How to Notify Nationwide of a Death
Phone or online. Notify Nationwide to receive a claims packet with the forms and documents needed for your specific policy.
Nationwide — contact info
- Estate / bereavement phone
- 800-848-6331
- Hours
- Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET
What Nationwide requires
Death certificate
Issued by an authorized government agency — a funeral director can often help obtain a copy.
Claim forms
Provided in the claims packet after notification; the exact forms depend on the policy type.
What to expect
Processing time: A Nationwide CARE Team representative reaches out within 3 business days of the claim being filed.
A letter you can send Nationwide today
Nationwide [Insurance Company Address] 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.
Nationwide death notification FAQ
How do I notify Nationwide of a death?
Phone or online. Notify Nationwide to receive a claims packet with the forms and documents needed for your specific policy.
What documents does Nationwide require?
Death certificate — Issued by an authorized government agency — a funeral director can often help obtain a copy. Claim forms — Provided in the claims packet after notification; the exact forms depend on the policy type.
How long does the process take with Nationwide?
A Nationwide CARE Team representative reaches out within 3 business days of the claim being filed.
What if my loved one had other accounts besides Nationwide?
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 Nationwide's official website on July 18, 2026. Requirements, contact info, and processes change — confirm current requirements with Nationwide's official page before relying on this guide. Estate Assist provides general information, not legal advice.