The most well-known resource in this area is the life insurance policy locator service provided by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). This locator includes policies from over 600 insurance companies and is free to use.
Individuals who believe they are a named beneficiary on a life insurance policy or are representatives of the deceased person can use this service to submit a search request.
To complete the search request, you will need a certified death certificate for the deceased, which you can get through the funeral home or vital statistics office.
Submitting A Policy Locator Request
To submit a request, you need to:
- Set up a personal account using your email address and password
- Provide the deceased’s social security number, first and last name, date of birth, and date of death
- Provide proof of your identity
The more information you provide about the deceased, the more likely the search will successfully find annuities and other life insurance policies that you did not know existed!
Thinking Ahead: Making It Easier On Your Family
How Do I Get Proof Of My Life Insurance?
The process for obtaining proof of your life insurance varies depending on the insurer. Generally, you can access documents related to your life insurance online or via mail. If you’re unsure how to access your documentation, the first step is to contact your insurer directly. Many will have a customer service department you can call to discuss your situation and find out how to access your documentation.
It is important to note that all life insurance policies come with a certificate of insurance, which verifies the policy and details your coverage. This certificate is typically sent to you after you purchase your policy and is the primary source of proof.
In addition to the certificate of insurance, your insurer may also issue you other accompanying documents, such as a policy summary and a policy explanation. You can sometimes access these documents online, through your insurer’s website. If you are unable to find the documents online, you can always contact your insurer for assistance.
Who Signs A Life Insurance Policy?
The policy owner and the insured are the two parties that sign a life insurance policy.
The policy owner is typically the person who pays the premiums. The insured is the person whose death triggers the payment of the policy’s death benefit.
For the policy to be valid, both parties must sign the policy documents to acknowledge that they understand the terms and conditions of the policy, as well as any riders or endorsements associated with it.
Conclusion
Whether you use your loved ones’ financial advisors, your state insurance commissioner’s office, unclaimed property administrators, or the NAIC’s excellent policy search tool, we wish you the best on your search!