If you are reading this, it means you are likely going through a challenging situation where a claim for your loved one’s Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) has been denied. This can leave you feeling confused, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. Please know that you are not alone. The feelings you are experiencing are completely valid, and many people in Massachusetts face similar difficulties when dealing with denied FEGLI claims. The process can be overwhelming, especially when the financial security of a loved one is at stake.
We understand that this is a stressful time for you, and our goal is to guide you through this complicated process with empathy and support. At Trief & Olk, we are committed to helping Massachusetts beneficiaries like you navigate the legal complexities of a denied FEGLI claim. With our help, you don’t have to go through this alone. We are here to provide the assistance you need to fight for the benefits your loved one intended for you to receive.
Why Your FEGLI Claim May Be Denied
When a FEGLI claim is denied, it’s essential to understand why. While there can be many reasons for a denial, they typically fall into a few categories. The most common reasons for a denied claim include issues with the policyholder’s coverage, mistakes in paperwork, or disputes over the beneficiary designation. Sometimes, insurance companies may claim that the policyholder did not have valid coverage at the time of their death, or they may argue that the beneficiary is not entitled to the benefits due to legal technicalities. In other cases, claims can be denied due to issues with the way the claim was filed.
In some instances, the denial may result from errors that are outside of the beneficiary’s control, such as mistakes made by the insurance company or confusion over complicated federal regulations. Even though these errors may seem like insurmountable obstacles, there are legal ways to challenge them and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve. Understanding the reason behind the denial is a critical first step in the process of appealing the decision.
Steps to Take After a Denial
When a FEGLI claim is denied, it’s easy to feel like there’s no way forward. However, it’s important to know that the denial is not the final word. There are steps you can take to challenge the decision and potentially have it overturned. The first step is to carefully review the denial letter from the insurance company. This letter will explain why the claim was denied and may offer some insight into what needs to be addressed in order to move forward.
Once you have a clear understanding of the denial reason, the next step is to gather any relevant documents and information that can support your case. This could include medical records, death certificates, the original FEGLI policy, or any communications with the insurance company. Having the right documentation is essential for a successful appeal. In many cases, the denial may be due to a simple mistake, and providing the correct paperwork can resolve the issue quickly.
We contacted Trief & Olk to help us with a life insurance issue and Shelly Friedland was the attorney assigned to our case. Before Shelly took our case she explained to us that the likelihood of our success without going to court was possible but not likely. Unfortunately we did not get the outcome we had hoped for but it was our decision to not move forward and have our case litigated. Shelly is very knowledgeable and was very straight-forward in her assessment of our case as we moved forward. She was very patient and thorough in answering our questions. She always responded in a timely manner and listened to our concerns. We would certainly recommend Shelly and would use her firm again in the future.” - John Ramig If there is any possibility of winning your life insurance case – this is the place to do it for you. They are efficient, honest and will achieve the best possible outcome. Shelly Friedland worked on my case where a life insurance policy had lapsed and was even a few days beyond the grace period. Farmers had rejected my claim twice and was unwilling to take a second look. Shelly was able to get them to pay the entire claim without going to court, and the full amount was deposited in my account within a couple months. Highest recommendation.” - Kathleen Brown Trief & Olk is a superior law firm. Their attorneys and other legal professionals have a brilliant understanding of the law and the litigation process. They diligently perform their work in an efficient, strategic and cost-effective manner to ensure the best possible outcomes for their clients. - Christopher Hughes
If the denial is based on a more complex issue, such as a dispute over the beneficiary designation or an interpretation of the policy terms, the next step is to consider filing an appeal. This is where having an experienced legal team by your side can make all the difference. An attorney can help you craft a compelling case, submit the necessary documents, and represent your interests in court if needed.
How an Attorney Can Help
Navigating a denied FEGLI claim on your own can be overwhelming. The process often involves complicated legal issues and intricate details that can be difficult to understand without proper legal knowledge. That’s where an attorney comes in. An attorney who understands the federal regulations and the intricacies of FEGLI claims can help you take the right steps to appeal the denial and ensure that your case is presented in the best possible light.
An experienced attorney can provide guidance on the best way to approach your claim. They will know how to gather the necessary documents, deal with insurance companies, and file the appropriate paperwork. In some cases, they may even be able to negotiate with the insurer to settle the claim without the need for a lengthy legal battle. Having a lawyer on your side can also help ensure that your rights as a beneficiary are protected, and that you don’t miss any important deadlines or opportunities to appeal the decision.
If necessary, an attorney can help you take your case to court. Although many claims can be resolved through negotiation or settlement, sometimes litigation is the only way to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to. If your claim is taken to court, a lawyer can represent you and fight for a favorable outcome.
20% The annual average number of life insurance claims denied. $50 Million The yearly average dollar amount of claims denied by life insurance companies. .2% The number of claims appealed annually by consumers.Life Insurance Denial Statistics
The Appeal Process
Appealing a denied FEGLI claim is a detailed process, and understanding the timeline and requirements is critical to success. If your claim has been denied, you will usually have a limited amount of time to file an appeal. This timeframe is often very strict, so it’s important to act quickly. Once the appeal is filed, the insurance company will review the decision and may either uphold the denial or agree to reconsider your claim.
In some cases, the insurer may ask for additional documentation or clarification before making a final decision. It’s essential to stay on top of any requests and ensure that you provide all necessary information promptly. The appeals process can be long and drawn out, but with the help of an attorney, you will have a much better chance of success.
At Trief & Olk, we understand how important it is to fight for the benefits that you are rightfully entitled to. We know that the loss of a loved one is already a difficult experience, and dealing with a denied FEGLI claim can make the situation even more stressful. Our team is dedicated to helping you through this process with compassion, determination, and a deep understanding of the law.
If your FEGLI claim has been denied, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your case. Our experienced team is ready to review your claim, explain your legal options, and help you take the necessary steps to appeal the denial. We are here to support you every step of the way, and our goal is to help you achieve the successful result you deserve.
We know that you need peace of mind, and we are here to provide it. Let us help you get the benefits your loved one intended for you to receive. Contact Trief & Olk today, and let us guide you through the process of navigating a denied FEGLI claim with confidence.