Following the death of a loved one, it is crucial to notify various organizations and institutions. Among these, health insurance providers, such as Cigna, must be informed promptly to avoid unnecessary charges and to settle any remaining claims.
Who Should Be Notified
Cigna, as the health insurance provider of the deceased, needs to be notified of their passing. This is necessary to terminate the health coverage, settle any outstanding claims, and prevent any future billings or premium charges.
When to Notify
Cigna should be notified as soon as possible after the death of the policyholder to ensure that no additional charges are incurred and to expedite the processing of any pending claims.
How to Notify
You can notify Cigna by calling their customer service number listed on the back of the insurance card. Alternatively, you can reach out to them via the online customer portal. Be prepared to provide the deceased's policy number, Social Security number, and a copy of the death certificate if requested.
What to Expect After Notification
Upon notification, Cigna will terminate the deceased's health insurance policy. Any ongoing premium payments will cease. If there are any pending claims at the time of death, the insurer will typically settle these. Keep in mind, however, that the policy may include a clause about the policyholder's death, which could affect the handling of these claims.
Tips for Notification
Keep a record of all communication with Cigna, including the date and time of your call or online submission, the representative you spoke with, and any confirmation numbers you receive. This documentation can be beneficial if there are any issues later on.
Conclusion
Notifying Cigna about the death of a policyholder is a necessary step following the loss of a loved one. While it can be a challenging task in a difficult time, prompt notification can help avoid unnecessary charges and ensure that any pending claims are addressed properly.
FAQ
Q: What if I don't have the policy number?
A: If you don't have the policy number, Cigna may be able to locate the deceased's account using their name and date of birth. However, having the policy number can expedite the process.
Q: Will Cigna reimburse any premiums paid after the policyholder's death?
A: Typically, if premiums were paid for a period after the policyholder's death, these would be refunded, but it's best to confirm this directly with Cigna.
Q: What happens to any pending claims after the policyholder's death?
A: Generally, pending claims at the time of the policyholder's death will be settled by Cigna as per the policy terms.
