What to Do If SCOR Global Life USA Reinsurance Company Denied Your Life Insurance Claim

If SCOR Global Life USA Reinsurance Company denies a life insurance claim, it can be both frustrating and overwhelming. Life insurance benefits are intended to provide financial security during difficult times, and a denial may leave families unsure of their next steps. However, many denied claims can be appealed successfully. If your claim was denied, call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or chat with us live. We can help explain the reasons for the denial and guide you through the appeal process.

Why SCOR Global Life USA Might Deny a Claim

Understanding the reasons behind a claim denial is the first step toward preparing an effective appeal. SCOR Global Life USA Reinsurance Company may deny claims for a variety of reasons, including:

• Policy Lapse Due to Missed Premiums:
  A common reason for denial is that the policy lapsed because premiums weren’t paid. However, insurers are generally required to send proper lapse notices. If SCOR failed to provide the correct notifications, the policy may still be active, giving you grounds to challenge the denial.
• Errors or Omissions on the Application:
  Claims may be denied if discrepancies or omissions are discovered in the original policy application. Even unintentional errors—such as not disclosing certain medical conditions—can lead to denials. Providing additional documentation and clarifications can often address these concerns.
• Policy Exclusions or Limitations:
  Many life insurance policies include exclusions for specific situations. For example, certain high-risk activities or pre-existing conditions may not be covered. Reviewing the policy terms carefully can help determine if an exclusion was applied properly. If not, you may have a strong case for an appeal.
• Beneficiary Disputes or Changes:
  Conflicts over beneficiary designations or multiple claims to the same policy proceeds can cause delays or result in denial. Clear documentation—such as signed beneficiary forms or correspondence that verifies the insured’s intent—can help resolve these disputes and allow the claim to move forward.
• Missing or Incomplete Documentation:
  Claims may also be denied if essential documents—such as certified death certificates or completed claim forms—are incomplete or missing. Ensuring that all required paperwork is accurate and fully submitted can prevent denials and support a successful appeal.

Steps to Take After Receiving a Denial

If SCOR Global Life USA denies your claim, consider taking these steps to improve your chances of a successful appeal:

1. Carefully Review the Denial Letter:
   The denial notice should outline the reasons for rejection and provide instructions on how to appeal. Understanding the insurer’s rationale is critical for crafting a strong response.
2. Collect Relevant Documents:
   Gather all necessary records, including:
   • A complete copy of the life insurance policy and any amendments
   • Proof of premium payments
   • Certified death certificates and medical records, if applicable
   • All correspondence with SCOR Global Life USA Reinsurance Company
   • Beneficiary designation forms and updates
3. Prepare a Detailed Appeal:
   Your appeal should directly address the reasons given for the denial. Submit additional documentation, clarify any inconsistencies, and ensure that the appeal is well-organized and thorough. A strong appeal can significantly improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
4. Consult a Life Insurance Attorney:
   If your initial appeal is denied or if you feel unsure about how to proceed, an experienced life insurance attorney can help. Attorneys can identify errors in the denial, gather further evidence, and represent you in negotiations or legal proceedings.
5. Consider Filing a Complaint With State Regulators:
   If the internal appeal fails, filing a complaint with your state’s insurance department may prompt further review. Regulatory authorities can examine whether SCOR followed proper procedures and may encourage the insurer to reconsider the claim.

Example of a Claim That Could Be Denied

A claim might be denied if the insured didn’t disclose a past medical condition on their application. If SCOR later finds that this omission affected their underwriting decision, they may refuse to pay the claim. However, if the condition wasn’t related to the cause of death or the application question was vague or ambiguous, providing medical records and a clear explanation can demonstrate that the omission was not material and that the claim should be approved.

Interpleader Lawsuits and Beneficiary Disputes

If there’s a dispute over the rightful beneficiary, SCOR may file an interpleader lawsuit. This involves the insurer depositing the life insurance proceeds with a court and asking the court to decide who is entitled to the funds. If you’re involved in an interpleader, submitting clear documentation—such as original and updated beneficiary forms—could help support your case. Legal representation can be important to ensuring your rights are protected.

Florida-Specific Considerations

If you reside in Florida, additional protections may apply. For instance, Florida’s insurance laws often require insurers to provide specific lapse notices and follow particular claims handling procedures. If SCOR did not comply with these regulations, it could strengthen your appeal. Working with an attorney familiar with Florida insurance laws can help you identify potential procedural violations and use them to your advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if my claim was denied due to unpaid premiums?
First, check whether SCOR sent the required lapse notices. If the company didn’t follow state law in notifying the policyholder, the policy might still be valid, and you may have grounds for an appeal.

Can a claim be denied for an unintentional error on the application?
Yes, but you can sometimes challenge it. If the error was not material or was unrelated to the cause of death, providing additional documentation or corrected information can strengthen your appeal.

How do I resolve a beneficiary dispute?
Disputes over beneficiaries require clear documentation of the insured’s intent. This might include signed beneficiary forms, correspondence with the insurer, or other written evidence. Consulting a lawyer can help clarify the situation and protect your rights.

What if SCOR applied an exclusion incorrectly?
If you believe the exclusion was wrongly applied, review the policy’s terms carefully. Submitting documentation that demonstrates the exclusion doesn’t apply can help clarify the issue and lead to a successful appeal.

How the Law Offices of Jason Turchin May Help

If SCOR Global Life USA Reinsurance Company denied your life insurance claim, the Law Offices of Jason Turchin may be able to help. We have experience handling life insurance disputes and can guide you through the appeals process. Call us at 800-337-7755 or start a live chat today to learn more.