuse to pay valid claims.

  • Pursue additional damages where insurers act in bad faith in violation of Wisconsin law.

Our mission is to recover the full life insurance proceeds your family deserves — and to hold insurance companies accountable when they act unfairly or illegally.

Wisconsin Denied Life Insurance Claims: Answers to Common Questions

What Should I Do If My Life Insurance Claim Was Denied in Wisconsin?

If your life insurance claim was denied in Wisconsin, you should contact a Wisconsin life insurance attorney immediately. Deadlines are strict, and professional legal help can prevent you from losing your right to recover benefits.

What If I Was Served With a Life Insurance Interpleader Lawsuit in Wisconsin?

If you're served with an interpleader lawsuit in Wisconsin, the insurer is asking the court to decide who receives the payout. You need a skilled Wisconsin life insurance lawyer to protect your interests and defend your claim.

Can I Get Help With a Life Insurance Beneficiary Dispute in Wisconsin?

Yes. Our Wisconsin life insurance attorneys handle disputes involving ex-spouses, children, and last-minute beneficiary changes. We work to establish your rightful claim under Wisconsin law.

Why Would a Wisconsin Accidental Death Life Insurance Claim Be Denied?

AD&D claims in Wisconsin are often denied when insurers allege the death was due to illness, alcohol, or natural causes. We challenge these denials with expert evidence supporting accidental causation.

Can Policy Lapse Be a Reason for Denying a Life Insurance Claim in Wisconsin?

Yes, but many lapse-related denials are improper. If the insurer failed to provide the required notices or a grace period applied, we may be able to recover the full benefit.

Is Misrepresentation on a Life Insurance Application Grounds for Denial in Wisconsin?

Only if the misrepresentation was material and intentional. Our Wisconsin attorneys frequently overturn denials where misstatements were irrelevant to the cause of death or policy approval.

Can Alcohol Exclusions Be Used to Deny Life Insurance Claims in Wisconsin?

Yes, but insurers often misuse alcohol exclusions. If alcohol wasn’t the direct cause of death or if the exclusion was vague, we fight to reverse the denial.

What Should I Do About a Bad Faith ERISA Life Insurance Denial in Wisconsin?

ERISA policies allow only one appeal. Our Wisconsin life insurance lawyers prepare complete and persuasive administrative appeals that position your case for success at trial if necessary.

How Should I Handle a Contestability Period Claim Denial in Wisconsin?

During the first two years of a policy, claims may be denied for misstatements. We show that many errors are immaterial and fight to have these denials overturned under Wisconsin law.

What If My Claim Denial Cites Wisconsin State Law?

Insurers sometimes misinterpret Wisconsin statutes when denying claims. We carefully examine the legal basis and challenge improper or unsupported denials.

Which Life Insurance Companies Are Known for Denying Claims in Wisconsin?

Companies like Northwestern Mutual, Thrivent Financial, and Rural Mutual Insurance are frequently associated with denied claims in Wisconsin. We hold all insurers accountable.

Does Wisconsin Law Revoke an Ex-Spouse’s Beneficiary Rights After Divorce?

Yes. Divorce in Wisconsin revokes an ex-spouse's designation unless the policyholder reaffirms it afterward. We handle disputes involving this automatic revocation rule.

Is Wisconsin a Community Property State, and How Does That Affect Life Insurance?

Yes, Wisconsin is a community property state. If premiums were paid with marital assets, a surviving spouse may have rights to part of the benefit even if not named.

Can a Will Override the Named Beneficiary on a Wisconsin Life Insurance Policy?

No. In Wisconsin, the life insurance beneficiary designation controls over any will unless there is proof of fraud, mistake, or undue influence.

How Much Does a Wisconsin Life Insurance Lawyer Cost?

Our Wisconsin life insurance attorneys work on contingency. You pay nothing upfront and owe nothing unless we recover benefits for you.

Can a Life Insurance Claim in Wisconsin Be Denied for Death Occurring Overseas?

Yes, but many foreign death denials are improper. We review the policy language carefully and contest exclusions that don’t clearly apply.

What Happens If a Beneficiary Change Was Made Right Before Death in Wisconsin?

Late-stage beneficiary changes can be challenged if there’s evidence of mental incapacity, coercion, or fraud. We thoroughly investigate and litigate these disputes.

What If My Wisconsin Life Insurance Claim Has Been Delayed for Months?

Excessive delays can be considered bad faith under Wisconsin law. We demand prompt claim resolution and pursue penalties when delays are unjustified.

Can an Insurer Deny a Wisconsin AD&D Claim by Labeling the Death Natural Causes?

Yes, but we contest such denials by gathering medical evidence to prove the death was accidental under the policy’s terms.

What If the Insurance Agent Filled Out the Life Insurance Application Incorrectly in Wisconsin?

If an agent made an error, the insurer may still be liable. We challenge denials based on agent mistakes and pursue full payment.

What Qualifies as Bad Faith in a Wisconsin Life Insurance Denial?

Bad faith in Wisconsin includes denying a claim without proper investigation, misinterpreting policy terms, or delaying payment without cause. We seek additional damages when bad faith is proven.

Can a Denied Wisconsin Life Insurance Claim During the Contestability Period Be Appealed?

Yes. Even if the claim falls within the contestability window, we appeal denials based on immaterial or unrelated misstatements.

Are ERISA-Governed Group Life Policies Harder to Win in Wisconsin?

Yes. ERISA policies impose strict limitations, but we have extensive experience navigating ERISA appeals and litigation in Wisconsin.

What Happens in Wisconsin if No Life Insurance Beneficiary Was Named?

If no beneficiary was named, the benefit typically passes to the estate. We assist families through the probate process to recover the funds.

Can I Dispute a Suspicious Beneficiary Change in Wisconsin?

Yes. If the change was made under duress, fraud, or without legal capacity, we can challenge the new designation through Wisconsin courts.

Does Wisconsin Require Insurers to Provide Notice Before Canceling a Life Insurance Policy?

Yes. Wisconsin law mandates proper notice before cancellation for non-payment. We dispute wrongful cancellations based on lack of notice.

How Are Life Insurance Policies From Unions or Associations Handled in Wisconsin?

Union and group policies may be governed by ERISA or contract law. We review these plans carefully and challenge improper denials.

Can Multiple People Claim the Same Life Insurance Policy in Wisconsin?

Yes. In such cases, the insurer may file an interpleader. We represent claimants in court to secure their rightful share of the benefit.

What If the Insured Was Missing Before Being Declared Dead in Wisconsin?

Once a Wisconsin court issues a death declaration, the life insurance claim can proceed. We help families navigate the legal and claims process.

What Is the Time Limit to Appeal a Life Insurance Claim Denial in Wisconsin?

ERISA appeals must usually be filed within 180 days. Private policy appeals may have different deadlines under Wisconsin law. We act promptly to preserve your rights.

Can a Verbal Promise About Life Insurance Be Enforced in Wisconsin?

No. Only written beneficiary designations control under Wisconsin law. However, we may pursue equitable remedies if fraud or unjust enrichment occurred.

Are Life Insurance Proceeds Subject to Creditors in Wisconsin?

If a living beneficiary is named, the proceeds are generally protected. If the proceeds go to the estate, creditors may have claims.

Can Vague Policy Language Be Used to Deny a Life Insurance Claim in Wisconsin?

No. Wisconsin courts require that ambiguities in insurance policies be interpreted in favor of the insured or beneficiary.

Can a Lapsed Policy Be Reinstated and Still Pay Out in Wisconsin?

Yes. If proper notice wasn’t given or reinstatement was attempted, we often successfully argue that the policy remained in force.

What If the Insurer Says the Wisconsin Life Insurance Policy Was Canceled for Non-Payment?

We review the insurer’s compliance with Wisconsin’s cancellation rules. Many denials based on non-payment are challengeable.

Can a Child in Wisconsin Receive Life Insurance Benefits Directly?

Not directly. If a child is named as a beneficiary, Wisconsin law requires a guardian or trust to manage the funds until adulthood.

What Should I Do If My Wisconsin Life Insurance Claim Was Denied Due to Fraud Allegations?

Fraud must be proven with credible evidence. We fight back against denials based on vague, unsupported fraud accusations.

Can a Disputed Life Insurance Claim Be Settled in Wisconsin Without a Trial?

Yes. Many life insurance disputes in Wisconsin are resolved through settlement negotiations. We work toward a favorable resolution while preparing for court if necessary.

What If a New Beneficiary Form Was Filled Out But Never Submitted in Wisconsin?

Only properly submitted forms are valid. We investigate and may pursue equitable remedies if the insured’s clear intent is documented.

Are Older Wisconsin Life Insurance Policies Still Valid?

Yes. As long as the policy remained active or was fully paid up, older life insurance policies in Wisconsin are enforceable.

How Can I Prove I'm the Rightful Beneficiary of a Wisconsin Life Insurance Policy?

We compile policy documents, correspondence, and witness statements to build a compelling case for your rightful claim.

What If I Believe I Was Wrongfully Excluded From a Wisconsin Life Insurance Policy?

If you were excluded through fraud, coercion, or mistake, we can ask a Wisconsin court to set aside the wrongful designation and recover the benefit for you.

2025 Wisconsin Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

Below are examples of Wisconsin life insurance claims successfully resolved.

  • MetLife’s coronavirus death denial was overturned, resulting in a successful $308,400 settlement after demonstrating policy misinterpretation by the insurer regarding pandemic-related deaths.
  • Choice Mutual faced legal scrutiny over an unjust policy lapse, culminating in a favorable $69,000 settlement when the claimant established insufficient lapse notifications.
  • Inter-American's denial due to undisclosed smoking in medical records was successfully challenged, recovering $13,000 after demonstrating insurer negligence in medical underwriting.
  • Effortless Life's denial citing heroin overdose was contested and reversed, awarding beneficiaries $91,000 through evidence of ambiguity in policy language around substance exclusions.
  • Veterans Group Life’s beneficiary dispute involving contested designations was resolved favorably, resulting in a $405,000 settlement clarifying rightful beneficiaries.
  • American United's denial based on the wrong age stated in the application was successfully appealed, securing $111,000 by proving insurer's duty to verify application accuracy.
  • First Capital’s self-inflicted injury denial was overturned, resulting in a significant $229,000 payout by successfully challenging ambiguities in the policy’s suicide and injury clauses.
  • Globe Life’s misrepresentation denial related to health history was contested and settled favorably for $13,000 by clarifying inaccuracies as non-intentional.
  • An Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) denial was successfully challenged, recovering $740,000 by clarifying ambiguous policy terms regarding accidental circumstances.
  • Colorado Bankers’ denial due to incorrect Social Security numbers was successfully appealed, resulting in a $58,000 settlement upon demonstrating clerical errors rather than fraud.
  • Ameriprise’s COVID-19 death denial was reversed, securing $101,000 by successfully contesting unclear pandemic exclusion clauses.
  • Continental Life’s policy termination denial was overturned for $60,000 after revealing inadequate procedural notices from the insurer.
  • Lincoln National’s sickness exclusion denial was reversed, awarding beneficiaries $77,000 by clarifying the policy’s ambiguous sickness terms.
  • First National Life’s claim denial due to lapsed policies was successfully contested, recovering $139,000 after establishing improper lapse notification procedures.
  • An SGLI claim involving an unprocessed beneficiary change form resulted in a favorable resolution of $408,430, highlighting insurer administrative oversight.
  • American Integrity Life’s denial regarding changes made via power of attorney was successfully resolved for $50,000 by proving appropriate authorization.
  • Haven Life’s felony exclusion claim denial was overturned for $21,000 by demonstrating policy ambiguity and incorrect application of exclusions.
  • Family First Life’s denial due to a rejected final payment was successfully contested, recovering $33,000 by showing insurer error in processing.
  • National Life's denial due to two missed payments was resolved for $90,000, highlighting procedural failings by the insurer.
  • Fidelity Life’s denial involving power of attorney changes was successfully challenged, securing a settlement of $49,000 through validated legal documentation.
  • Executive Life’s policy lapse denial was contested and resolved favorably for $30,000 after proving administrative oversight in lapse procedures.
  • A Wisconsin mass shooting-related claim denial was successfully contested, securing a $311,000 settlement by clarifying ambiguous criminal exclusion clauses.
  • A significant $1,572,000 denied life insurance claim in Wisconsin was favorably resolved through detailed litigation, emphasizing insurer procedural failures.
  • An SGLI dispute between husband and ex-husband beneficiaries was favorably resolved, awarding $400,000 after clarifying beneficiary designations post-divorce.
  • Monumental Life’s denial involving autoerotic asphyxiation was successfully contested, securing a $218,000 settlement by addressing ambiguities in accidental death provisions.
  • A substantial denied life insurance claim amounting to $2,384,000 was resolved favorably for Wisconsin beneficiaries after intensive litigation revealing insurer missteps.
  • Fidelity Life’s denial citing material misrepresentation was overturned, resulting in a notable $304,000 recovery after demonstrating insurer inability to prove intentional deception.
  • AARP’s denial due to their failure to accept a policy premium was resolved favorably, resulting in a $146,000 settlement demonstrating insurer administrative errors.
  • Genworth’s denial under drunk driving alcohol exclusions was successfully contested, resulting in a substantial recovery of $329,000 by proving alcohol consumption was not the direct cause of death.
  • A Wisconsin divorce-related life insurance denial case involving $600,000 was successfully litigated, emphasizing beneficiary rights post-divorce.
  • AIG’s accidental death (AD&D) denial involving a vehicle crash was successfully appealed, recovering $427,000 by challenging ambiguous definitions of accidental circumstances.
  • Mutual of Omaha’s interpleader lawsuit involving $318,000 was favorably resolved, clearly delineating rightful beneficiaries and releasing the disputed funds.
  • A Wisconsin ERISA-governed life insurance claim denial was successfully contested, securing a settlement of $285,000 by establishing insurer violations of federal ERISA regulations.
  • Pacific Life’s felony exclusion denial involving alleged criminal activity was overturned, recovering $177,000 by proving misapplication of policy exclusions.
  • A significant bad faith life insurance claim denial case in Wisconsin resulted in a substantial $515,000 recovery, highlighting insurer’s wrongful conduct and procedural failings.

Every denied claim is unique. In Wisconsin, we know how to maximize your chance of recovering the full life insurance payout.

Legal References – Wisconsin

  • Wisconsin Contestability Clause Law: Under Wis. Stat. § 632.46, life insurance policies in Wisconsin become incontestable after being in force during the lifetime of the insured for two years from the policy's date, except for nonpayment of premiums. During this contestability period, insurers may deny claims based on material misrepresentations made in the application. ​

  • Automatic Revocation of Ex-Spouse Beneficiaries: According to Wis. Stat. § 854.15, a divorce or annulment automatically revokes a former spouse's designation as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy, unless the policyholder reaffirms the designation after the divorce or the policy explicitly states otherwise.

  • Community Property Laws: Wisconsin is a community property state. Life insurance policies purchased during the marriage with community funds are considered community property. Upon the death of one spouse, the surviving spouse may be entitled to half of the policy proceeds, unless the policy was purchased with separate funds or designated otherwise. ​

  • ERISA & Group Policies: Employer-provided life insurance policies governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) may preempt Wisconsin's community property laws. In such cases, the beneficiary designation on the policy typically determines who receives the proceeds, regardless of state community property rules. ​

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in Wisconsin, you can visit the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.

The Lassen Law Firm is a national practice focused exclusively on life insurance litigation. Founded by Christian Lassen, Esq., the firm has recovered hundreds of millions for clients in all 50 states. All website content is written or reviewed by Mr. Lassen personally to ensure accuracy and authority.