Understanding the Change of Beneficiary Process
AIG requires a signed, completed Change of Beneficiary form to update the person or entity that will receive the death benefit. The form must match the policyholder's current contact details and include the new beneficiary's full legal name, relationship, and Social Security number or Tax ID when applicable.
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Key Information to Gather Before Starting
Collect the policy number, current beneficiary details, and the exact spelling of the new beneficiary's name. Verify the new beneficiary's eligibility—some policies restrict minors, trusts, or non‑U.S. residents. Have a recent photo ID ready for the policyholder's signature verification.
Step‑by‑Step Completion Guide
1. Header Section – Enter the policy number, policyholder's name, and address exactly as they appear on the policy documents.
2. Current Beneficiary Details – List the existing primary and contingent beneficiaries, their percentages, and any special conditions.
3. New Beneficiary Information – Provide the full legal name, relationship to the insured, date of birth, and Social Security number or Tax ID. Indicate the percentage of the death benefit each new beneficiary will receive.
4. Signature and Date – The policyholder must sign and date the form in the presence of a notary if the policy requires notarization (check the policy's "Beneficiary Change" clause).
5. Attach Supporting Documents – If the new beneficiary is a trust, attach a copy of the trust agreement. For minors, attach a court‑approved guardianship document.
Submission Options
AIG accepts the form via mail, fax, or secure online portal. Mail the form to the address listed on the policy's "Contact" page, fax to the number on the AIG customer service line, or upload a PDF through the AIG MyPolicy portal after logging in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving any required field blank, especially Social Security numbers.
- Using nicknames or abbreviations that differ from legal documents.
- Failing to update contingent beneficiaries, which can cause disputes.
- Not notarizing when required, leading to processing delays.
Quick Reference Table
| Action | Requirement | Typical Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Mail submission | Signed form + any attachments | 7‑10 business days |
| Fax submission | Signed form (fax‑compatible) | 3‑5 business days |
| Online portal | PDF upload, digital signature if allowed | 1‑3 business days |