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What to Do If United of Omaha Life Insurance Company Denied Your Life Insurance Claim
Facing a denial from United of Omaha Life Insurance Company can be frustrating and confusing, especially during a time when you are counting on life insurance benefits to provide financial stability. While a life insurance claim denial may feel final, it is important to remember that many denied claims can be successfully appealed. If your claim was denied, call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or chat with us live. We may help explain the reasons behind the denial and guide you through the steps to challenge it.
Common Reasons United of Omaha May Deny Claims
United of Omaha Life Insurance Company may deny claims for several reasons. Understanding these reasons can help you determine the best approach to resolving the issue. Common causes include:
- Policy Lapse Due to Missed Premiums:
A policy may lapse if premiums are not paid on time, leading to a denial. Insurers are typically required to send proper lapse notices before coverage is canceled. If United of Omaha did not follow these procedures, the policy may still be considered active, providing grounds to appeal. - Errors or Omissions in the Application:
Claims may be denied if there are discrepancies or omissions in the original application. For example, failing to disclose a medical condition could result in rejection. Providing additional documentation and clarifications can help address these issues and support your appeal. - Policy Exclusions or Limitations:
Life insurance policies often include exclusions that may prevent payouts under certain circumstances. Reviewing the policy’s terms carefully can help determine if United of Omaha applied an exclusion correctly. If the exclusion was misapplied, you may have a valid reason to challenge the denial. - Beneficiary Disputes:
If multiple individuals claim the proceeds or if there is confusion over who the rightful beneficiary is, United of Omaha may delay or deny payment until the issue is resolved. Clear documentation of the insured’s intent can help clarify these disputes and expedite the claims process. - Incomplete or Missing Documentation:
A life insurance claim may also be denied if essential documents—such as a certified death certificate or completed claim forms—are not submitted or are incomplete. Ensuring that all paperwork is accurate and fully submitted can help prevent this type of denial and support a strong appeal if it occurs.
What You Can Do After Receiving a Denial
If your life insurance claim was denied, consider taking these steps to improve your chances of a successful appeal:
- Review the Denial Letter Carefully:
The denial letter should explain why the claim was rejected and provide instructions for appealing. Understanding United of Omaha’s rationale can be crucial for preparing a strong response. - Gather Supporting Documentation:
Collect all relevant records, including:- A complete copy of the policy, including any amendments or riders
- Proof of premium payments
- Certified death certificates and medical records, if applicable
- Correspondence with United of Omaha Life Insurance Company
- Beneficiary designation forms and any recent updates
- Prepare a Comprehensive Appeal Letter:
Address the reasons for the denial directly. Provide additional documentation, clarify any errors, and present a well-organized argument. A thorough appeal can increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. - Consult a Life Insurance Attorney:
If your initial appeal is unsuccessful or if you’re unsure how to proceed, consulting an experienced life insurance attorney can be invaluable. An attorney can identify procedural mistakes, gather further evidence, and advocate on your behalf. - Consider Filing a Life Insurance Lawsuit:
If the denial appears unjust or if United of Omaha acted in bad faith, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit. An attorney can help determine if legal action is appropriate and guide you through the litigation process if necessary. - Contact State Insurance Regulators:
If other efforts fail, filing a complaint with your state’s insurance department may prompt additional scrutiny. Regulatory authorities can examine whether United of Omaha followed proper procedures and may encourage them to reconsider the denial.
Example of a Claim That Could Be Denied
A life insurance claim might be denied if the insured did not disclose a prior medical condition on their application. If United of Omaha later determines that the omission influenced their underwriting decision, they may reject the claim. However, if the condition was unrelated to the cause of death, providing medical records and a clear explanation may demonstrate that the omission was not material. This additional information could help support a successful appeal.
Interpleader Lawsuits and Beneficiary Disputes
If multiple parties claim the same life insurance proceeds or if there is confusion over the rightful beneficiary, United of Omaha may file an interpleader lawsuit. This involves the insurer depositing the policy proceeds with a court and asking the court to determine who should receive them. Providing updated beneficiary forms, correspondence, and other evidence that clarifies the insured’s intentions can help resolve these disputes. Working with an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and sometimes improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
Florida Claims Against United of Omaha Life Insurance Company
For Florida residents, state-specific protections and regulations may apply. Florida’s insurance laws often require insurers to follow certain procedures before denying a claim. If United of Omaha failed to meet these requirements, it could strengthen your appeal. Consulting a Florida-based life insurance attorney with experience in life insurance disputes can help identify potential violations to bolster your case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if my claim was denied due to a lapse in premium payments?
Check whether United of Omaha sent proper lapse notices. If they failed to provide adequate notice, the policy may still be valid, providing grounds to appeal.
Can I appeal a denial caused by errors in the application?
Yes. Providing additional documentation and clarifications can demonstrate that the error was not material to the claim, potentially reversing the denial.
What happens if there’s a dispute over the rightful beneficiary?
Gather evidence of the insured’s intent, including original beneficiary designations and any updates. An attorney can help clarify your position and protect your rights.
What if United of Omaha applied an exclusion incorrectly?
Review the policy’s exclusions carefully. If you believe the exclusion doesn’t apply, submitting evidence that demonstrates this can help strengthen your appeal.
How the Law Offices of Jason Turchin May Help
If United of Omaha Life Insurance Company denied your life insurance claim, the Law Offices of Jason Turchin may be able to help. With extensive experience in life insurance disputes, we can guide you through the appeals process or assist you in taking legal action if necessary. Call us at 800-337-7755 or start a live chat today to learn more.