What to Do If Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York Denied Your Life Insurance Claim

A denial from Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York can feel overwhelming, especially when life insurance benefits were expected to provide financial stability during a difficult time. While a denial can be disheartening, it’s important to remember that many claims are overturned upon appeal. If your claim was denied, call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or chat with us live. We’ll help you understand the reasons behind the denial and guide you through the steps needed to challenge it.

Common Reasons Lincoln Life & Annuity Denies Claims

Understanding the reasons for a claim denial is often the first step toward building a strong appeal. Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York may deny claims for a variety of reasons, including:

• Policy Lapse Due to Nonpayment:
  One of the most common causes of denial is a policy lapse. If premiums weren’t paid on time, Lincoln Life & Annuity may argue that the policy was no longer in effect when the insured passed away. Providing proof of payment, evidence of financial hardship, or documentation showing the policyholder intended to maintain coverage can often strengthen an appeal. Cancellations generally have to follow a specific procedure which could still provide coverage if the insurance company didn’t comply properly.
• Issues During the Contestability Period:
  Most life insurance policies include a contestability period—typically the first two years—during which claims undergo careful review. If the company finds discrepancies, such as omitted medical conditions or incorrect information on the application, they may deny the claim. Submitting additional medical records, correcting any errors, and providing clear explanations can help resolve these issues.
• Policy Exclusions or Limitations:
  Certain policies contain exclusions that may limit payouts under specific circumstances. For example, deaths caused by certain activities or pre-existing conditions may be excluded. Reviewing the policy terms carefully can help you determine whether the exclusion was applied correctly. If not, you may have grounds to challenge the denial.
• Beneficiary Disputes or Changes:
  If there are conflicts over the rightful beneficiary—such as multiple claimants or recent changes to the designation—Lincoln Life & Annuity may delay or deny payment. Legal assistance can help clarify beneficiary rights and ensure the benefits are distributed according to the policyholder’s wishes.
• Missing or Incomplete Documentation:
  Claims may be rejected if essential documents—such as a certified death certificate, completed claim forms, or proof of beneficiary status—are missing or incomplete. Ensuring that all paperwork is accurate and fully submitted can help prevent or resolve this type of denial.

Steps to Take After Receiving a Denial

If your claim is denied by Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, consider the following steps to strengthen your appeal and improve your chances of a favorable outcome:

1. Review the Denial Letter Carefully:
   The denial letter should explain why the claim was rejected and provide instructions for appealing the decision. Understanding the company’s rationale is the first step in preparing your response.
2. Gather Supporting Evidence:
   Collect all relevant records, including:
   • A copy of the life insurance policy and any riders or amendments
   • Proof of premium payments
   • Medical and hospital records addressing any disputed health disclosures
   • Certified death certificates
   • Correspondence with Lincoln Life & Annuity
   • Documentation confirming your beneficiary status
   A well-organized set of documents can significantly strengthen your case.
3. Submit a Formal Appeal:
   Follow the instructions provided by Lincoln Life & Annuity to file a formal appeal. Clearly explain why the denial was incorrect, and support your argument with the evidence you’ve gathered. A detailed, thorough appeal increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
4. Consult a Life Insurance Attorney if Needed:
   If the appeal process feels overwhelming or if your initial appeal is denied, consulting a life insurance attorney can be invaluable. An experienced attorney can:
   • Identify errors in the company’s reasoning
   • Help you gather additional evidence
   • Represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings if necessary
5. Consider Filing a Complaint With State Regulators:
   If your appeal is unsuccessful, filing a complaint with your state’s insurance department may prompt further investigation. This step can lead to additional scrutiny of the insurer’s decision-making process and potentially a resolution.

New York Claims Against Lincoln Life & Annuity

New York’s insurance regulations provide consumer protections that can help beneficiaries challenge unfair claim denials. Consulting a New York-based attorney who understands these regulations can help strengthen your appeal. Whether you’re dealing with a policy lapse, contestability period issues, or a beneficiary dispute, leveraging New York’s legal framework can sometimes improve your chances of recovering the benefits you’re owed.

How the Law Offices of Jason Turchin Can Help

If Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York denied your life insurance claim, the Law Offices of Jason Turchin can help. We have extensive experience assisting clients with life insurance disputes and understand how to challenge claim denials. Call us at 800-337-7755 or start a live chat today to learn more about how we can guide you through the appeals process and secure the benefits you deserve.