I am the policy holder of my spouse’s life insurance policy. She recently died in a car accident. I am unsure about how and when I can make a claim?
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Answer by Neha Sharma, Hillsdale 2036 NSW
- You should check your policy documents to see what procedure must be followed when making a claim.
- You can make a claim from the date of the incident by contacting the insurance company. Generally the first point of contact is through telephone.
- Depending on the insurance company’s policy you may be asked to complete certain forms and attach supporting documents. Although most companies allow modern forms of communication such as email and fax it is important to comply with the company policies as listed under the policy documents.
- Supporting documents include the:
- death certificate;
- identification documents; and
- medical practitioner report if the claim is for TPD.
- Once the company receives all necessary documentation the claim is assessed and a decision made.
- If the claim is accepted a payment will be made out to the appropriate person. In this case since you are the policy holder you will be entitled to the insurance benefit.