Estate Planning 101

Notifying Guardian Life After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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Snug makes it easy to create a Will or Trust in under 20 minutes. Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives are included for free with any Will or Trust, as is a year of free updates.
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Need a Will or Trust?

Snug makes it easy to create a Will or Trust in under 20 minutes. Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives are included for free with any Will or Trust, as is a year of free updates.
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The passing of a loved one comes with many responsibilities, one of which is notifying relevant institutions like insurance companies. If your loved one had disability insurance with Guardian Life, it's crucial to inform them promptly. This guide will help you through this process.

Who Should Be Notified

If your loved one held a disability insurance policy with Guardian Life, the company should be notified of their passing. This is important to stop premium payments and enquire about potential benefits or payouts.

When to Notify

It's advisable to notify Guardian Life as soon as possible after the death of the policyholder. This helps prevent unnecessary charges and allows for a timely processing of potential benefits.

How to Notify

You can notify Guardian Life by calling their customer service at 1-888-482-7342. Be prepared to provide the policyholder's full name, policy number, and a copy of the death certificate. Some matters might also require legal paperwork, such as Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration, proving you're authorized to manage the deceased's affairs.

What to Expect After Notification

Once Guardian Life is notified, they will guide you through the next steps. This may involve terminating the policy, discussing potential payouts, or addressing any outstanding premiums. They will provide information on any necessary documentation and the timeline for these processes.

Tips for Notification

When communicating with Guardian Life, it's advisable to keep detailed notes of your interactions, including the date and time of contact, the representative's name you spoke with, and any instructions given. This can be helpful in case of future discrepancies.

Conclusion

Notifying Guardian Life of a policyholder's death is a critical task that helps handle their disability insurance affairs. By understanding the process, you can ensure an efficient and hassle-free experience during this challenging time.

FAQ

Q: Can I notify Guardian Life online?
A: Currently, the death of a policyholder should be reported to Guardian Life by phone.

Q: What happens if there are outstanding premiums?
A: Outstanding premiums may be deducted from any potential payout. However, it's best to discuss this directly with Guardian Life.

Q: Can the policy be transferred to a beneficiary?
A: Disability insurance typically cannot be transferred and usually terminates upon the death of the policyholder.