How Canada Life processes group life insurance claims

Key takeaways

Some people have group life insurance coverage through an employer or plan sponsor.
You must submit a form to make claim on their behalf.
There is an appeal process if your claim isn’t approved.

How to submit a group life insurance claim

Inform the plan sponsor of the death.
Complete and submit the appropriate group life insurance claim form.

What are the submission timelines?

To allow for prompt assessment, initial notice of a life claim should be submitted as soon as possible.

My form is complete. Now what?

We’ll collect information about the plan insured individual’s coverage from your plan sponsor.

If there’s any outstanding information required to assess your claim, we’ll let you know either through written letter or phone call.

Once all information is received, we’ll review the claim details along with your group life plan’s contractual provisions.

How long does it take to process my claim?

A decision will be made 7 calendar days from the date we receive all necessary information.

Please note: This timeline is intended for standard plans only. Actual timelines might vary based on plan design and claim complexity. Missing information or incomplete applications for benefits may impact processing timelines. We may need to extend the timeline if additional review is needed.

How will I find out if my claim has been accepted?

We’ll provide you with written confirmation of the claim decision (including benefit details).

Appeal details for group life insurance claims

If benefits are denied, you’ll receive a detailed letter with an explanation for the decision. The letter will also include:

Details on how to appeal the decision
What information should be included in your appeal
Where to send the appeal

Appeal level 1

Once we’ve received all necessary appeal level 1 information, communication will be made within 7 calendar days.
We’ll review the appeal level 1 information submitted and provide written notification of the appeal outcome.
If the decision is maintained, information regarding options for the next level appeal will be provided.

Appeal level 2

The appeal process is deemed final once the second appeal decision is made.
Any further concerns may be escalated through our customer complaint process.

What’s next?

Get the group life insurance claim form you need.

This information is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only. For specific situations you should consult the appropriate legal, accounting or tax advisor.