What to Do if Your Life Insurance Claim Is Denied
You've paid life insurance premiums for years, expecting financial protection for your family. Then, when a loved one passes away, the insurer denies the claim — leaving you without the death benefit you counted on.
A denied life-insurance claim is devastating. Insurers often use vague technicalities like "misrepresentation," "policy lapse," or "pre-existing condition" to justify refusing payment — even when the policy was valid and premiums were paid.
In Alberta, most denials can be challenged and overturned. As Alberta insurance-litigation lawyers who once defended insurers, we understand exactly how these denials are constructed — and how to dismantle them.
This article explains why life-insurance claims get denied, what steps to take immediately, and how to force insurers to honour the coverage your loved one paid for.
Common Insurance Challenges in Alberta
Insurers most often deny Alberta life-insurance claims for one or more of these reasons:
Common denial reasons:
Why Life Insurance Claims Are Denied
Insurers rely on predictable arguments when refusing payment:
Immediate Steps After a Denial
Taking immediate action after a denial is crucial to protect your rights and build a strong case:
Request the Denial Letter in Writing
Insurers must explain why they denied the claim and cite the specific policy clause. Keep copies of all correspondence.
Ask for the Complete Policy and Application
You're entitled to see the entire contract — not just the summary booklet. This reveals what questions were asked and how answers were recorded.
Obtain the Claim File
Request all internal notes, underwriting reports, medical-review memos, and emails used in the decision.
Gather Medical and Financial Records
Hospital records, doctor's notes, pharmacy histories, and proof of premium payments often expose insurer errors.
Consult an Alberta Insurance Lawyer
Early legal intervention prevents lost deadlines and forces the insurer to disclose evidence promptly.
How Lawyers Challenge Life-Insurance Denials
An experienced Alberta insurance lawyer combines **policy interpretation**, **medical evidence**, and **procedural pressure** to overturn denials.
Review Application and Underwriting Records
For errors or ambiguity.
Prove Innocent or Immaterial Misrepresentation
Showing the alleged misrepresentation was innocent or immaterial.
Verify Premium Payments
Confirming that premiums were paid and coverage active.
Obtain Expert Opinions
Linking (or separating) cause of death and any medical history.
Negotiate or File Suit
Negotiate reversal or settlement — or file suit under Alberta's *Insurance Act*.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
A life-insurance denial doesn't mean the end of your family's claim — it means the beginning of a fight you can win.
Insurers must prove their grounds for denial
Most denials stem from innocent errors or procedural issues
Alberta law protects families from unreasonable conduct
With proper legal strategy, you can secure the benefits your loved one intended