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Make a life insurance claim
If you need to make a claim on a life insurance policy, this page will tell you how. Scottish Widows will do all they can to make sure your claim is handled as quickly and smoothly as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, just call Scottish Widows on one of the numbers below. They'll be happy to help.
1. What you'll need to make a claim
If you can, try to have this information to hand when you start your claim. It’ll make it easier to find your policy:
- Policyholder’s full name and date of birth
- Policyholder’s address, including the postcode
- Your postal address, email address and a phone number Scottish Widows can use to contact you.
- The plan or policy number, which you can find in the policy documents. Don’t worry if you can’t find it, you can start your claim without it.
2. Get in touch
3. What you'll need to send
When you start your claim, Scottish Widows will ask you to send some documents. They'll let you know exactly what you need to send, and why. They'll usually ask for:
- The policyholder’s death certificate
If the policy is not held in trust, Scottish Widows will ask you to send documents to show that you have a legal right to deal with the policyholder's estate. They'll let you know if you need to send:
- A copy of the policyholder’s Will, if they left one.
- Legal documents that say who payments should go to, like a Grant of Probate. These are also called 'Letters of Administration' in England and Wales, or 'Confirmation' in Scotland.
In some cases Scottish Widows might need to contact a doctor or coroner to ask for medical information. They’ll always ask for your permission, first.
Help and support
Making a claim can be a difficult time, and we want to make sure that you have all the support you need. These organisations may be able to help.
People you can talk to
Macmillan Cancer Support
Physical, financial and emotional support if you or a loved one are diagnosed with cancer.
Samaritans
If you need someone to talk to, they will listen. Any time, day or night.
Age UK
A charity that works with and for older people. They can help tackle loneliness, support inclusion and deliver better lives for old people.
RedArc
If you have Scottish Widows Care as part of your policy, RedArc can help with practical advice and emotional support.
Practical advice
Citizens Advice
Whatever the problem, they can provide confidential and free advice. Online, over the phone or in person.
MoneyHelper
Free advice on dealing with money after a death. From paying for the funeral to looking after the paperwork and household bills.
HM Revenue & Customs
Find answers to questions about tax or benefits.
Gov.uk
Get advice on what to do after someone dies.