Life Insurance | What Happens After I Die?

If you do not sell your life insurance policy, and you should die, the beneficiary you named on your policy must file a claim to collect the death benefit. The insurance company has 60 days to pay the claim or notify the beneficiary.

The beneficiary should get a claim form from the insurance company. The insurance company will need, the name of the insured, a policy number and a certified copy of the death.

The beneficiary will have choice of ways to receive a death benefit. Settlement options could include the following:

• A lump sum payment
• An installment payment usually with interest
• A checking account where the beneficiary receives a check book and can withdraw money when need
• The insurance company could hold the benefits and pay interest

You generally do not have to pay income tax on death benefits.

Get advice from your lawyer or account on this matter.