Estate Planning 101

Notifying Aetna After a Loved One’s Passing

September 13, 2023

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In the wake of a loved one's passing, notifying various institutions is a necessary task. If your loved one was covered under a group policy insurance with Aetna, it is essential to inform them promptly. This process aids in stopping any ongoing premium payments, determining if any payout is due, and managing potential benefits transitions.

Who Should Be Notified

If your loved one was a member of a workplace or group policy insurance with Aetna, both Aetna and the employer or group policy holder should be notified of their passing. This ensures any necessary adjustments to the policy can be made.

When to Notify

It is advisable to notify Aetna and the employer or group policy holder as soon as possible following the death of your loved one. This will help in preventing any potential overpayment or underpayment of premiums or benefits.

How to Notify

To notify Aetna of the death of a policyholder, you can call their customer service number at 1-800-US-AETNA (1-800-872-3862). You may also be able to report the death through the employer or group policy holder, who can then notify Aetna on your behalf.

What to Expect After Notification

Once Aetna has been notified, they will stop any ongoing insurance premium payments and provide information about possible payouts due under the policy. If dependents are covered under the policy, Aetna will provide information about the continuation of their coverage.

Tips for Notification

Keep a record of all communications with Aetna, including the date and time, the person you spoke with, and the information provided. This will be helpful if there are any discrepancies in the future. Also, be prepared to provide a copy of the death certificate.

Conclusion

Notifying Aetna and the employer or group policy holder after the death of a loved one is a crucial step in managing their affairs. It helps to stop any ongoing payments, settle potential benefits, and transition coverage for any dependents. While it is a challenging task, swift and thorough communication will help streamline the process.

FAQ

Q: What if my loved one had a personal policy with Aetna?
A: If your loved one had a personal policy with Aetna, the process would be similar. You would need to contact Aetna directly to notify them of the policyholder's death.

Q: What happens to the insurance benefits if there are dependents covered under the policy?
A: Coverage for dependents may continue for a period of time. Aetna can provide specific details based on the policy.

Q: What if I can't find the policy information?
A: If you can't find the policy information, the employer or group policy holder may be able to provide it. If not, Aetna can help locate the policy using the policyholder's personal information.