How do I file a claim on a group life insurance policy?

Filing a group life insurance claim requires working through the deceased's former employer or the group plan carrier — not a personal agent. The process is generally straightforward but requires specific documentation.

Step one: contact the employer's HR department to notify them of the employee's death and request claim forms. If the employee was retired, contact the plan carrier directly.

Step two: gather required documentation — typically the policyholder's death certificate (certified copies), the completed claim form provided by the employer or carrier, and proof of your relationship as beneficiary (marriage certificate, birth certificate, or other documentation depending on the relationship).

Step three: submit the completed claim package to the carrier (typically through the HR department or directly if retired). Most carriers are required to acknowledge the claim within a set timeframe and process it within 30–60 days.

Step four: receive the death benefit payment — typically by check or electronic transfer, income-tax-free under IRC Section 101(a). Nevada has no state income tax on these benefits.

If there is a dispute about the beneficiary designation or the claim is denied, contact the carrier's claims department in writing and consider consulting an attorney experienced in insurance matters. Agents in our network can help with questions about the overall process.