If the insured person dies by suicide, most life insurance policies will not pay the death benefit if the death occurs within the policy's suicide exclusion period, typically the first two years of coverage. After that waiting period has passed, the insurer generally pays the benefit, unless the policy specifically excludes suicide altogether.
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Standard suicide exclusion period
Most U.S. policies include a clause that voids the claim for suicide committed within 24 months of the policy's start date. This is intended to prevent people from buying coverage with the intent to end their lives shortly after.
What happens after the exclusion period
Once the exclusion period expires, the insurer treats a suicide like any other cause of death and pays the agreed‑upon benefit to the named beneficiaries, provided the policy is in force and premiums are current.
Exceptions and variations
Some policies may have longer exclusion periods or may exclude suicide entirely, especially for certain high‑risk occupations or ages. State laws also affect how exclusions are enforced; a few states limit the length of exclusion periods or require clearer disclosure.
Impact of policy type
Term life, whole life, and universal life policies all follow the same basic rule, but riders such as accelerated death benefits may have separate provisions for suicide.
Key considerations for beneficiaries
- Confirm the policy's start date and any suicide clause.
- Check whether premiums were up to date at the time of death.
- Understand state‑specific regulations that might affect the claim.