What to Do If The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company Denied Your Life Insurance Claim

When The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company denies a life insurance claim, it can feel like a significant setback during an already challenging time. Life insurance benefits are often intended to help families cope with financial responsibilities after the loss of a loved one. If your claim has been denied, it’s important to know that this isn’t always the final word. Many claims can be successfully appealed. If you’ve received a denial, call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin at 800-337-7755 or chat with us live. We’re here to help you understand the reasons for the denial and guide you through the steps needed to challenge the decision.

Common Reasons Lincoln National Denies Claims

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company may deny claims for several reasons. Understanding why your claim was denied is the first step toward building a strong appeal. Common reasons include:

• Policy Lapse Due to Nonpayment:
  One of the most common reasons for claim denial is that the policy lapsed because premiums weren’t paid. If the company determines the policy was no longer active at the time of death, they may reject the claim. Providing proof of timely payments, evidence of financial hardship, or documentation showing the policyholder’s intent to maintain the policy can help you contest this type of denial.
• Issues During the Contestability Period:
  Many policies have a contestability period—typically the first two years—when claims are closely reviewed. If Lincoln National identifies errors, such as omitted health conditions or inaccuracies on the application, they may deny the claim. Correcting these discrepancies with proper documentation, additional medical records, and clear explanations can strengthen your appeal.
• Policy Exclusions or Limitations:
  Certain policies have exclusions that prevent payment under specific circumstances. For example, deaths related to high-risk activities or certain medical conditions may be excluded. Carefully reviewing the policy terms can help you determine if the exclusion was correctly applied. If not, you may have grounds to challenge the denial.
• Beneficiary Disputes or Changes:
  If there are questions about who is the rightful beneficiary—such as multiple claimants or recent changes to the designation—Lincoln National may withhold payment until the issue is resolved. Legal assistance can clarify beneficiary rights and help ensure that benefits are distributed as intended.
• Missing or Incomplete Documentation:
  Claims may be rejected if critical paperwork—like a certified death certificate, completed claim forms, or proof of beneficiary status—is incomplete or missing. Ensuring that all documents are 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 National Life Insurance Company, consider these steps to strengthen your appeal and improve your chances of a favorable outcome:

1. Review the Denial Letter Thoroughly:
   The denial letter will explain the reasons for rejection and provide guidance on how to appeal. Understanding the insurer’s rationale will help you gather the appropriate evidence to support your case.
2. Gather Supporting Evidence:
   Collect all relevant records, including:
   • A complete copy of the life insurance policy and any riders or amendments
   • Proof of premium payments
   • Medical and hospital records that address any disputed health conditions
   • Certified death certificates
   • Correspondence with Lincoln National Life Insurance Company
   • Documentation confirming your status as the rightful beneficiary
   A well-prepared set of documents can significantly strengthen your case.
3. Submit a Detailed Appeal:
   Follow the appeal instructions outlined by Lincoln National. Clearly explain why the denial was incorrect and support your argument with the evidence you’ve gathered. A thorough and well-documented appeal can increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
4. Consult a Life Insurance Attorney if Necessary:
   If your initial appeal is denied or if you feel overwhelmed by the process, consulting a life insurance attorney can provide invaluable support. An experienced attorney can:
   • Identify errors in Lincoln National’s reasoning
   • Help you gather additional evidence and provide clear, concise arguments
   • 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. While this step doesn’t guarantee approval, it can lead to additional scrutiny and potentially a resolution.

Florida Claims Against Lincoln National Life Insurance Company

For Florida residents, challenging a claim denial from Lincoln National may involve understanding and leveraging state-specific insurance regulations. Florida’s consumer protection laws provide certain safeguards that can help beneficiaries contest unfair claim denials. Working with a Florida-based life insurance attorney familiar with these rules can help you build a stronger appeal and sometimes improve your chances of recovering the benefits you’re owed.

How the Law Offices of Jason Turchin Can Help

If The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company denied your life insurance claim, you don’t have to handle the appeal on your own. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin has extensive experience helping clients challenge life insurance denials. Our team can carefully review your case, identify errors in the denial, and guide you through the appeals process. Call us at 800-337-7755 or start a live chat today to learn more about how we can assist you.