If you are facing a denied life insurance claim in New Jersey, you may be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and uncertain about what steps to take next. At our firm, we understand the emotional and financial stress that can accompany a denial. Losing a loved one is already a painful experience, and navigating a denied claim can add to the difficulty. Our team is here to provide guidance, support, and a pathway to seek the benefits you are entitled to receive.
Understanding Life Insurance Denials in New Jersey
Life insurance is meant to offer financial security to beneficiaries after the death of the policyholder. However, the claims process can sometimes be far from straightforward. Insurance companies may deny claims for a variety of reasons, often leaving beneficiaries struggling to make sense of the decision. Common reasons for denials include allegations of misrepresentation on the policy application, lapsed coverage due to non-payment of premiums, or exclusions related to the cause of death.
While insurance companies have a duty to investigate claims thoroughly and in good faith, their primary interest often lies in protecting their bottom line. This can lead to decisions that unfairly disadvantage beneficiaries. Understanding why a claim was denied is the first step in deciding how to respond.
Steps to Take After a Life Insurance Denial
If your claim has been denied, it is important not to panic. Start by carefully reviewing the denial letter sent by the insurance company. This document will outline the reasons for the denial and may include references to specific policy terms. Gathering and organizing all relevant documents, such as the policy itself, medical records, and correspondence with the insurance company, can help you build a strong foundation for challenging the denial.
It is crucial to remember that insurance companies are required to act within the bounds of New Jersey law. They must follow specific procedures when processing claims, and they cannot deny benefits without a valid reason. If you believe the denial was unjustified, seeking legal assistance can be an important step toward protecting your rights.
Common Reasons for Life Insurance Claim Denials
Misrepresentation is one of the most frequently cited reasons for denying a life insurance claim. This occurs when the insurance company alleges that the policyholder provided false or incomplete information on their application. For example, failing to disclose a pre-existing medical condition or a history of smoking can lead to a denial. However, not all misstatements justify a denial. New Jersey law often protects beneficiaries if the alleged misrepresentation was not material to the cause of death.
Another common issue is the lapse of coverage. Insurance policies typically require regular premium payments to remain active. If payments are missed, the policy may be considered lapsed. However, there are situations where insurance companies fail to properly notify policyholders of impending lapses, which can provide grounds for contesting a denial.
Exclusions in the policy, such as those related to suicide, risky activities, or acts of war, may also be cited as reasons for denial. It is important to carefully examine the policy to determine whether the exclusion is applicable and properly communicated to the policyholder.
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
How an Attorney Can Help With a Life Insurance Denial
Challenging a denied life insurance claim often requires a thorough understanding of both the policy and the applicable laws in New Jersey. An attorney can help by analyzing the denial letter, identifying inconsistencies in the insurance company’s reasoning, and gathering evidence to support your case.
Legal representation can also ensure that the insurance company complies with its obligations. New Jersey law imposes a duty of good faith on insurance companies, meaning they must handle claims fairly and without unnecessary delay. If an insurer acts in bad faith, beneficiaries may have grounds to pursue additional compensation.
Additionally, attorneys can communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf. This can alleviate the stress of dealing with complex and technical arguments while providing you with a stronger chance of reaching a favorable outcome.
Filing a Lawsuit for a Denied Life Insurance Claim
In some cases, legal action may be necessary to resolve a denied claim. Filing a lawsuit can provide an opportunity to present your case in court and seek the benefits you are entitled to under the policy. New Jersey courts take life insurance disputes seriously and will carefully review the evidence to determine whether the denial was justified.
The process of filing a lawsuit involves several steps, including drafting a complaint, gathering evidence through discovery, and presenting arguments during a trial if necessary. While litigation can be time-consuming, it may ultimately be the most effective way to achieve a resolution.
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
Avoiding Future Life Insurance Claim Issues
While beneficiaries cannot control every aspect of the claims process, certain proactive steps by policyholders can reduce the risk of future denials. Ensuring that the application is completed accurately and thoroughly is essential. Misstatements, even if unintentional, can lead to complications later. Policyholders should also keep premium payments up to date and maintain clear communication with their insurance provider. Beneficiaries, on the other hand, can benefit from understanding the policy’s terms and exclusions so they are prepared to address any issues if a claim arises.
If a loved one’s policy has already resulted in a denial, gathering documentation as soon as possible can protect your ability to challenge the decision. Insurance disputes often hinge on the details, so having a complete record can make a significant difference. If the denial was due to a misunderstanding or oversight, an attorney can help navigate negotiations with the insurer before resorting to more formal measures.
Settlements & Verdicts
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Time is an important consideration when addressing a life insurance denial. New Jersey law imposes deadlines for challenging insurance company decisions, so it is important to act promptly. Delaying action can jeopardize your ability to recover benefits and may make it more difficult to gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.
Even if you are unsure whether you have grounds to challenge a denial, consulting with an attorney as soon as possible can help clarify your options and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you are struggling with a denied life insurance claim in New Jersey, you do not have to face this challenge alone. Our firm has experience in helping beneficiaries navigate these difficult situations and seek the benefits they deserve. We understand the frustration and uncertainty that can come with a denial, and we are committed to providing the support you need to achieve a resolution. Contact Trief & Olk today to discuss your case and learn how we can help.