Estate Planning 101

Notifying John Hancock Life Insurance After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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In the event of a loved one's passing, there are various tasks to attend to, and one of the most critical is notifying pertinent organizations such as John Hancock Life Insurance if the deceased had a life insurance policy. This step is crucial to initiate the claim process and inquire about potential benefits.

Who Should Be Notified

John Hancock Life Insurance is a prominent provider of life insurance policies. If your loved one had a life insurance policy with John Hancock, it's necessary to notify the company to initiate the claim process and to stop any ongoing payments if the policy was not paid in full.

When to Notify

You should notify John Hancock Life Insurance as soon as possible after the death of your loved one. This allows the company to stop any unnecessary charges and start the process of reviewing the claim promptly.

How to Notify

Notifying John Hancock Life Insurance can be done by calling their Customer Service at 1-800-732-5543. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim. You will need to provide the policy number if available, the deceased's name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Additionally, you will be asked to submit a certified copy of the death certificate.

What to Expect After Notification

Upon notification, John Hancock will provide information on the next steps to claim the death benefit. The process generally includes reviewing the claim, determining if the policy is active and whether death benefits are payable. If approved, the death benefit will be paid out to the named beneficiaries on the policy.

Tips for Notification

When notifying John Hancock, ensure you keep a record of all your correspondence, including the date, time, and the representative you spoke with. Keep copies of all submitted documents. These records can be beneficial if there are discrepancies or issues in the future. If you have any questions or need clarification, don't hesitate to ask the representative.

Conclusion

Although it's a challenging task, notifying John Hancock Life Insurance after the passing of a loved one is a crucial step. It allows for the initiation of the claim process and paves the way to receive the policy's benefits. With an understanding of the process, you can navigate this task efficiently during a difficult time.

FAQ

Q: Can I notify John Hancock online?
A: While John Hancock provides online services, it's generally recommended to call their Customer Service to report a death and begin the claim process.

Q: What if the policy is not fully paid?
A: If the policy is not fully paid, John Hancock will typically deduct any unpaid premiums from the death benefit.

Q: What if there are multiple beneficiaries?
A: If there are multiple beneficiaries, John Hancock will divide the death benefit according to the policy's terms.