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Q: How do I get the claim process started?
If your loved one purchased an individual life insurance policy, a family member or beneficiary should call 1-800-874-7481 to report the death. Unum will then mail a claim form, which should be completed and returned to us along with a copy of the certified death certificate.
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Q: What information do I need to provide if the death was accidental or if there was an injury that involved dismemberment?
If the death was accidental as defined in the policy, you, another family member or a legally designated trustee will be asked to give a detailed account of the accident, including a list of all attending physicians and witnesses. Include available reports such as the police report or coroner report. If your loved one had an accident that resulted in the loss of a hand, foot, finger or toe or the loss of eyesight, you or your loved one will be asked to document the full account of the injury. The attending physician will be asked to provide a physicians statement and supporting office notes.
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Q: What is an accelerated benefit?
If the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness, he or she may request a portion of the life insurance benefit in advance. Specific details on eligibility will be outlined in your policy. An attending physician statement and copies of medical records for the terminal condition will be required. However, there is a fee associated with requesting the accelerated benefit option.
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Q: If I have questions about a life claim, who can I call?
Once the Certified Death Certificate has been received, the claim will be assigned to a Life Benefit Specialist. At that time you may call, 1-800-635-5597 to speak with the person who is handling your claim. Please note, if you are not the beneficiary of the policy, you will be given limited information.
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Q: How quickly can I expect to hear from Unum about the claim?
Most claims (more than 80%) are paid within five business days of our receiving completed claim forms and appropriate documentation. If we are unable to make a formal decision within this timeframe, we will notify you in writing with the reason for the delay.
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Q: How will the benefits be distributed? Will they be distributed in one lump sum?
The benefit will be paid to the beneficiary in a lump sum check.
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Q: Are the life benefits I receive as beneficiary taxable?
Life insurance proceeds are very rarely subject to income tax. As the Voluntary Benefits Life policy is not paid for by the insured's employer the only element of the benefit subject to taxation is the interest calculated, if applicable, on the Life insurance benefit. The interest amount is reported on a 1099 form and can be recorded as miscellaneous income. If no interest is included in the benefit, then the benefit is non-taxable.
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Q: What happens if I disagree with Unum's decision on a claim?
Our claim process is designed to ensure that each claim receives a thorough, fair and objective evaluation. In addition, numerous safeguards are in place throughout the process to ensure the integrity of decisions. If we determine that benefits are not payable, you may appeal the decision by requesting a separate, impartial review from our quality performance support unit. You will be notified by mail if the claim is denied and will include the contact information you need to appeal the decision.
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Q: Can I assign benefits to a funeral home?
As a service, Unum will issue some or all of the benefit to a funeral home or funeral funding agency as a courtesy to the beneficiary. In order for funds to be assigned, we must receive a funeral home assignment signed by the beneficiary.
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Q: What if the beneficiary is a minor?
The benefits will be paid into an interest bearing account to be held until the minor reaches the age of 18. At that time, the minor will be sent a letter informing him/her of the amount accumulated up to the 18th birthday and will be granted full access to all proceeds. It is the responsibility of the guardian to provide Unum with current contact information for the minor.
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Q: Can I request a copy of the VB Life policy?
Yes. If you are the beneficiary, executor of the estate or a legal representative you are entitled to a copy of the policy. There may be a charge associated with this request which will be the responsibility of the requestor.
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