Facing a denied life insurance claim in Florida can be overwhelming, especially during a time of loss. When you're relying on a policy to provide financial stability after a loved one’s death, a denial may feel like the system failed you. The good news is that a denial does not have to be the end of the road. There are steps you can take to fight back, protect your rights, and potentially recover the benefits owed.
If your life insurance claim was denied in Florida, you can contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin for a free consultation. Our team can guide you through the appeals process or help you file a lawsuit to challenge the insurance company’s decision. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case. Call 800-337-7755 or visit www.victimaid.com to learn more.
Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Denied
Insurance companies deny claims for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
-
Material misrepresentation on the application: If the insurer believes the policyholder failed to disclose important medical history or other relevant facts, they may void the policy.
-
Lapsed policy due to non-payment: If premiums weren’t paid on time, the insurer might argue that coverage ended before the death.
-
Contestability period issues: Most policies have a two-year contestability period. If the death occurs during this time, the company may investigate the application for inaccuracies.
-
Suicide exclusions: Some policies have exclusions if the insured died by suicide within the first two years.
-
Beneficiary disputes: Competing claims from ex-spouses, new partners, or estranged family members can lead to denial or delay.
Step 1: Review the Denial Letter Carefully
Start by reading the life insurance claim denial letter from the insurance company. It should state the reason for the denial and outline any evidence the insurer relied on. In many cases, the denial letter may be vague or overly technical. That’s where having an experienced life insurance attorney review the letter can help you understand your options.
Step 2: Gather All Documentation
Before challenging the denial, collect everything related to the policy and claim:
-
The original life insurance policy
-
Completed claim forms
-
Communication with the insurer
-
Death certificate
-
Medical records (if relevant)
-
Any notices of missed premium payments
Documentation can be critical. If the denial is due to non-payment or alleged misrepresentation, these records may reveal errors or inconsistencies that could support your case.
Step 3: File an Appeal (If Applicable)
Some insurance companies allow beneficiaries to file an internal appeal before filing a lawsuit. This may involve:
-
Writing a formal appeal letter
-
Submitting new evidence or clarification
-
Providing proof that contradicts the insurer’s claims
Be mindful of deadlines. You typically have a limited time — sometimes as little as 30 or 60 days — to appeal the denial, depending on the policy terms.
Step 4: Consider Filing a Lawsuit
If the insurance company still refuses to pay after an appeal or if no appeal is offered, you may need to sue the insurance company in Florida state or federal court. A lawsuit may allege:
-
Breach of contract
-
Bad faith insurance practices
-
Violation of Florida’s Unfair Insurance Trade Practices Act
Many claims settle before trial, but having a lawyer file the suit can often increase your leverage and chances of recovery.
Step 5: Work With a Life Insurance Attorney
Insurance companies have legal teams working to protect their bottom line. You don’t have to face them alone. A Florida life insurance attorney can:
-
Review the denial letter
-
Communicate with the insurer on your behalf
-
Investigate the claim and gather evidence
-
Handle any appeal or lawsuit
The Law Offices of Jason Turchin has experience handling denied life insurance claims throughout Florida. We understand the tactics insurers use and how to challenge unfair denials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Life Insurance Claim Denials in Florida
Q: Can I still collect if the policyholder missed a payment?
A: Possibly. Some policies have a grace period, and others offer reinstatement options. If the policyholder died within the grace period, the claim may still be valid.
Q: What if the insurer says there was a misrepresentation?
A: We often see insurers wrongfully accuse applicants of lying on their application. In some cases, the alleged omission is minor or irrelevant to the cause of death. A lawyer can help refute these claims.
Q: Is there a deadline to file a lawsuit?
A: Yes. In Florida, the statute of limitations for breach of contract claims is typically five years from the date of denial, but don’t wait — evidence and witness memories can fade quickly.
Q: Do I need to pay a lawyer upfront?
A: No. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.
Contact Us If Your Life Insurance Claim Was Denied in Florida
You don’t have to accept the insurance company’s denial as final. With the right help, you may still be able to recover the life insurance benefits your loved one intended you to have. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis. That means you won’t pay anything unless we recover money for you.
Call 800-337-7755, start a live chat on our website, or visit www.victimaid.com to get help today.