Why Life Insurance Claims Get Denied in Florida (And How to Respond)

Life insurance is meant to provide financial security to families after the death of a loved one. Unfortunately, many Florida families face the shock of having their life insurance claim denied when they need the benefits most. Insurers may cite policy exclusions, alleged misrepresentations, or other technicalities to avoid paying.

If your claim was denied, you don’t have to face the process alone. At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, our team has experience handling life insurance disputes across Florida. We may be able to challenge the denial, negotiate directly with the insurer, or file a lawsuit if necessary. Call us today at 800-337-7755 for a free consultation. You won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.

Why Do Life Insurance Claims Get Denied in Florida?

Insurance companies deny claims for a variety of reasons, some legitimate and others questionable. Understanding these reasons can help you prepare to fight back.

1. Alleged Misrepresentation on the Application

• Insurers often argue that the policyholder made a false or incomplete statement on their application.

• This may include medical history, smoking status, past diagnoses, or lifestyle risks.

• Even an innocent mistake can be used to deny coverage.

2. Policy Exclusions

• Policies may exclude certain causes of death, such as suicide within the first two years of coverage or deaths related to high-risk activities.

• Insurers may interpret exclusions broadly to avoid paying claims.

3. Lapse Due to Non-Payment of Premiums

• If premiums were not paid on time, insurers may claim the policy lapsed.

• Florida law requires insurers to provide grace periods, but disputes often arise over whether proper notice was given.

4. Contestability Period Investigations

• During the first two years of a policy, insurers may investigate nearly any claim.

• This period often leads to denials based on alleged misstatements, even if unrelated to the actual cause of death.

5. Beneficiary Disputes

• Multiple people may claim they are entitled to the policy benefits (e.g., current spouse vs. former spouse, or disputes involving children).

• In these cases, the insurer may delay or file an interpleader lawsuit in federal or state court.

6. Accusations of Fraud

• If the insurer suspects fraud in the policy application or claim process, they may deny outright.

• Families often need legal help to show that the claim is legitimate.

How to Respond to a Denied Life Insurance Claim in Florida

A denial letter is not the end of the road. Families often succeed in overturning denials when they take the right steps.

Step 1: Read the Denial Letter Carefully

• The denial letter should explain why the insurer refused to pay.

• Look for references to specific policy provisions, exclusions, or alleged misrepresentations.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

• Collect medical records, premium payment history, application copies, and correspondence with the insurer.

• This evidence can help challenge the insurer’s reasoning.

Step 3: Consider Appealing Internally

• Many insurers have internal appeals processes.

• An attorney can draft a strong appeal letter citing legal arguments and supporting evidence.

Step 4: Explore Litigation Options

• If the insurer refuses to reverse the denial, a lawsuit may be filed in state or federal court.

• Florida courts have handled many life insurance disputes, including interpleader cases where insurers deposit funds with the court for a judge to decide.

Step 5: Hire an Experienced Life Insurance Lawyer

• Navigating Florida insurance law and federal ERISA regulations can be complex.

• An attorney can evaluate your claim, negotiate with the insurer, and represent you in court if necessary.

Florida Laws That May Protect Beneficiaries

Florida has consumer-friendly insurance laws that can help claimants:

• Grace Period Requirements: Policies must provide at least a 30-day grace period for late payments.

• Bad Faith Protections: Insurers may face penalties if they deny claims without reasonable justification.

• Federal ERISA Preemption: Group policies through employers may fall under ERISA, which has its own rules and deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I still recover benefits if the insurer says my loved one misrepresented their health?

A: Yes. If the alleged misrepresentation was not material or the question asked was unclear or vague, or if it was an innocent mistake, courts may still order payment.

Q: How long do I have to fight a denial in Florida?

A: Deadlines vary depending on whether the policy is private or employer-based (ERISA). It’s best to consult a lawyer immediately after receiving a denial letter.

Q: What if multiple people are claiming the same life insurance policy?

A: The insurer may file an interpleader lawsuit, placing the funds with the court. A judge will then decide who is entitled to the benefits.

Q: Do I have to pay upfront to hire a lawyer?

A: At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, you won’t pay any fees or costs unless we win or settle your case.

Conclusion

Being denied life insurance benefits can feel overwhelming, especially while grieving. But many denials can be challenged successfully. Whether the issue involves alleged misrepresentation, lapsed payments, or beneficiary disputes, you may have legal options to fight back.

If your life insurance claim was denied in Florida, don’t give up. Contact the Law Offices of Jason Turchin today at 800-337-7755 for a free consultation. We handle cases on contingency, which means you won’t pay any fees or costs unless we recover money for you.