File Term Insurance Claims Easily
Direct links to claim portals, helpline numbers, and email contacts for 24+ life insurance companies in India.
Written by Shifa NooraniReviewed by Shadab SayeedUpdated nyvo insurance Services LLP, IRDAI Corporate Agent (Composite) CA1085Salaried advisors, no commission-based ranking
Our Condolences
If you're filing a death claim, we understand this is a difficult time. Start with the insurer's claims desk in the list below, and keep every submission in writing. Our death claim checklist sets out the documents and the order to send them in. How each life insurer settles claims, and how many complaints it draws, is in our term insurance claim settlement ratio table.
Intimate Promptly
Inform the insurer as soon as possible. Most companies require intimation within 3-6 months
Gather Documents
Collect death certificate, policy documents, ID proofs, and medical records if applicable
Nominee Details
The nominee registered in the policy should file the claim with proper identity proof
Settlement Timeline
IRDAI mandates settlement within 15 days of intimation, or 45 days if the claim is investigated
Life Insurance Corporation of India
India's largest life insurer with the highest market share
Private Life Insurance Companies
Click on "File Claim Online" to register your claim directly with the insurer
Documents Required for Life Insurance Claim
For Death Claims
- Original policy document or policy bond
- Death certificate (original + copies)
- Claimant's (nominee) ID proof and address proof
- Relationship proof with deceased
- Cancelled cheque or bank details
- Claim form duly filled and signed
Additional Documents (if applicable)
- Hospital records and discharge summary (if hospitalized)
- Post-mortem report (if conducted)
- FIR and police investigation report (for accidental death)
- Employer certificate (if employed)
- Legal heir certificate (if no nominee)
- Treating doctor's certificate
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a life insurance death claim?
The nominee mentioned in the policy is the primary claimant. If there is no nominee, legal heirs can file the claim by providing a legal heir certificate or succession certificate from the court.
How long does it take to settle a life insurance claim?
As per IRDAI's September 2024 Master Circular, insurers must settle a death claim within 15 days of intimation, or within 45 days if the claim needs investigation. If they miss the deadline they owe interest at the bank rate plus 2%.
What if the policyholder died within 3 years of buying the policy?
For the first 3 years from the policy's issue, or its last revival, the insurer can investigate, and can refuse the claim for fraud or a material misstatement in the proposal (Section 45 of the Insurance Act, 1938, as amended in 2015). If every disclosure was accurate, the claim is paid. After 3 years the policy cannot be questioned on any ground.
Is suicide covered under life insurance?
Most life insurance policies exclude suicide within the first 12 months. After 1 year, suicide is typically covered, and the full sum assured is paid to the nominee.
What should I do if my claim is rejected?
If your claim is rejected, request a detailed explanation in writing. You can appeal to the insurer's grievance cell, approach the Insurance Ombudsman, or file a case with the consumer court.