How do I collect and distribute life insurance proceeds when no beneficiary is named in North Carolina?

Detailed Answer

When a life insurance policyholder dies without naming or maintaining a living beneficiary, North Carolina law directs insurers to pay the death benefit into the insured’s estate. Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 58-55-20(b)(1), the insurer treats the estate as beneficiary. The personal representative of the estate then collects the proceeds through the probate process.

Once proceeds enter the estate, you must probate the will or open an intestate estate if no will exists. North Carolina’s intestacy statutes (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 29-14 and following sections) set the order of heirs. The personal representative files an affidavit or petition in the clerk’s office of the county where the deceased lived. After the clerk issues letters testamentary (with a will) or letters of administration (without a will), you present them to the insurer.

The insurer pays the proceeds to the personal representative. The representative deposits funds in the estate account, pays valid debts and expenses, then distributes the remaining balance to heirs or beneficiaries under the will or the law of intestate succession.

Key Steps to Collect and Distribute Proceeds

• Locate the policy: Identify the insurer and policy number. Review beneficiary slots and any change forms.
• Confirm no beneficiary: Ask the insurer for a beneficiary search and get written confirmation.
• Open probate: File the original will (if any) or petition for administration in the county clerk’s office.
• Obtain letters: Secure letters testamentary or letters of administration. These documents prove your authority.
• Submit claim to insurer: Send a certified death certificate, letters and claim forms the insurer requires.
• Receive proceeds: Insurer pays funds to the estate account.
• Pay debts and expenses: Use estate funds to cover final expenses and valid creditor claims.
• Distribute remaining assets: Follow the will or intestacy law to distribute proceeds to heirs.
• Close the estate: File final accounting with the clerk’s office and obtain a discharge.

In some cases, insurers may allow payment to a minor’s guardian or to a court-supervised trust if heirs include minors. Check N.C. Gen. Stat. § 58-55-20 for rules on contingent beneficiaries and trust arrangements.

Contact Pierce Law Group

Collecting and distributing life insurance proceeds without a named beneficiary requires careful compliance with North Carolina probate law. Our attorneys at Pierce Law Group serve families across the State with practical, straightforward guidance. Reach out today for personalized help:

Email: intake@piercelaw.com

Phone: (919) 341-7055

Let us guide you through probate and help you settle the estate efficiently.