Filing an annuity claim
Losing a loved one is difficult, so we’re here to make the claims process easy. Our team is committed to making the process simple and will be with you every step of the way.
Three steps for filing your claim
We understand your time is valuable, and we aim to make the process as swift and seamless as possible.
1. Contact us at 1-800-796-3872.
- Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.
- We’ll talk you through the claims process and will send you a package containing all the requirements needed to submit your claim.
2. Complete the provided claim form and gather any requested information.
- Complete and sign the required claim form.
- Gather any other requested information, including a certified death certificate including the cause and manner of death.
3. Return the claim form and any other requirements via regular mail or overnight mail.
Income Annuities
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Deferred Annuities
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Receiving your payment1
Once all requirements are received, we generally process the claim within 5-7 business days. A confirmation letter will be sent outlining the details.
1Not all annuity claims result in payment.
Frequently asked questions
Is more than one original death certificate required if there are multiple beneficiaries and/or multiple contracts?
No. We only require one original death certificate for a claim, regardless of the product or the number of beneficiaries.
Are there additional requirements if the beneficiary is a trust?
If the beneficiary is a trust, we’ll need to confirm the trustee(s) who can act on behalf of the trust. We'll also need the completed and signed Trustee Certification and Disclosure form. The trustee(s) will then complete the claim form provided.
Are there additional requirements if the beneficiary is an estate?
If the beneficiary is an estate, we’ll need a copy of the Letters of Testamentary/Administration naming the executor(s) or personal representative of the estate. Once the executor is confirmed, they can complete the claim form.
Are there additional requirements if the beneficiary is a minor?
If the beneficiary is a minor, we follow the state-specific guidelines for settling a claim to a minor. We'll outline what is required in our claim letter.
Are there additional requirements if the death was outside of the United States?
If the death of a U.S. citizen was outside the United States, we need a Consular Report of Death of a U.S. Citizen Abroad form. Information about this document can be obtained from the U.S. State Department.
What if the primary beneficiary is deceased?
If a primary beneficiary dies prior to the decedent, those benefits will be payable to any other primary beneficiaries still living, unless otherwise stipulated. If there are no additional primary beneficiaries, the benefits will pass to any named contingent beneficiaries. We will need proof of death for all deceased individuals.
Can I transfer my deferred annuity to another company?
You may be able to transfer the death proceeds to another company. There are certain requirements that need to be met. If you have any questions, please contact us. We’ll be happy to help you through this process.
Are the claim forms on your website?
We do not have the claim forms on Symetra.com. To provide the best service, each claim form is specific to the beneficiary and the type of annuity. This form will be included with the claim packet provided to each beneficiary after notice of death. If you have not yet received a claim form, please contact us for assistance.
Note: Any documentation submitted, including death certificates, will not be returned unless specifically requested.
Still have questions?
Contact our Claims Department at 1-800-796-3872.
We're available Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.
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Symetra Life Insurance Company is a direct subsidiary of Symetra Financial Corporation. First Symetra National Life Insurance Company of New York is a direct subsidiary of Symetra Life Insurance Company and is an indirect subsidiary of Symetra Financial Corporation (collectively, “Symetra”). Neither Symetra Financial Corporation nor Symetra Life Insurance Company solicits business in the state of New York and they are not authorized to do so. Each company is responsible for its own financial obligations.
Annuities are issued by Symetra Life Insurance Company, 777 108th Avenue NE, Suite 1200, Bellevue, WA 98004, and are not available in all U.S. states or any U.S. territory.
In New York, annuities are issued by First Symetra National Life Insurance Company of New York, New York, NY. Mailing address is P.O. Box 34690, Seattle, WA 98124.
Consult your attorney or tax professional for legal or tax advice.
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