Executor Guide
File Insurance Claims
⏱ 2–8 weeks per claim
Rules and timelines vary by state. This guide covers general steps that apply in most situations.
Consult an estate attorney in your state for specific legal requirements.
What you'll need
- Policy numbers and insurance company contact information
- Death certificate (certified copies)
- Beneficiary information
- Completed claim forms (provided by each insurer)
Steps
- Locate all insurance policies — life, accidental death, mortgage life, employer-provided, and any policies held through associations or organizations.
- Contact each insurance company's claims department directly. Do not go through an agent — call the claims line listed on the policy or the company's website.
- Request a claim form and ask exactly what documentation is required. Typical requirements: certified death certificate, completed claim form, policy number, and proof of your identity as the beneficiary.
- Submit claims as soon as possible — most policies pay promptly once documentation is complete, typically within 30–60 days.
- For employer-provided life insurance, contact the employer's HR department separately — this is often administered through a third party.
- Check for any accidental death riders or supplemental policies that may provide additional benefits.
Tips
- Life insurance proceeds paid to a named beneficiary are generally not subject to income tax.
- If the policy was in force and premiums were paid, the insurer cannot deny the claim due to the cause of death in most circumstances (exceptions apply for suicide within a contestability period, typically 2 years).
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
When to get professional help
If a claim is denied, if the policy is contested, or if the death occurred under unusual circumstances, consult an attorney who specializes in insurance disputes.