After a loved one passes, finding a compassionate funeral home to assist you with funeral arrangements is a top priority. Once you’ve celebrated your relative’s life with a heartfelt memorial service, it’s natural to have questions regarding life insurance. Here’s some helpful information on claiming life insurance to ensure the process is seamless and allows you time to be with family and cope with your grief. 

4 Steps for Claiming Life Insurance Following a Loved One’s Passing

1. Find Policy Details

The first step in the process is successfully locating your loved one’s policy details. Many families elect to store these documents in safety deposit boxes, locked drawers in offices, alongside their will, or with lawyers. Ask your family members to make sure you acquire the necessary paperwork and policy number. 

2. Contact the Insurance Agent

Once you have the details in hand, reach out to the insurance company, and connect with an agent. This individual should be able to assist with every step of the process and can also provide a list of information you’ll need in order to receive your loved one’s benefit. During these conversations, your agent will provide you with various claim forms to fill out. 

3. Secure the Death Certificate

In addition to filling out insurance claim forms, the insurance agent will need to see your loved one’s death certificate. If you’re unsure of how to acquire copies of this document, don’t hesitate to reach out to your funeral director for guidance and support. 

4. Complete & Submit Claim Forms

Once you have the death certificate, your loved one’s pertinent details, and you’ve decided on how the insurance money should be paid out, whether it be installments or a lump sum, submit this documentation and the completed claim forms to your insurance agent. They’ll review your submission and reach out if there are any issues or discrepancies. Depending on the insurance company, you should have an update and payment released in less than a few weeks. 

If you are looking for a compassionate funeral home that goes above and beyond to ensure that every client is supported, Robert W. Waid Funeral Home can help. The team is ready to provide heartfelt service in your time of need. With two locations and over 100 years of experience, families throughout Northern Pennsylvania have entrusted this dedicated staff to make funeral arrangements and plan memorial services. To connect with their funeral director, call today at (814) 724-1021 for the Meadville location or dial (814) 382-3646 for Conneaut Lake. For more information on their rich history serving the community, visit their website.