FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 15, 2021

LDI Corrects False Information About COVID-19 Vaccines and Life Insurance

The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) is urging the public to beware of misinformation circulating on social media sites claiming that receiving a COVID-19 vaccination would result in the death benefit not being paid on existing life insurance policies or would result in an individual not being able to obtain new life insurance. Other rumors suggest that life insurance policies do not cover death due to COVID-19. This information is false.

“These rumors are untrue, and your life insurance investments are not affected by your decision to be vaccinated against COVID-19,” said Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon.

The LDI answers the following frequently asked questions:

Can a life insurance company refuse to pay the death benefit on my existing life insurance policy if I receive a COVID-19 vaccination?

No. Louisiana Law does not permit life insurance exclusions based on the insured person having received a vaccination. Life insurance policy contracts clearly state how the policies work and what, if any, causes might lead to denial of claims. A vaccine for COVID-19 is not a cause for denial, and life insurers do not take into account whether or not a policyholder has received a COVID-19 vaccine in determining whether to pay a claim.

Will receiving a COVID-19 vaccination prevent me from getting life insurance?

No. A COVID-19 vaccination has absolutely no bearing on a life insurer’s decision to pay a claim or issue new coverage.

Can a life insurance company refuse to pay the death benefit on my existing life insurance policy if my death is due to COVID-19?

No. Louisiana Law does not permit life insurance exclusions based on death due to disease or illness.

If you have questions, you can contact LDI Consumer Advocacy at 1-800-259-5300, option 4.

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.