DIFS Helped Michiganders Recover More Than $8 Million in Life Insurance Benefits in 2024

Media Contact: DIFS-press@michigan.gov
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 2, 2025

(LANSING, MICH) May 2 is National Life Insurance Day and the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is reminding consumers that the Department offers the Life Insurance and Annuity Search Service (LIAS) to help locate lost or forgotten life insurance policies or annuities. In 2024, DIFS recovered more than $8 million in unpaid life insurance and annuity benefits for Michiganders.

“Life insurance and annuity products can provide important financial resources for families after their loved one has passed on. Often, beneficiaries may not know if a policy exists and the benefits go unclaimed,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “DIFS is here to support families during this difficult time by helping locate and recover any unclaimed benefits they are owed. You can reach DIFS by calling 877-999-6442, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or by visiting Michigan.gov/DIFS.”

DIFS created the LIAS program in 2016 to help those who cannot find information about their deceased family member’s life insurance policies or annuity contracts. In 2024, DIFS staff processed 1,666 LIAS requests, resulting in more than $8 million for 110 claimants. Since the program’s launch, LIAS has recovered nearly $46 million for Michiganders.

DIFS can help Michiganders with their life insurance or annuity concerns by:

• Providing publications, shopping tips, locators, and other information about buying life insurance or annuities in Michigan on the DIFS Life and Annuities website.
• Reviewing and acting on consumer complaints involving insurance companies, agencies, and agents. Consumers are encouraged to first attempt to resolve disputes directly with their insurance company or agent, but if a resolution cannot be reached DIFS can help try to resolve the dispute. Complaints can be filed online at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.
• Operating the DIFS Call Center, where Michiganders can speak with a live specialist Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. by calling 877-999-6442. DIFS can also be reached via email at DIFSInfo@michigan.gov.

For more information on LIAS, call 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., visit Michigan.gov/LIAS, or email DIFS-LIAS@michigan.gov. A national resource is also available from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners at EApps.NAIC.org/Life-Policy-Locator.

The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, X, or LinkedIn.

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