MICHIGAN, INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES: Department of Insurance and Financial Services Locates More Than $1.3 Million in Unclaimed Life Insurance and Annuity Benefits for Consumers in First Six Months of 2020

By Press release submission

Aug 10, 2020

Michigan, Insurance and Financial Services issued the following announcement on Aug. 5.

“This is money that was owed to grieving families during their time of need,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “DIFS is committed to helping families locate the benefits that they are entitled to, including those beneficiaries who cannot find important records after the death of a loved one.”

Families should first review family records, including statements, invoices, and check ledgers, to determine if life insurance proceeds or annuity payments may be available, and then contact the issuing company for more information. Consumers who cannot locate this information can log into the DIFS Life Insurance and Annuity Search Service (LIAS) to locate deceased family members’ life insurance policies or annuity contracts purchased in Michigan. DIFS collects submissions and sends them to insurance companies, who complete a search of their records. Companies will respond only to a listed beneficiary if a life insurance policy or annuity contract is located. Between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2020, the service processed nearly 800 requests resulting in the recovery of more than $1.3 million to 33 claimants

“This is an important service for families, and we appreciate the partnership with Michigan insurers to make this part of the grieving process easier,” said Fox. “We know that a paid claim can make a significant difference to a family’s financial well-being, which is central to our work as a consumer protection agency.”

Consumers with questions may visit the LAIS webpage or contact DIFS at 877-999-6442 or DIFS-LIAS@michigan.gov. A national resource is also available from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners at eapps.naic.org/life-policy-locator.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/difs or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.

Original source can be found here.