A roadmap for a family that locates a long-term care policy after the insured person has died: cover, documents, representation and deadlines.
Start by locating the cover and the period
The family checks whether a policy was in force during the period in which an LTC condition apparently existed. Locating a policy is not enough; you have to identify the definition and the dates that applied.
Documentation from the insured person's lifetime
Since a fresh assessment cannot be carried out, the weight of the existing documentation may be considerable.
- Hospital and clinic summaries
- Functional or cognitive assessments
- Documents from a carer, an institution or National Insurance
- Evidence of a need for help and supervision
- Earlier approaches to the insurance company
Who may act
The insurance company may ask for documents showing who is authorised to deal with the estate. Do not send probate documents or sensitive information through an unofficial channel.
Where there is a dispute between heirs or a legal question, obtain appropriate advice.
Deadlines call for prompt action
In a claim after a death the question of prescription may be central. Assemble the timeline immediately and seek a legal review of entitlement without delay.
Frequently asked questions
Can a long-term care claim be filed after the insured person has died?
It may be possible where it emerges that an LTC condition existed during a period in which the policy was in force. The examination focuses on the cover, the definition, documentation from that period and the legal deadlines.
Who may file the claim in place of the deceased?
The insurance company may ask for documents showing who is authorised to deal with the estate. Do not send probate documents or sensitive information through an unofficial channel.
Which documents matter when a fresh assessment cannot be carried out?
The weight of the existing documentation increases: hospital and clinic summaries, functional or cognitive assessments, documents from a carer or institution, National Insurance confirmations, and evidence of a need for help and supervision.
Is prescription particularly relevant in a claim after a death?
Yes, it is often the central question. It is therefore important to assemble a full timeline immediately and to seek a legal review of entitlement without delay.
Official sources for further checking
This is general information and does not replace personal medical, legal or insurance advice. Eligibility is determined by the documents and rules that apply to each case.