What to ask your life insurer
Use this checklist to understand a policy; it is not a replacement for the contract or the insurer's written answer.
Have the policy number in front of you and ask the current insurer to answer each question against that record. A name on a website is not enough.
Five questions that settle the basics
- Is the policy in force today, and what death benefit would a claim receive?
- Who is the beneficiary exactly as shown in the record?
- What is the current premium, and can it change under this contract?
- Is there cash value or a loan, and is the loan being used to pay premiums?
- Which address, department, and phone number handle a claim?
Ask for the answer in writing
Request a current statement, the beneficiary record, and any notice that explains a premium or ownership change. Compare the new legal name with the old name on your paperwork. If the insurer cannot match the policy number, ask which search unit handles legacy records.
If a family member has died
Ask what documents the claim team needs, where to send a certified death certificate, and whether the claim is limited by any waiting or contestability provision. Do not mail the original policy; keep a copy and a dated record of every submission.
Source: NAIC policy-locator guidance, checked 2026-09-17.