How to claim on a UK life insurance policy in 2026 — a step-by-step guide. Most claims are paid. The goal here is to get through the process quickly, correctly, and with minimum delay.
Step 1: Notify the insurer
As soon as practically possible after the death. Use the insurer's dedicated bereavement phone line, or contact the original adviser. You don't need all documents at this point — just the policy number and basic details.
Step 2: Gather supporting documents
- Death certificate (original or certified copy).
- Policy document (if available).
- Claim form — issued by the insurer.
- Proof of identity for the claimant / beneficiary.
- Medical questionnaire (if requested).
- Grant of Probate (for policies outside trust, after the executor obtains it).
Step 3: Complete the claim form
In full — partial forms are the #1 cause of delay. Answer every question, attach every requested document. If something doesn't apply, write "N/A" rather than leaving blank.
Step 4: The insurer's review
The insurer reviews the claim, requests medical evidence from the deceased's GP if needed (paid for by the insurer), and assesses against the policy terms. Most UK life insurance claims are decided in 2–6 weeks.
Step 5: Payout
Paid directly to:
- Trustees if the policy was in trust (fastest; bypasses probate).
- Executor if the policy was in the estate (requires Grant of Probate).
- Named beneficiary for some whole-of-life policies (check specifics).
Common pitfalls
- Not knowing the policy exists — keep policy documents accessible.
- Incomplete claim forms.
- Not mentioning trust-writing at notification — the insurer's process differs.
- Incorrect information on the claim form (dates, relationships, addresses).
- Missing the insurer's requested documents — prompts re-requests and delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notify the insurer as soon as practically possible. You'll then receive a claim form and a list of supporting documents (death certificate, policy document, proof of identity). Complete the claim form in full; the insurer does the rest.
Death certificate (original or certified copy), policy document, completed claim form, proof of identity for the claimant, and — for policies outside trust — a Grant of Probate.
Straightforward claims typically pay in 2–6 weeks. Complex claims or those requiring probate can take 3–12 months.
For policies in trust: the trustees. For policies outside trust: the executor of the estate (after Grant of Probate). The original adviser can support with the paperwork.
You can usually still claim. The insurer can verify the policy from their records. You'll need to provide the deceased's details and any identifying information you have.
The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects UK life insurance up to 100% of the policy value. Book-transfers typically happen before insolvency; check with the FSCS directly if unsure.