How to Notify New York Life of a Death
Online or phone. File a claim online ("Report a death") or by calling 1-800-CALL-NYL.
What New York Life requires
Report a death online
Starts the claim process before any documents are required.
Claim number
If you already received a letter with a claim number, register to access your claim online.
A letter you can send New York Life today
New York Life [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.
New York Life death notification FAQ
How do I notify New York Life of a death?
Online or phone. File a claim online ("Report a death") or by calling 1-800-CALL-NYL.
What documents does New York Life require?
Report a death online — Starts the claim process before any documents are required. Claim number — If you already received a letter with a claim number, register to access your claim online.
What if my loved one had other accounts besides New York Life?
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 New York Life's official website on July 18, 2026. Requirements, contact info, and processes change — confirm current requirements with New York Life's official page before relying on this guide. Estate Assist provides general information, not legal advice.