You’ve lost a loved one. Despite the deep state of shock, anger, and unimaginable pain, you have to start making some important calls. Thinking about the next steps, you can’t help but feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, you have funeral insurance ready to assist you and your family in covering all burial related expenses.
As a beneficiary, you need access to cash within 24 hours from the time of death to assist you in making the necessary arrangements. This makes a quick payout from your insurance an absolute necessity. But making a death claim is a process very few know much about until they must do it. In this article, we walk you through the claims process and policy documents you’ll need before making a claim.
FUNERAL CLAIMS
When you first took out your insurance, all the details of the policy should have been explained to you. This would have included the cover amount, benefits, as well as the claim process. Most insurers would also provide you with all the relevant contact details for the claim process at this stage.
These would include a call center number you can call to have an agent take you through the process. You also have the option of sending an SMS with your policy number (standard rates apply) and a consultant will call you back. Alternatively, you can send an email to the claims department. Here’s how you can avoid delays in the funeral pay-out claims process.
SUBMITTING THE CORRECT DOCUMENTATION ON TIME
One of the main reasons why many claims get delayed is because policyholders often fail to submit certified documents.
The necessary documents for a funeral cover claim include:
- a certified death claim form
- death certificates
- notice of death form
- a copy of the deceased’s ID documents.
- Remember, the sooner your insurer receives all the relevant documents, the quicker the payout time. This will also give you access to all your funeral benefits.
CHECK THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF YOUR INSURER
Always read the fine print; you need to know what you and any dependents are covered for. If there are details you need clarity on, contact your provider and have them explain these to you.
Make sure that the insurer discloses what company underwrites them, so you to know what to expect in the long run. When taking out cover with an insurer, you must disclose full details of your family’s medical history, pre-existing illnesses, and medication currently being taken. This information is vital in the claims process.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS AS A CONSUMER
If your insurer rejects your claim, you have the right to object in writing. If the complaint is still unresolved and you are not satisfied with the outcome, you can approach the Insurance Ombudsman for help.
When it comes to funeral cover, make it a priority to read and understand the terms and conditions of your policy. You need to know if there are any violations and exclusions that may prevent your claims from being paid out.
Make sure to consistently pay your premiums when they are due. Another reason why claims get rejected is that the policy has been cancelled due to unpaid premiums. Always keep your policy and premiums up to date and make sure you review your funeral cover policy regularly.