Life insurance policies are designed to offer families reassurance and financial stability after losing a loved one. However, the reality can be starkly different when insurance companies fail to honor these promises. At Kantor & Kantor, we understand the profound impact of such denials on families already coping with loss.
Insurance companies, driven by financial incentives, may sometimes prioritize their bottom line over fulfilling their obligations to policyholders. This conflict of interest can lead to unjust denials or underpayments of life insurance claims. Such practices are frustrating and can worsen beneficiaries’ emotional and financial distress during a difficult time.
Our life insurance attorneys in Los Angeles are committed to leveling the playing field. We advocate on behalf of policyholders to ensure that insurance companies uphold their end of the bargain. Whether your claim has been wrongfully denied, delayed, or undervalued, we have the expertise to navigate the intricacies of insurance law and fight for the benefits you deserve.
If you are facing challenges with a life insurance claim in Los Angeles, contact our Los Angeles life insurance lawyers. Call 818-886-2525. Our initial consultations are always free and without obligation.
Let us help you navigate this complex legal terrain and pursue the benefits that you and your loved ones are entitled to receive.
Common Reasons Life Insurance Claims Are Denied
When grieving a loved one, the last thing you want to deal with is a denied life insurance claim. Unfortunately, this happens more often than many people realize. Here are common reasons why life insurance claims get denied in Los Angeles:
Accusations of Misrepresentation or Non-Disclosure
Insurance companies often scrutinize the policyholder’s application for inaccuracies or omissions. To justify a denial, they may claim that the policyholder provided false information or failed to disclose relevant facts, such as pre-existing medical conditions. Insurance companies may claim that the policyholder provided false information or failed to disclose relevant facts when there is a reasonable explanation for such facts. Similarly, the type of question asked may be ambiguous, which leads to the claimant’s not understanding what was being asked.
Allegation of Policy Lapse or Non-Payment of Premiums
Another common reason for denial is the unlawful allegation that the policy lapsed due to non-payment of premiums. There are laws in place and stipulated requirements that outline the time frame that insurance companies have in which to provide notice that a policy is lapsing. If insurance companies do not comply with these notice periods, they are obligated to reinstate that policy. Insurance companies may argue that the policy was not in force at the time of death, thus invalidating the claim.
Accusations of Failure to Provide Required Documentation
Insurance companies require various documents to process a claim, including the death certificate, proof of identity, and, often, medical records. Denials can occur if the insurer claims the provided documentation is insufficient or incomplete. This most frequently occurs when the death occurs in a foreign country and a death certificate is difficult to interpret or impossible to obtain.
Tactics Used by Insurance Companies to Deny Life Insurance Claims
Insurance companies often resort to various tactics to avoid paying out life insurance claims. Here are ten common strategies they employ:
- Demanding Excessive Documentation: By requesting an overwhelming amount of paperwork, insurers can make it difficult for claimants to comply, thereby justifying a denial based on incomplete documentation.
- Interpreting Policy Language Narrowly: Insurers may use vague or ambiguous policy terms to their advantage, interpreting them in the narrowest way possible to deny coverage.
- Accusing Material Misrepresentation: They might allege that the policyholder provided false or misleading information on the application, even if the discrepancies are minor, caused by ambiguity, or unrelated to the cause of death.
- Citing Policy Exclusions: Insurance companies often rely on specific exclusions, such as suicide, acts of war, or dangerous activities, to deny claims, even in cases where the exclusion might not apply.
- Relying on Medical Underwriting Issues: If the policyholder had a pre-existing condition not disclosed at the time of application, the insurer might deny the claim based on non-disclosure or misrepresentation, regardless of whether the condition contributed to the death.
What to Do if Your Life Insurance Claim Has Been Denied
Discovering that your life insurance claim has been denied can be devastating. It is important not to lose hope.
Your first step is to understand the reasons behind your claim denial. Carefully review the denial letter from the insurance company. Understand their specific reasons for denying your claim. This will help you identify any misunderstandings or discrepancies that must be addressed.
Then, gather your documents. Collect all relevant documents related to the life insurance policy and the claim. This includes policy documents, medical records, correspondence with the insurer, and other paperwork supporting your claim.
Once you have done this, it is time to seek legal advice. Life insurance policies are complex legal documents, and claim denials often involve intricate legal and factual issues. Contact our experienced life insurance lawyer. We will analyze your case, assess the validity of the denial, and guide you on the best course of action.
The next step is to file an appeal. If we determine that the denial is unjustified, we will assist you in filing an appeal with the insurance company. This involves presenting additional evidence, addressing any concerns the insurer raises, and making a compelling case for why your claim should be approved.
Finally, prepare for litigation by gathering all relevant documentation, including your policy, denial letters, medical records, and any communication with the insurance company. Consult with an experienced life insurance attorney at Kantor & Kantor who will represent your interests and pursue the benefits you’re entitled to.
Why Choose Kantor & Kantor for Your Life Insurance Case?
When handling life insurance claims, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. Here’s why Kantor & Kantor should be your first choice:
Our Unmatched Expertise
Our Los Angeles life insurance attorneys are seasoned experts in insurance law, particularly in handling life insurance claims. With decades of combined experience, we understand insurance companies’ tactics to deny or delay claims. Our expertise allows us to anticipate challenges and develop effective strategies to overcome them, ensuring that your claim is handled professionally and competently.
Our Comprehensive Approach
From the moment you engage our services, we take a comprehensive approach to your case. We review your policy, gather all pertinent documents, and build a robust case file. We handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring that every interaction is strategic and that evidence supports all arguments.
Our Proven Success
We have recovered millions of dollars for our clients by overturning wrongful denials and securing the benefits they deserve. Our success is rooted in our relentless commitment to fighting for justice and our unwavering dedication to each client’s case.
Our Client-Centered Focus
We put our clients at the heart of everything we do. We understand that dealing with a denied life insurance claim can be emotionally draining and financially stressful. We prioritize clear communication, compassionate support, and personalized attention. We take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you informed every step of the way.
We Deliver Aggressive Advocacy
Insurance companies have vast resources and powerful legal teams. To level the playing field, you need a law firm that is unafraid to take on these giants. At Kantor & Kantor, we are known for our aggressive advocacy. We do not back down in the face of challenges and are prepared to take your case to court, if necessary, to secure the best possible outcome.
How We Can Help with Your Life Insurance Case
We understand the immense frustration and emotional toll of dealing with a denied or delayed life insurance claim. Our life insurance attorneys in Los Angeles are here to provide you with the support and expertise you need to secure the benefits you are entitled to. Here is how we can help:
- Understanding Your Situation: We start by reviewing your life insurance policy and the reasons provided for the denial. Our experienced team analyzes the details to develop a clear strategy tailored to your situation.
- Strategic Legal Guidance: With decades of experience in insurance law, our firm provides strategic guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. We explain your rights under the policy and state laws, ensuring you understand all available options moving forward.
- Advocating on Your Behalf: Insurance companies may use complex tactics to minimize payouts or deny claims outright. We have decades of experience negotiating with insurers, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
- Litigation Support: In cases where the insurer refuses to pay its fair share, our skilled litigators are prepared to take your case to court. We successfully litigate against insurance companies, fighting to secure the benefits you deserve.
Talk to a Life Insurance Attorney in Los Angeles Today
Are you facing difficulties with your life insurance claim? Our life insurance attorneys in Los Angeles are here to provide guidance and support. We understand the complexities of life insurance disputes and will help you navigate them.
Whether you are dealing with a denied claim, delays in payment, or disputes over policy terms, our Los Angeles life insurance attorneys have the knowledge and experience to assist you.
Contact us at 818-886-2525 to schedule a free consultation. Let us work together to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

Attorney Glenn R. Kantor
Glenn Kantor is a founding partner of Kantor & Kantor LLP. As a young attorney, Glenn saw the injustice of wrongful insurance denials and created a law firm to represent individuals seeking to obtain their rightful benefits. Glenn is committed to ensure that clients receive the benefits they are entitled to under their insurance policies or group health plans. [Attorney Bio]