LIFE INSURANCE DENIALS
When a promise of protection is denied.
Feden Law Group offers a personal, practical approach to the legal issues that affect your life.
Life insurance claim denials
A denied life insurance claim can add financial uncertainty to an already difficult time. Feden Law Group reviews denial letters, policy language, and claim records to help beneficiaries understand the available process.
Why a claim may be disputed
01
Application statements
An insurer may contend that the policyholder omitted or misstated information on the application.
02
Contestability review
When death occurs during a policy’s contestability period, the insurer may closely review the application and medical history.
03
Policy exclusions
A denial may rely on an exclusion for a stated cause or circumstance of death.
04
Alleged lapse
The insurer may assert that premiums were not paid or that coverage ended before the date of death.
05
Beneficiary disputes
Competing beneficiary claims may lead the insurer to ask a court to determine who is entitled to the proceeds.
06
Delayed decisions
Some claims remain unresolved while the insurer requests records or continues its investigation.
Policies we review
01
Employer-sponsored policies
Group life insurance offered through an employer may be governed by ERISA and may require an administrative claim or appeal process.
02
Individual policies
Privately purchased policies generally involve state contract and insurance law.
03
Accidental death and dismemberment
AD&D disputes may turn on whether the loss meets the policy’s definition of an accident and whether an exclusion applies.
04
Key person and business policies
A business may need help evaluating a denied claim involving coverage on a key employee or owner.
How we approach a denial
01
Initial review
We review the denial, the policy, and the known claim history.
02
Claim file
We identify the records and communications needed to understand the insurer’s decision.
03
Supporting record
The work may include gathering medical records, witness information, expert analysis, and other evidence relevant to the stated denial reasons.
04
Appeal or litigation
Depending on the policy and governing law, the next step may involve an administrative appeal, negotiation, or litigation.
Fees and consultation
We will explain the fee arrangement during your consultation. The appropriate process and available remedies depend on the policy, the claim history, and the law that applies.
A CONVERSATION IS THE FIRST STEP
Let’s find your next step.
Tell us what happened. We’ll discuss whether and how Feden Law Group can help.