How do I make a life insurance claim?
Contact the insurer, or the adviser or broker who arranged the policy, as soon as you can. They will explain what they need, which usually starts with the death certificate and policy details. Claims are normally made by the trustees if the policy is in trust, the surviving policyholder on a joint policy, or the executors of the estate.
Step 1: Find the policy details
Look for the policy schedule, annual statements or bank records showing the premium. If you cannot find anything, the insurer can often trace a policy from the person's name, date of birth and address.
Step 2: Tell the insurer
Most insurers have a bereavement or claims line and an online form. Many assign a single claims handler. You can ask the adviser who arranged the cover to deal with the insurer for you.
Step 3: Send the documents
Typically the death certificate, proof of identity, and either the trust deed or the grant of probate, depending on who is claiming. The insurer may also request medical records, which they obtain with the necessary consent.
How likely is the claim to be paid?
Most are. Figures from the Association of British Insurers show 96.7% of new life insurance claims were paid in 2025. The most common reasons for a declined claim are information not disclosed when the policy was taken out, or the circumstances falling outside the policy terms.
Association of British Insurers
This article is general information about UK protection insurance, not personalised financial advice. Policy terms vary between insurers and products, so always check your own policy documents.
Last updated 27 October 2026