You Counted on SGLI to Protect Your Family – Now Your Claim Has Been Denied
Losing a loved military service member is a life-altering event. During this difficult time, you expected the benefits from the Service Members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) policy to provide financial stability. Instead, your claim has been denied, leaving you feeling confused, frustrated, and uncertain about what to do next.
You shouldn’t have to fight this battle alone.
While no one can fully understand your pain, we do understand the system and how to fight back. ERISA Insurance Claim Attorneys is experienced in handling SGLI claim denials. We stand with military families and beneficiaries who’ve been unfairly denied the benefits they were promised.
We’ve helped families successfully challenge denials through both appeals and litigation. We’re ready to do the same for you, guiding you every step of the way and fighting relentlessly to secure the benefits your loved one earned.
Understanding SGLI and Why Claims Are Denied
Service Members’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is a life insurance program offered to active-duty service members, certain reservists, and members of the National Guard. The coverage, managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and underwritten by private insurers, is meant to provide financial security to families in the event of a service member’s death.
Eligible members are automatically enrolled with $500,000 in coverage, though they can choose lower amounts or decline coverage altogether.
However, while SGLI is meant to provide peace of mind, claims are often denied due to bureaucratic issues, administrative errors, or disputes over policy details.
Common Reasons for SGLI Claim Denials
- Disputed Beneficiary Designations – Conflicts over who is entitled to receive benefits can cause delays or outright denials. This often takes place after a divorce or a new marriage if the spouse is not the named beneficiary.
- Alleged Misrepresentation – The insurer may claim the policyholder failed to disclose relevant health or lifestyle information.
- Policy Lapses or Non-Payment Issues – In some cases, administrative errors result in claims being denied due to mismanaged payments.
- Cause of Death Disputes – Some claims are denied when the insurer argues that the cause of death is excluded under the policy (e.g., suicide within the contestability period, misconduct-related deaths).
- Failure to Convert SGLI to VGLI – If a service member did not convert their policy to Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI) after leaving the military, their loved ones may struggle to secure benefits.
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Disputes – Claims under additional coverage may be challenged on the grounds that the injury or death does not meet the strict qualifications of the policy, or is excluded by a policy exclusion such as intoxication, or an argument that the death was not caused by an accident, but rather, was the result of “natural causes” like illness, sickness, or disease, when it really was not.
Regardless of the reasons for the claim denial, don’t give up hope! That’s what the insurer or competing beneficiary hopes you do. But many denials are wrongful and can be overturned with the right legal strategy.
How We Fight for Your SGLI Benefits
The SGLI claim appeals process can be frustrating and complicated, especially while you’re grieving. You need someone who understands how to navigate the system and fight on your behalf. That’s where we come in. We have:
1. Experience in SGLI Regulations
We have experience handling SGLI claims, understanding both insurance law and the unique legal landscape of military benefits. We know what it takes for the best chances to win these cases.
2. Thorough Investigation & Case Analysis
We carefully review your policy, beneficiary designations, claim forms, and any denial letters to pinpoint exactly why your claim was rejected and, more importantly, how to challenge it.
3. Strong, Evidence-Based Appeals
Many denials are issued due to administrative mistakes or misinterpretations of policy language. We prepare comprehensive, legally sound appeals that challenge wrongful denials and demand the benefits you are owed. Equally important, we gather and produce the right evidence, in the right form, to prove the denial wrong.
4. Direct Negotiation with the Insurer & VA
Dealing with insurance companies and government agencies can be stressful and confusing. We handle all communications and negotiations, advocating aggressively for your rights.
5. Litigation When Necessary
If the insurance provider refuses to approve a valid claim, we take legal action and fight for you in court.
Why Choose Us?
Choosing the right attorney can make the difference between losing your claim and securing the benefits you deserve. Here’s why clients trust us:
- Experience with SGLI Cases – We have a deep understanding of military life insurance policies and claims.
- Proven Success in Claim Denial Appeals – We have successfully helped families recover millions in denied life insurance and accidental death and dismemberment insurance benefits.
- Compassionate & Approachable Representation – We understand the emotional and financial strain you are under, and we are here to help ease the burden.
- Clear, Honest Communication – We keep you informed every step of the way with straightforward, transparent guidance.
- No Upfront Fees – We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Call us for a Free SGLI Claim Consultation
A denied SGLI claim can feel like another blow after losing a loved one, but you don’t have to accept it. You have the right to challenge the denial and fight for the benefits your family deserves.
We can guide you through the process, handle the legal burden, and stand up to the insurance company on your behalf.
Call today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and develop a strategy to fight for the benefits you were promised.
Let’s fight for what’s right – together.
