How to Find Someone’s Life Insurance Policy

When a loved one passes away, beneficiaries, executors, or close family members often need to locate a life insurance policy. Many policies remain unclaimed because beneficiaries are unaware of their existence. Identifying such a policy is important for managing the deceased’s financial affairs and securing potential benefits.

Gathering Key Information

Before initiating any search for a life insurance policy, collecting specific details about the deceased individual is important. Obtain the deceased’s full legal name, including any former names such as a maiden name. The individual’s date of birth and date of death are also essential for accurate identification.

The Social Security Number (SSN) of the deceased is important, as many search services and organizations require it. A certified copy of the death certificate is also a fundamental document needed for filing a claim. Additionally, gathering information about the deceased’s last known addresses and any past employers can be helpful, as group life insurance policies are often offered through workplaces.

Utilizing Centralized Search Services

Several national services are available to help locate a deceased person’s life insurance policy. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers a free online Life Insurance Policy Locator Service. To use this service, individuals submit a search request. The NAIC then shares this information with participating life insurance companies, which will search their records. If a match is found and the requester is a designated beneficiary or authorized to receive information, the insurance company will contact them directly, typically within 90 days.

Another resource is the Medical Information Bureau (MIB) Policy Locator Service, which can be accessed for a fee. The MIB database contains records of life insurance applications processed by member companies, which can indicate if a policy was applied for. While this service does not guarantee a policy was issued or remains in force, it can provide contact information for insurers that may have underwritten coverage. To utilize the MIB service, a surviving spouse, next-of-kin, or legal representative submits an application form along with a certified copy of the death certificate. Responses are returned within ten business days.

Examining Personal and Financial Records

Reviewing the deceased’s personal and financial records can uncover clues about a life insurance policy. Bank statements should be examined for recurring premium payments made to an insurance company. Canceled checks or automatic drafts could also reveal payments to life insurance providers.

Tax returns might show interest income from cash value policies or deductions for policy-related expenses, signaling a life insurance contract. Physical and digital mail, including email accounts, may contain policy statements, premium notices, or correspondence from insurers or agents. Estate planning documents like wills or trusts, and the contents of safe deposit boxes, often list insurance policies or provide details about financial advisors.

Contacting Relevant Organizations

Contacting organizations connected to the deceased can yield information about a life insurance policy. Former employers are a primary contact, especially if the deceased had group life insurance coverage through their job. Human resources or benefits departments can provide details on employer-sponsored plans.

Financial advisors, estate attorneys, and accountants who managed the deceased’s financial affairs often have records or knowledge of existing policies. Banks where the deceased held accounts should also be contacted, as they may have records of safe deposit boxes or recurring premium payments. Professional associations or unions the deceased belonged to may have offered group life insurance benefits.

What to Do After Finding a Policy

Once a life insurance policy is located, contact the identified insurance company. Provide the insurer with the policy number and a certified copy of the death certificate. The insurance company will then outline its claims process.

The insurer will provide instructions on how to submit a claim, including any additional documentation needed. This process confirms the policyholder’s death and verifies the beneficiary’s identity. Understanding these steps helps beneficiaries initiate the process of receiving benefits.