DIFS Helped Michiganders Recover Record Unclaimed Life Insurance Benefits in 2023

Media Contact: Laura Hall, 517-290-3779, [email protected]
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 2, 2024

(LANSING, MICH) May 2 is National Life Insurance Day and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is reminding consumers that the Department offers the Life Insurance and Annuity Search (LIAS) to help locate lost or forgotten life insurance policies. In 2023, DIFS recovered more than $10 million in unpaid life insurance and annuity benefits for Michiganders, the Department's highest annual total since the program began in 2016.

"As a consumer protection agency, DIFS is here to help with financial services or insurance questions or concerns that Michiganders might have, including questions about life insurance benefits," said DIFS Director Anita Fox. "We are proud to have helped Michiganders recover a record $10 million in unclaimed life insurance benefits. You can reach DIFS by calling 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by visiting Michigan.gov/DIFS."

DIFS, the state agency responsible for regulating the insurance and financial services industries in Michigan, created the LIAS program to help those who cannot find information about their deceased loved one's life insurance policies or annuity contracts. In 2023, DIFS staff processed 1,730 LIAS requests, resulting in more than $10 million for 139 claimants. Since the program's launch, LIAS has recovered nearly $38 million for Michiganders.

DIFS can also help Michiganders with their life insurance or annuity concerns by:

• Providing publications, shopping tips, locators, and other information about buying life insurance or annuities in Michigan on the DIFS Life and Annuities website.
• Reviewing and acting on consumer complaints involving insurance companies, agencies, and agents. Consumers are encouraged to first attempt to resolve disputes directly with their insurance company or agent, but if a resolution cannot be reached DIFS can help try to resolve your dispute. Complaints can be filed online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.
• Operating the DIFS Call Center, where Michiganders can speak with a live specialist Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 877-999-6442. DIFS can also be reached via email at [email protected].

For more information on LIAS, call 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., visit Michigan.gov/LIAS, or email [email protected]. A national resource is also available from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners at EApps.NAIC.org/Life-Policy-Locator.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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