Q: I want to know if I can collect a return on a life insurance policy purchased for me

A: To collect on a life insurance policy where you are both the insured and the beneficiary, but lack the paperwork, you'll need to embark on a process of discovery to identify the insurance company and policy details. The first step would be to try and recall any information about the purchase of the policy, such as the possible insurance company or the person who bought it for you. This might give you a starting point.

If you have no information about the insurance company, you can check with your bank for any past payments made to insurance companies, as this may help identify the insurer. Also, look through any old financial documents or family records that might contain details about the policy.

Another approach is to use the services of a policy locator. In the U.S., the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) provides a life insurance policy locator service, which can help individuals find lost life insurance policies. You'll need to provide as much information as possible about the insured and the policy.

If these steps do not yield results, consider consulting with an attorney or a financial advisor. They can guide you through alternative methods to locate the policy and advise on the legal aspects of claiming it.

Remember, life insurance policies are legal contracts, so it's important to have accurate information before proceeding with a claim. The process can be time-consuming, but it's essential for accessing any benefits you're entitled to.