What is the life insurance contestability period in Nevada?

The contestability period is a window—typically two years from the policy issue date—during which an insurance carrier has the right to investigate and potentially contest a death claim if it believes the application contained material misrepresentations.

During the contestability period, if the insured dies, the carrier may review the original application and compare it against the insured's actual medical history. If the carrier discovers that a material fact was misrepresented—such as undisclosed tobacco use, a pre-existing condition, or prior hospitalization—it may deny the claim and return only the premiums paid, without paying the death benefit.

After the contestability period expires, the carrier can only contest a claim based on fraud—a higher legal standard that requires proving intentional deception. Misrepresentation alone is generally not sufficient to void a policy after two years under Nevada law (NRS Chapter 688A).

Inaccuracies that stem from honest mistakes or oversights—forgetting a minor condition or misremembering a date—are treated differently than deliberate concealment of material information. Carriers are required to demonstrate materiality, meaning the undisclosed information would have affected the underwriting decision.

The best protection is complete honesty on your application. Accurate disclosure ensures your beneficiaries receive the benefit without dispute, regardless of when you pass away. Agents in our network can help you understand what information is considered material and how to present your health history accurately.