weird mail - UPDATE post #11

[mommy2mrb]

I received a letter today from a life insurance company stating I may have some benefits coming from a policy Jim had. I know nothing of this policy, could of been done before I met him. Just think its strange that it would be sent at this time. They are asking for a copy of the death certificate if available, which I wouldn't send unless I know for sure this is legitimate.

Did look up the website, but feel this might be a scam...any thoughts??? the office is closed until Monday.

 

[Poppins2000]

Lisa,

I would definitely do some research on the company and check them out on the BBB. I would also ask the company to provide you with copies of the insurance/benefit paperwork to you before you send them anything. Any legit company would do so especially if you have no record of any benefit coming to you.

Most insurance companies have to be notified of a policy holders death not the other way around. That alone is a red flag to me.

How did the letter arrive? Was it stamped or through bulk third class mailing? If it was bulk mail, it is probably a scam. I would think that such a letter stating you had benefits coming would have been sent to you as registered mail.

Just a few things to think about...

Becky

 

[mommy2mrb]

thanks for your insight Becky...

the whole thing does seem a bit off to me.
it was a metered stamp.
I am planning on calling the company on Monday to verify the information.

Thanks!

 

[PrincessNancy96]

Definitely agree w/ everything Becky said..

Definitely research... I would NOT send anything unless they could provide proof of the policy.

I know of a family here that Dad had gotten insurance behind mom's back just to make sure they were taken care of.. She got a letter a year or so later... and sure enough it was legit but they kids (all adults w/ kids) did research before allowing mom to send anything.

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

And don't call the number listed in the letter or on the website they list in the letter, you don't know if that number is legit. Try to find the number through a third party.

Is it a popular known insurance company or an independent company? If you have an insurance agent, I would have them look up the info. They could probably tell you if it's a scam. We have an insurance agent here that does all of our stuff from, life, home, to auto policies.

Can your states attorney general help you find out if it's legit?

 

[mommy2mrb]

Thanks Nan and Buffy....I really am thinking this is a scam!

there is only a PO box in CT for their address, 800 telephone number and
no real info on BBB.

will do a bit more digging today!

 

[mommy2mrb]

have sent a complaint to my state insurance commissioner's office, they will investigate and let me know!

 

[PrincessNancy96]

Good for you!!

Can't wait to hear what they find out...

Good to let them do the work and figure out if this is legit. I would hate to see you provide such important documentation to a scam..and lose a lot... and if it is a scam you have just helped prevent someone else from getting taken!! Way to be proactive!!!

 

[mommy2mrb]

they were very nice when I talked to them. She said its better to double check them out too! could take a couple weeks before I hear anything, will keep you all updated!

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

Glad you called them. Keep us posted.

 

[mommy2mrb]

got the paperwork back yesterday! its an annuity that Jim would of received at retirement age.

there is no cash out option, I will start getting payments when Jim would of turned 65 which will be 10/1/2024 and will receive $67.50 per month. not much, will add it to our vacation savings! now to put all the paperwork somewhere safe so I don't forget about it and to remember to contact them when we move!

 

[Poppins2000]

Woo! That's great Lisa - every little bit helps

 

[mommy2mrb]

Woo! That's great Lisa - every little bit helps

yes it does Becky! just have to remember that it will be coming in 10 years!