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If no one ever files a claim, what happens to a policy’s death benefit?

When an insured dies, the insurance company will need to be notified to begin the process. If not, what happens then?

Written by Kaycie Gaige
Updated over a week ago

Anyone can start this process, it does not have to be the beneficiary.

What to do first

If you believe a claim has not been started, the fastest way to move forward is to submit the claim form:

Once submitted, we’ll review the information, identify the beneficiary, and guide them through the rest of the process.


If no one reaches out

If no one contacts the insurer, the benefit is not automatically paid right away.

However, insurers are required to make efforts to identify unpaid benefits and locate beneficiaries.

For policies issued through Fabric by Gerber Life, our insurance partner, Western-Southern Life Assurance Company, regularly checks records against the Social Security Administration’s Death Master File.

A policy may be flagged for review if:

  • No claim was submitted

  • A claim was started but not completed

  • The insurer identifies a potential match through external records

If this happens, the insurer may:

  • Review the policy and confirm eligibility

  • Attempt to locate and contact the beneficiary

  • Pay the benefit once all requirements are met

What to keep in mind

Submitting a claim is the fastest way to ensure the benefit is paid. If you're not sure where to start, email support@meetfabric.com

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