How to Notify John Hancock of a Death

Online or phone. Report the death online or by phone, then complete and mail the claim form and required documents to the Claims Department.

John Hancock — contact info

Estate / bereavement phone
888-887-2739
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM ET
Mailing address
John Hancock Life Post Issue - Claims PO Box 55979 Boston, MA 02205
Notify John Hancock online →

What John Hancock requires

  • Claim form for your state

    Select the correct claim package for the decedent's state, complete it, and mail it in.

  • Supporting documents

    The specific list depends on individual circumstances — you'll be notified of any additional requirements after the initial claim is received.

What to expect

Processing time: Funds are generally disbursed within 7–10 business days after John Hancock receives the claim form and any other required information.

A letter you can send John Hancock today

John Hancock
John Hancock
Life Post Issue - Claims
PO Box 55979
Boston, MA 02205

Re: Life Insurance Claim — Insured: Robert J. Sample


Dear Claims Department,

I am writing to initiate a life insurance claim on the above-referenced policy. The insured, Robert J. Sample, has passed away.



I am the personal representative of the estate.

I respectfully request the following:

1. Please send me the required claim forms and a complete list of documents needed to process this claim.
2. Please confirm the current status and details of the policy.
3. Please advise of any deadlines or time-sensitive requirements.

John Hancock death notification FAQ

How do I notify John Hancock of a death?

Online or phone. Report the death online or by phone, then complete and mail the claim form and required documents to the Claims Department.

What documents does John Hancock require?

Claim form for your state — Select the correct claim package for the decedent's state, complete it, and mail it in. Supporting documents — The specific list depends on individual circumstances — you'll be notified of any additional requirements after the initial claim is received.

How long does the process take with John Hancock?

Funds are generally disbursed within 7–10 business days after John Hancock receives the claim form and any other required information.

What if my loved one had other accounts besides John Hancock?

Every institution has its own process and required documents. Estate Assist reads the estate's documents, identifies every institution to notify, and drafts a personalized letter for each one automatically.

Other institutions

Checked against John Hancock's official website on July 18, 2026. Requirements, contact info, and processes change — confirm current requirements with John Hancock's official page before relying on this guide. Estate Assist provides general information, not legal advice.