Life insurance benefits are generally payable after a suicide if the death occurs after the policy's contestability period, typically two years, but most policies include a suicide exclusion clause that denies claims within that timeframe.
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Standard contestability period
Insurers usually set a two‑year contestability period from the policy's start date. During this time, they can investigate the claim and deny payment for suicide, fraud, or misrepresentation.
Suicide exclusion clause
The clause specifies that if the insured dies by suicide within the contestability period, the insurer will not pay the death benefit, though premiums may be returned for the covered period.
Exceptions and state regulations
Some jurisdictions limit the exclusion to a shorter period or require insurers to pay a reduced benefit after a certain time. Policyholders should review local laws and their contract's exact wording.
Impact of policy type
Term, whole, and universal life policies all include similar exclusions, but riders or supplemental coverage can modify the terms, potentially offering limited payouts after suicide.
How to verify your coverage
Read the policy's fine print, ask the insurer about the suicide clause, and consider consulting a legal or insurance professional to clarify rights before a claim is needed.