Insurance Claims
The life insurance company is stalling. What are my options?
Short answer
California law requires insurers to pay or deny a claim within 40 days of receiving proof of death. If they are stalling, send a certified letter noting the 40-day requirement and your expectation of resolution. If they continue to delay, file a…
What this usually means
California law requires insurers to pay or deny a claim within 40 days of receiving proof of death. If they are stalling, send a certified letter noting the 40-day requirement and your expectation of resolution. If they continue to delay, file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance at 1-800-927-4357. Bad faith insurance practices are actionable in California.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.