

When a loved one passes away, it's essential to notify relevant insurance companies to manage or cancel their policies. In Ireland, this process involves reviewing and addressing all types of insurance policies, including life, health, motor, and homeowner's/renter's insurance. Each of these policies may have specific procedures or requirements that must be followed to ensure proper management and avoid any potential issues.
Life Insurance
In Ireland, life insurance policies often serve as a financial safety net for the deceased's beneficiaries. To initiate a claim, the insurer must be notified as soon as possible, typically within a few weeks of the death. You'll need to provide the insurer with a death certificate and the original policy document. It's also worth checking if any additional benefits, such as funeral expenses, are covered under the policy.
Health Insurance
Health insurance providers in Ireland, such as VHI, Laya Healthcare, or Irish Life Health, should be informed of the death to cancel the policy or update family plans. If the deceased was the policyholder and other family members were covered under their plan, you may need to arrange for a new policy or transfer the existing one. In some cases, health insurance providers may offer a grace period during which coverage continues for dependents, giving them time to make alternative arrangements. Below is a template email for insurance companies
Car/Motor Insurance
It's crucial to inform the motor insurance provider promptly, as the insurance policy is generally tied to the individual named on it. In Ireland, if the deceased was the sole driver, the policy will likely need to be cancelled. However, if other drivers were named on the policy, you might be able to continue the coverage by updating the policy details.
House Insurance
House insurance is particularly important to address, especially if the property becomes unoccupied following the death. In Ireland, most house insurance policies have specific conditions regarding unoccupied properties. Typically, if a house is left vacant for more than 30 days, it may no longer be covered under the standard terms, or additional terms and premiums may apply. It is essential to inform the insurance company as soon as possible to avoid any lapses in coverage. We have provided a template below for your convenience.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation. No liability whatsoever is accepted by Simple Probate from any action taken in reliance of the information contained on this website. |