How to Find Missing Life Insurance Policy Information

If you can’t find the insurance policy information for a loved one who has passed away, you can probably still dig up the information with a little detective work and some phone calls.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Death certificate

1. Try to remember the insurance company that your loved one dealt with.

2. Talk to friends and family members of the deceased—in some cases, you may find someone who has information on the insurance policy and what company it was taken out with.

3. Search for the missing insurance policy. Some of the most common places to check are in a safety-deposit box, cupboard or drawer. Look through the deceased person’s belongings thoroughly.

4. Ask the executor if he or she has any information on where the insurance policy may be stored or was taken out.

5. Get on the phone once you have a good idea of which insurance company is the right one, or a short list of possible insurance companies. Call the company and request to speak to an agent. Tell the agent the situation and ask if there is an insurance policy for the person. Provide all the information you can to identify the person whose policy you are seeking.

6. If you have no idea what insurance company was used, try contacting an insurance brokerage that can access many insurance companies. Ask them to search for a policy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are the beneficiary, make sure you have valid identification before calling the insurance company. You'll need the insured’s full name, address, phone number, birth date, social security number and any other pertinent information available.