How to Find Out If Someone Has Life Insurance

Life insurance can provide vital financial protection for loved ones after a person’s death. But what happens if a family member passes away — and you’re not sure whether they had a policy?

This situation is more common than most people think. At DeFazio Insurance Brokerage, Inc., a California-based life insurance provider, we often hear questions like:

“How do I find out if someone had life insurance?”

“Is there a way to check if a deceased relative had a policy?”

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find out if someone had life insurance in California — and how to track down the policy if one exists.

1️⃣ Search the Person’s Documents and Records

Start by going through the deceased person’s:

Files and folders (physical or digital)

Safe deposit boxes

Mail and email correspondence

Bank statements (look for regular premium payments)

Many people keep a copy of their life insurance policy or at least the contact details of their insurer somewhere secure. Even finding a company name or business card can provide a valuable lead.

2️⃣ Contact Their Employer or Former Employers

Many employers include group life insurance as part of their employee benefits package. Contact the HR departments of:

The deceased’s most recent employer

Prior employers from the last 5–10 years

Ask whether the person had active or expired coverage and if any beneficiaries were designated.

3️⃣ Use the California Department of Insurance (CDI) and NAIC Policy Locator

The California Department of Insurance (CDI) regulates all life insurance companies doing business in the state. While it doesn’t maintain its own registry, it participates in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Life Insurance Policy Locator.

How the NAIC Policy Locator Works:

Submit a request as a beneficiary, executor, or legal representative.

The NAIC forwards your request to participating insurance companies.

If a match is found, the insurer will contact you directly.

👉 You can start your search here: NAIC Life Insurance Policy Locator

4️⃣ Contact Insurance Companies Directly

If you have any clues — such as a policy number, a payment receipt, or correspondence from a specific insurer — contact that company directly.

Be prepared to provide:

The deceased’s full legal name

Date of birth and Social Security number

Date of death and a copy of the death certificate

Most insurers have a dedicated claims or policy verification department that can confirm if coverage existed.

5️⃣ Check with Financial Advisors, Attorneys, or Estate Planners

If the deceased worked with a:

Financial advisor

Estate planning attorney

CPA or tax preparer

These professionals may have knowledge of the person’s life insurance plans and can help you locate policy information.

6️⃣ Review Tax Returns and Bank Transactions

Search the deceased’s:

Past tax returns (insurance premiums may be noted)

Bank and credit card statements (for recurring payments to insurers)

This can help identify which insurance company the person used and whether their coverage was still active.

🏁 Final Thoughts

If you’re trying to locate a life insurance policy after someone’s passing, don’t get discouraged. The process can take time, but tools like the NAIC Policy Locator and assistance from financial professionals can make it much easier.

At DeFazio Insurance Brokerage, Inc., we encourage all clients to keep their policies organized and ensure their loved ones know where to find them. If you’re unsure about your own coverage — or need help setting one up — we’re here to help.

💬 Need Guidance?

If you’re in California and need help locating a policy or creating one to protect your family’s future, reach out today.

Andrew DeFazio – Independent Life Insurance Broker
📧 Email: andrew@defaziolife.com

📱 Call/Text: (916) 715-3375

🌐 Website: www.defaziolife.com

DeFazio Insurance Brokerage, Inc. — helping California families find, understand, and secure life insurance with clarity and compassion.