Q: Life insurance claim issues after brother's death in MI; company requests medical access.
My brother passed away a couple of weeks before the end of the contestability period, and I submitted a valid life insurance claim with the original death certificate. However, the insurance company is asking for permission to contact his doctors and review his medications, although my brother had given them permission when he got the policy. They are unwilling to honor the claim until I grant them access to his medical history, despite my brother having disclosed a pre-existing condition in the initial health questionnaire. The company has not provided any specific reason for the request, nor will they communicate directly via email, preferring verbal communication. I am concerned they are trying to find a loophole to avoid payment and threaten to refund only the premiums or put the claim on hold. I refuse to violate HIPAA by complying. I'm unsure whether to consult with a lawyer in Michigan, Kansas where the company is based, or in my state. What are my options?
A: If the policy was issued in Michigan, or the decedent resided in Michigan when he purchased the policy, then you should consult a lawyer in Michigan.
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