Life Insurance Claim Denied for Suicide Clause – What Beneficiaries Should Know

Life insurance is meant to provide financial protection to families after the death of a loved one. But many beneficiaries are shocked to learn that their claim was denied because of a suicide clause in the policy. These clauses often allow insurers to deny benefits if the policyholder died by suicide within a certain period after the policy began — usually two years.

If your life insurance claim was denied under a suicide clause, the Law Offices of Jason Turchin may be able to help. We have represented hundreds of families in life insurance disputes nationwide, including denials based on policy exclusions.

What Is a Suicide Clause in Life Insurance?

A suicide clause is a standard provision in most life insurance policies. It could allow the insurance company to deny benefits if:

• The policyholder dies by suicide within the first two years of coverage (the exact period may vary).
• The insurer refunds only the premiums paid, instead of paying the death benefit.

After the clause expires, the policy should cover suicide like any other cause of death.

Why Insurers Deny Claims Under the Suicide Clause

Insurers often deny claims if they believe:

• The death certificate or medical examiner’s report lists suicide as the cause of death.
• The death occurred during the two-year exclusion period.
• The policyholder increased coverage or bought additional riders within two years of death.

When Suicide Clause Denials May Be Challenged

Not every denial is valid. Beneficiaries may challenge these denials when:

• The cause of death is unclear – For example, an overdose or accident may be misclassified as suicide.
• The exclusion period had already expired – If the insured died after two years, the clause may not apply.
• Policy language is ambiguous – Some denials are based on unclear contract terms.
• Additional riders are treated unfairly – Insurers may deny benefits under new riders while ignoring that the main policy was older than two years.

How Suicide Clause Denials Impact Families

For many families, the denial is devastating. Instead of receiving the expected financial support, they may only receive a refund of premiums — sometimes just a fraction of the policy’s value. This can leave families without funds for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Mortgage or rent payments
• Debts and medical bills
• Household living costs

How an Attorney May Help With Suicide Clause Denials

A life insurance attorney may:

• Review denial letters and policy language
• Investigate the official cause of death
• Challenge the insurer’s interpretation of the suicide clause
• Argue that the clause should not apply due to timing or circumstances
• File lawsuits in state or federal court if necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a suicide clause always mean no payout?
Not necessarily. If the death occurred after the clause expired, the insurer may still owe the full benefit.

How long does the suicide clause last?
Typically two years, but the exact time depends on the policy.

What if the cause of death is disputed?
Beneficiaries may be able to challenge the classification of suicide. Some deaths are accidents or overdoses misclassified by insurers.

Can an insurer deny an accidental death rider but still pay the base policy?
Yes. In some cases, the base life insurance policy may pay while the accidental death rider is denied.

Do ERISA employer-based policies have suicide clauses?
Yes, many group policies include suicide exclusions that may be subject to federal court review.

Contact a Life Insurance Attorney for Suicide Clause Denials

If your life insurance claim was denied due to a suicide clause, the Law Offices of Jason Turchin may be able to help. We represent beneficiaries throughout Florida, New York, New Jersey, and nationwide. Our cases are handled on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you.

📞 Call 800-337-7755 today or start a live chat with our team for a free consultation.