Working through the process of grieving the loss of a loved one, while at the same time having to go through the claim filing process, can be one of the most difficult experiences of your life. The Insurance Department prepared the following information to help people in the filing of life insurance claims:

• Obtain several copies of the death certificate. This is the standard documentation required for filing a life insurance claim.

• Contact your lifine insurance agent. The agent who sold the policy can help fill out any necessary forms and act as an intermediary with the insurance company.

• In the case of a group life insurance policy, such as coverage offered by an employer, first contact the group plan sponsor or the human resources office directly. If you are unable to contact the employer, contact the life insurance company directly.

• Submit a certified copy of the death certificate from the funeral director with the policy claim.

In Ohio, companies are required by statute to pay interest on the death proceeds, from the date of death.

Ohioans with questions about life insurance can call the Department’s toll-free consumer hotline at 1-800-686-1526. A life insurance informational toolkit is also available on the Department’s web site at www.ohioinsurance.gov.

If you have lost your loved one due to the negligence of another person, you need information. Contact our Toledo, Ohio wrongful death lawyers at 800.637.8170 for your free copy of The Ohio Wrongful Death Book.