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Denied Life Insurance Claim in New York City
Can You Fight a Denied Life Insurance Claim in NYC?
Losing a loved one is already difficult, but receiving a life insurance claim denial can make the situation even more stressful. If your claim was denied, you may still have legal options to challenge the decision and recover the benefits you are entitled to. The NYC life insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin have experience handling denied life insurance claims in New York City and may be able to help you fight back against the insurance company.
If your life insurance claim was unfairly denied, call (800) 337-7755 for a free consultation. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.
Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Denied in New York
Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons, some legitimate and others questionable. If your claim was denied, it is important to review the policy and the denial letter carefully. Here are some of the most common reasons insurers give for rejecting claims:
1. Alleged Material Misrepresentation
The insurer may argue that the policyholder failed to disclose important information when applying for the policy, such as:
- Pre-existing medical conditions.
- Smoking, drug use, or alcohol consumption.
- Participation in high-risk activities (e.g., skydiving, scuba diving).
However, not all omissions are legally valid reasons for denial. If the undisclosed information did not contribute to the insured’s death, the denial may be improper.
2. Non-Payment of Premiums (Policy Lapse)
If the policyholder missed payments, the insurance company may claim that the policy lapsed before their passing. However, insurers must follow strict notice requirements before canceling a policy. If the insurer failed to provide proper notification, you may still be able to recover benefits.
3. Death During the Contestability Period
Most life insurance policies have a two-year contestability period, during which the insurer can investigate the policyholder’s application for fraud or misrepresentation. If the insured passed away within this timeframe, the company may look for any reason to deny the claim, even minor errors on the application.
4. Exclusions in the Policy
Life insurance policies often include exclusions that prevent payment under certain circumstances, such as:
- Suicide clauses (within the first two years).
- Homicide investigations where the beneficiary is a suspect.
- Accidental death exclusions (e.g., death caused by drug overdose).
A lawyer can help determine whether an exclusion truly applies or if the denial is improper.
5. Beneficiary Disputes
If multiple people claim the same life insurance benefits, the insurer may refuse to pay until the dispute is resolved. Common disputes arise from:
- Divorced spouses—New York law revokes ex-spouses as beneficiaries unless reaffirmed.
- Last-minute changes—If the policyholder changed beneficiaries near their death, challenges of fraud or undue influence may arise.
- Interpleader lawsuits—The insurer may file a lawsuit asking the court to determine the rightful beneficiary.
How to Fight a Denied Life Insurance Claim in New York City
If your claim was denied, don’t accept the insurance company’s decision without a legal review. Here’s what you can do:
1. Request a Written Denial Letter – This document should outline the specific reason for the denial.
2. Review the Policy Terms – Verify whether the insurer’s reasoning aligns with the actual policy language.
3. Gather Supporting Documents – Collect evidence such as medical records, payment history, and communications with the insurer.
4. Consult a Life Insurance Lawyer in NYC – An attorney can evaluate your case, negotiate with the insurer, and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to challenge the denial.
Why Hire a New York City Life Insurance Lawyer?
Insurance companies may delay, deny, or undervalue valid life insurance claims. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can help:
✔ Challenge improper denials based on misrepresentation or policy exclusions.
✔ Negotiate settlements with the insurer to avoid unnecessary litigation.
✔ File a lawsuit if the insurance company refuses to pay valid benefits.
At The Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we handle life insurance claim denials throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Denied Life Insurance Claims in NYC
Can I Appeal a Denied Life Insurance Claim in New York?
Yes, most insurance companies allow beneficiaries to file an internal appeal. However, appeals can be complex, and insurers may still refuse payment. A life insurance lawyer can help you build a strong case and challenge the denial.
How Long Do I Have to Challenge a Denied Life Insurance Claim in New York?
New York law generally allows six years to file a breach of contract lawsuit for a denied life insurance claim. However, some policies may impose shorter deadlines for appeals, so it’s best to act quickly.
What If the Insurance Company Says the Policy Lapsed?
If the insurer claims non-payment, check whether they sent proper lapse notices before canceling the policy. New York law requires insurers to notify the policyholder and give them a chance to pay overdue premiums before cancellation.
What Should I Do If My Life Insurance Claim Is Delayed?
If the insurer is stalling payment without a valid reason, you may have grounds for a bad faith insurance claim. A lawyer can help push for payment and, if necessary, take legal action.
Can a Life Insurance Lawyer Help With a Beneficiary Dispute?
Yes. If multiple people claim the same policy benefits, a lawyer can represent your interests and help resolve the dispute through negotiation or court proceedings.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Life Insurance Lawyer in NYC?
At The Law Offices of Jason Turchin, you won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there are no upfront costs to pursue your claim.
Get Legal Help for a Denied Life Insurance Claim in NYC
If your life insurance claim was denied in New York City, don’t give up. The NYC life insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Jason Turchin may be able to help you fight for the benefits you are owed.
📞 Call (800) 337-7755 for a free consultation today.