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How To File A Life Insurance Claim as a Beneficiary

and Other Essential Steps After a Loved One’s Passing

Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging experience, and amidst the grief, there are practical matters that need attention. One critical aspect is filing a life insurance claim to ensure financial stability during these difficult times. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to take when a loved one passes away, including filing a life insurance claim and addressing other important matters.

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1. Notify the Relevant Parties:

The first step during this difficult time is to reach out to close family members, friends, and the deceased’s employer to inform them of the situation. If your loved one had a life insurance policy through their workplace, the employer can provide guidance on the next steps to take. 

2. Obtain the Death Certificate:

Contact the local authorities to obtain the death certificate. You will likely need multiple copies for various purposes, including the life insurance claim, settling the estate, and other legal matters.

3. Locate Important Documents:

Gather essential documents such as the deceased’s will, any existing life insurance policies, and financial records. Having this information on hand will expedite the process of settling the estate.

4. Contact the Life Insurance Company:

Reach out to the life insurance company as soon as possible. You will need to provide them with the policy number, a copy of the death certificate, and any other requested documentation. The insurer will guide you through the steps required to file a claim.

It could look like something like this:

1. Gather necessary documents:

  • Death certificate: This is the official document confirming the insured person’s death and will be needed by the insurance company.
  • Policy information: Have the life insurance policy number and any relevant paperwork readily available.
  • Claim forms: Contact the insurance company to obtain the specific claim forms you need to fill out.
  • Proof of relationship: If you are not the policy beneficiary, provide documentation proving your relationship to the deceased, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.
  • Additional documentation: The insurance company may request additional documents depending on the circumstances of the death, such as medical records or police reports.

3. Complete and submit the claim forms:

  • Carefully review and fill out the claim forms, providing accurate and complete information.
  • Attach all required documentation and submit the forms to the insurance company.

4. Follow up and stay informed:

  • The insurance company will review your claim and may request additional information or clarification.
  • Be prepared to provide any further documentation they need and maintain open communication with them.
  • Keep track of important dates and deadlines throughout the process.



5. Understanding the Beneficiary Perspective:

If you are the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, you’ll need three crucial pieces of information to properly file a claim.

  • Identify the Insurance Company: If you’re unsure about the life insurance policy details, check bank records or contact their insurance agent. Knowing the company is the first step.

  • Contact the Company for Claims Documents: Once you identify the insurance company, get in touch with them to obtain the necessary claims documents. Typically, they provide a downloadable packet that needs to be filled out.

  • Attach the Death Certificate: Death certificates are usually issued a few weeks after the person passes away. Ensure you have the original certificate, as some insurance companies may require it. Order extra copies to streamline the process.

    6. Exploring Additional Benefits:

    Check for any additional benefits or riders attached to the life insurance policy, such as accidental death benefits or critical illness coverage. Understanding the full scope of the policy can provide valuable financial support during challenging times.

    7. Contact Financial Institutions:

    Reach out to banks, investment firms, and other financial institutions where the deceased held accounts. Provide them with the necessary documentation and inquire about the procedures for accessing or transferring funds.

    8. Seek Legal Advice if Needed:

    If the deceased had significant assets or if there are complexities in the estate, it may be wise to consult with a probate attorney. They can provide guidance on the legal aspects of settling the estate and ensure that all necessary steps are taken.

    9. Update Personal Records:

    Notify relevant organizations of the death, including the Social Security Administration, the Department of Motor Vehicles, and any subscription services. Prevent identity theft and ensure that the deceased’s records are updated accordingly.

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10. Understanding Tax Implications for Beneficiaries:

If you’re the beneficiary, understanding the tax implications is crucial. Depending on the type of money inherited (IRA or non-IRA), you may need to make decisions about how to handle the taxes. Seeking professional advice can help you navigate this complex terrain.

  • IRA Inheritance: Inheriting an IRA follows specific rules, and beneficiaries are responsible for taxes. Consider options like spreading withdrawals over time to avoid higher tax brackets.

  • Non-IRA Annuities: If the annuity is non-IRA, it was funded with after-tax money. Inheriting it means dealing with taxes on the interest earned. Exploring options like a non-qualified stretch can help manage tax implications.

  • Be Cautious with Windfalls: Larger inheritances can be overwhelming. Seek professional advice to avoid unintentionally squandering the money. Studies show that a significant percentage of individuals who inherit substantial amounts have nothing left within a few years.

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Potential Complications in Life Insurance Claims and How to Handle Them:

There are several possible complications that may arise. To give you some examples, here are some tips on how to handle them:

1. Missing Documents:

  • Tip: Start gathering vital documents like the policy, death certificate, and proof of relationship early on. Request additional copies of the death certificate to avoid delays. Consider keeping backups in a secure location or uploading them electronically.

2. Contested Claims:

  • Tip: Understand the contestability period of your policy (typically 2 years). If the insured died during this period and there were misrepresentations on the application (e.g., pre-existing health conditions), the claim could be contested. Cooperate with the insurance company’s investigation and provide accurate information. Seek legal counsel if you need assistance disputing the denial.

3. Delayed Payments:

  • Tip: Follow up with the insurance company regularly, but understand that processing can take time (30-60 days is normal). Ensure complete and accurate claim forms are submitted and respond promptly to any requests for additional information. Be assertive, but avoid accusing the company of misconduct.

4. Disagreements Among Beneficiaries:

  • Tip: If beneficiary designations are unclear or disputes arise, legal mediation may be necessary. Consider using a dispute resolution clause in the policy to designate a neutral third party to handle disagreements. Open communication and seeking legal advice can prevent conflicts from escalating.

5. Tax Implications:

  • Tip: Understand the tax implications of receiving a life insurance payout, especially for larger sums. Consult a financial advisor or tax professional to determine your responsibilities and minimize potential tax burdens.

6. Fraudulent Claims:

  • Tip: Be aware of scams targeting grieving beneficiaries. Never share personal or financial information with unverified individuals claiming to represent the insurance company. Report any suspicious activity to the company and authorities.

Some Helpful Resources:

Grief Support Resources:
  • National Grief Helpline: 1-800-Grief (1-800-443-3234) – Provides trained grief counselors for personalized support, 24/7/365.
  • The Compassionate Friends: Offers support groups and resources for adults who have lost a child.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Connects individuals with local support groups for coping with loss and mental health challenges.
  • Dougy Center: Provides grief support specifically for children and teens who have lost loved ones.
  • Center for Loss & Life Transition: Offers workshops, retreats, and support groups for grieving individuals and families.
Financial Stress Management Resources:
  • National Foundation for Credit Counseling: Provides free and confidential credit counseling services to help manage debt and overcome financial challenges.
  • Benefits.gov: A helpful tool for searching for government benefits you may be eligible for, including financial assistance programs.
  • National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE): Offers financial education resources and tools to help you manage your money and reduce stress.
  • 211: This number connects you to local agencies and resources that can provide assistance with food, housing, utilities, and other needs.
  • Free Legal Assistance: Many communities offer free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families. Contact your local bar association or legal aid organization for more information.

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional tax or financial advice.

 

Estate Planning  Potential Tax Changes in 2025 and Beyond

There’s an important change on the horizon that you need to be aware of. Back in 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act brought a significant opportunity for wealthier individuals and families. It more than doubled the lifetime estate tax exemption, providing a chance to pass on more assets tax-free. However, this opportunity is set to expire at the end of 2025.

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Retirement planning always involves looking ahead, but the future of estate taxes is particularly uncertain. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 offered increased benefits with its generous gift and estate tax exemptions. However, these exemptions are set to expire on January 1, 2026, unless Congress intervenes.

This uncertainty presents both challenges and opportunities. By proactively planning now, you can take advantage of current benefits and prepare for potential tax changes in 2025 and beyond.

Key Points to Remember:

  • Expiration Date: The current higher gift and estate tax exemption amounts expire on January 1, 2026.
  • Potential Impact: If the law reverts, the exemption amounts will fall back to what they were in 2017: around $7 million for individuals and $14 million for married couples (adjusted for inflation).
  • Time to Act: While 2026 may seem distant, proactive planning now gives you greater control over your future wealth distribution, regardless of potential tax changes in 2025 and beyond.

What to Do Now:

  1. Assess Your Finances: Determine how much you can afford to give away during your lifetime without compromising your lifestyle.

  2. Work with Professionals: Consult with your estate planning professional to devise a plan that suits your unique situation.

  3. Consider Trusts and Life Insurance: Explore different types of trusts and life insurance strategies to safeguard your wealth.

Estate Planning Strategies:

1. Leveraging Gift Tax Exemptions:

Maximizing Lifetime Exemption:

  • Think of it as a big bank account: The current individual lifetime exemption is $12.92 million, and $24.8 million for married couples. This is the total amount you can transfer tax-free during your lifetime.
  • Use it or lose it: Once you exceed this limit, your estate may be subject to hefty taxes. By gifting assets now, you “lock in” the current, higher exemption before it potentially decreases in the future.
  • Smart gifting: Strategically gifting valuable assets like stocks or real estate to loved ones now reduces the size of your taxable estate later.

Utilizing Annual Exclusion:

  • Think of it as a small, regular allowance: Each year, you can gift up to $18,000 per recipient (as of 2024) without it impacting your lifetime exemption. This is like a free pass for smaller tax-free gifts.
  • Spread the wealth: You can give to multiple recipients, effectively making it a larger tax-free transfer each year. For example, a couple can gift $36,000 per year to a grandchild without impacting their lifetime exemption.
  • Cumulative over time: These smaller gifts, over time, can significantly reduce your estate size and minimize future tax burdens for your beneficiaries.

2. Strategic Trust Options:

Trusts can be powerful tools in your estate planning arsenal, offering benefits like tax shields and flexibility for managing your assets.
 
  • Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT): A SLAT is an irrevocable trust that allows one spouse to fund it for the benefit of the other. It provides flexibility for the beneficiary spouse but comes with the downside of the donor spouse losing direct access to the assets. You can transfer assets to a trust for your spouse’s benefit, shielded from future estate taxes for both spouses. 

    Think of it as a safe deposit box for your spouse. You (the donor spouse) put assets in the trust for your spouse’s (the beneficiary spouse) benefit. Here’s what it does:

    • Tax benefits: Assets in the SLAT grow and are typically excluded from both your estate and your spouse’s estate, potentially saving a significant amount in taxes.
    • Flexibility for beneficiary spouse: Your spouse enjoys income and, depending on the trust terms, access to the principal.
    • Downside for donor spouse: Once you put assets in the SLAT, you can’t take them back. Think long before making this move.
  • Credit Shelter Trust (CST): This trust shelters a portion of assets from estate taxes when one spouse dies. There might be additional income taxes for beneficiaries, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. It will protect a portion of your estate from tax when the first spouse dies, allowing it to grow and pass tax-free to the surviving spouse.

    Think of it as a life raft for your estate. When the first spouse dies, it protects a portion of your estate from taxes, allowing it to grow and eventually pass tax-free to the surviving spouse. Here’s how it works:

    • Tax shield: A portion of your estate (up to the current exemption) goes directly to the trust, escaping immediate taxation.
    • Growth potential: Assets in the trust can grow tax-deferred, eventually benefiting the surviving spouse.
    • Potential income tax for beneficiaries: Depending on the trust terms, income generated from the trust might be taxable for the surviving spouse.

3. Permanent Life Insurance: 

Including life insurance in your estate planning can be effective in providing liquidity to cover potential estate taxes.
 

How it works:

  • Two components: Permanent life insurance has two components: death benefit paid to your beneficiaries and a cash value that grows over time.
  • Premium payments: You pay regular premiums, a portion of which goes towards the death benefit and the rest builds the cash value.
  • Cash value growth: The cash value accumulates tax-deferred, meaning you don’t pay taxes on its growth unless you withdraw it (Loans from the cash value may be tax-free).
  • Accessing cash value: You can access the cash value through loans or withdrawals (restrictions may apply, consult a licensed insurance professional).

Covering estate taxes:

  • Liquidity source: The cash value can be used to pay estate taxes after your death, providing your beneficiaries with the funds needed to avoid selling assets or facing tax penalties.
  • Tax benefits: In some cases, using the cash value for estate taxes can be more tax-efficient than simply leaving the death benefit to your beneficiaries.
  • Planning considerations: The effectiveness of this strategy depends on your individual circumstances, policy type, and estate size.
 
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 Why Care About Estate Planning?

You’ve spent decades building a life you love, with a cozy home, happy family, and enough savings to enjoy your retirement. But have you ever stopped to think about what happens after? It might not be the most cheerful topic, but planning for the future is critical to protecting your loved ones and leaving a lasting legacy. That’s where estate planning comes in and is more important than ever.

  • Think of it like building a sturdy bridge into the future. You put the pieces in place now so your family can cross smoothly when the time comes. It avoids confusion, keeps your loved ones secure, and even saves them a hefty chunk of change thanks to intelligent tax planning. Trust us, nobody wants to deal with legal tangles and family dramas at a time like that.

    Planning Made Simple:

    Here’s the good news: estate planning doesn’t have to be rocket science. We’ll focus on practical steps like:

    • Gifting Wisely: Got grandkids you adore? You can give them each up to $18,000 a year without affecting your lifetime tax exemption. That’s a nice head start for their college funds or future dreams.
    • Trusty Trusts: Think of these as safe deposit boxes for your assets. We’ll explain how trusts like Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts and Credit Shelter Trusts can shield your estate from taxes and ensure your spouse is cared for.
    • Charitable Choices: Giving back feels good and can reduce your taxable estate. We’ll show you how donating to causes you care about can benefit you and future generations.
    • State Savvy: Estate laws vary across the country, so we’ll point you towards resources specific to your state, ensuring your plan fits like a glove.
    • Tech Tools to the Rescue: Forget dusty folders and scribbled notes. We’ll guide you towards user-friendly online platforms to easily store and update your estate planning documents.

    Taking Action:

    Ready to build that bridge to a secure future? Here’s what you can do right now:

    • Please schedule a consultation with our trusted financial advisor. They can tailor a plan that fits your unique needs and family situation.
    • Don’t be afraid to talk to your family. Open communication is key to preventing misunderstandings and ensuring everyone knows your wishes.
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Remember: Consulting with a financial advisor or estate planning attorney for personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances is always recommended.

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Estate Planning Now: Secure Your Legacy Amid Potential Tax Changes in 2025 and Beyond.

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional tax or financial advice.

 

Gifting & Taxes

Did you know that gift-giving can have tax implications? It’s important to have a little knowledge about gift tax to ensure that your generosity doesn’t come with any unexpected financial consequences. Additionally, we will be taking a look at the gift-funded life insurance strategy.

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Understanding Gift Tax:

What is Gift Tax? Gift tax is a federal tax on the transfer of money or property from one person to another without expecting something of equal value in return. While the recipient of the gift doesn’t pay taxes, the person giving the gift might have to.

Who is Subject to Gift Tax? In simple terms, gift tax is typically paid by the person making the gift, not the person receiving it. However, not all gifts are taxable. The IRS allows for an annual exclusion amount (cutoff in 2024, it’s $18,000 per recipient), meaning you can give gifts up to this amount to as many people as you want without incurring any gift tax.

When to Use Gift Tax:

Estate Planning: One of the primary reasons for considering gift tax is estate planning. By gifting assets during your lifetime, you can reduce the overall value of your estate, potentially lowering estate taxes when you pass away.

Financial Planning: Gift tax can also be a useful tool for financial planning. Parents, for example, may choose to gift money to their children for educational expenses or to help with the purchase of a home.

When Not to Use Gift Tax:

Small Gifts: Gift tax is not a concern for small, everyday gifts. Gifts under the annual exclusion amount are not taxable, and you don’t need to report them.

Spousal Gifts: Gifts to your spouse are generally not subject to gift tax. There is an unlimited marital deduction for gifts between spouses who are U.S. citizens.

Gift Tax:

    • You can now make gifts of up to $18,000 in 2024 without paying gift taxes. In 2023, the limit was $17,000.

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What You Need To Know About Gifting & Taxes, Your Simple Guide to Gifting Etiquette

 Gift Tax Exemptions: 

  • The annual gift tax exclusion for 2024 is $18,000 per recipient. This means you can give up to $18,000 to as many individuals as you want without triggering gift tax or reducing your lifetime estate tax exemption.
  • Payments made directly to medical or educational institutions for someone else’s expenses (qualifying tuition and medical expenses) are still not considered taxable gifts, even if they exceed the annual exclusion amount

Gift Splitting:

  • Married couples can combine their annual exclusions to gift up to $36,000 per recipient in 2024 through gift splitting. This allows them to make larger gifts without incurring gift tax.

Impact of Appreciated Assets: When you gift appreciated assets, the recipient inherits your cost basis. If you gift stock that has appreciated in value, the recipient may be subject to capital gains tax when they sell it. For instance, if you gift stock worth $20,000 that you bought for $10,000, the recipient may owe capital gains tax on the $10,000 gain.

Gifts to Non-U.S. Citizens: Gifts to non-U.S. citizen spouses are subject to special rules. In 2024, you can gift up to $164,000. annually to a non-citizen spouse without triggering the gift tax. For example, you can give your non-citizen spouse $164,000 if you are a U.S. citizen. without facing gift tax consequences.

Gift Tax Returns:

  • You are required to file a gift tax return (Form 709) if you give gifts that exceed the annual exclusion amount. However, you won’t necessarily owe gift tax at that time unless your lifetime gifts exceed the exemption amount.

Lifetime Gift Tax Exemption Planning:

  • The lifetime gift and estate tax exemption for 2024 is $13.61 million. This means you can give away up to this amount over your lifetime without incurring gift or estate tax.

Consequences of Ignoring Gift Tax:

  • Failure to file a gift tax return when required or inaccurately reporting gifts can lead to penalties and interest charges.

Gift Tax and State Laws: State laws can vary, and some states have their own gift tax rules. For example, Connecticut and Minnesota have their own gift tax. If you live in one of these states, you may need to adhere to both federal and state regulations when making gifts.

Seeking professional advice is crucial for effective gift tax planning. A tax advisor can help you navigate complex regulations. For instance, if you plan to make large gifts as part of your estate planning, a financial advisor can guide you on the most tax-efficient strategies.

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Imagine leaving a significant financial legacy for your loved ones while minimizing taxes.

With the Gift-Funded Life Insurance Strategy!


The Big Idea:

  • You gift money (up to the annual IRS limit of $18,000 per person in 2024) to a designated recipient.
  • The recipient uses this gift to pay premiums on a life insurance policy with you as the insured.
  • Upon your passing, the beneficiaries receive the death benefit, free of income tax.

What is the Strategy?

A creative and often underutilized approach in financial planning involves gifting money within IRS limits to fund life insurance policies. This strategy is particularly beneficial for those looking to provide a substantial financial benefit to their heirs while managing their own taxable estate.

  1. Gift up to $18,000 per recipient per year (2024 limit) without triggering gift tax or reporting to the IRS.
  2. Recipient uses the gift money to pay premiums on a life insurance policy on your life.
  3. Policy ownership:
    • Individual recipient: Simple setup, but less control for the donor.
    • Trust: Offers more control and flexibility, but adds complexity and fees.
  4. Tax-free benefits:
    • Beneficiaries receive the death benefit free of income tax. If structured correctly, the beneficiaries can receive the life insurance proceeds free of income tax. Additionally, because the policy is not owned by the insured (the original donor), the proceeds are typically not included in the donor’s estate, potentially reducing estate tax liability.
    • Life insurance proceeds are not included in your taxable estate (if structured correctly), potentially reducing estate taxes.

Benefits of the Strategy

  1. Estate Tax Reduction: By gifting money, you reduce the size of your taxable estate, potentially lowering estate taxes.
  2. Leveraging Gifts: Even small annual gifts can accumulate and lead to a significant payout through the life insurance policy.
  3. Flexibility and Control: You retain control over the annual gifting, allowing you to adjust based on your financial situation.
  4. Efficient Wealth Transfer: This strategy provides a tax-advantaged way to pass on wealth to your heirs outside of the traditional estate process.

Considerations for Implementation

  • Professional Advice: Consult with financial and legal professionals to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations and to align this strategy with overall financial and estate planning goals.
  • Long-Term Planning: This strategy requires a commitment to annual gifting and, depending on the life insurance policy, potentially long-term premium payments.
  • Trust Structure: If a trust is used, additional considerations, such as the type of trust and administrative requirements, come into play.

Who can benefit from this strategy?

  • Individuals with a significant taxable estate who want to reduce potential estate taxes.
  • Those seeking to provide a substantial financial legacy for their heirs.
  • People who want to have more control over their wealth distribution.

    The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional tax or financial advice.