Life insurance
Divorce and life insurance: court orders, beneficiaries and what to update
A divorce settlement may require one or both people to keep life insurance, for child support or alimony. Beyond that, update your beneficiaries, because an ex-spouse can stay on a policy until you change it.
What the agreement may require
- A set amount of coverage for a set number of years.
- Naming the ex-spouse, or the children, as beneficiary.
- Proof each year that the policy is in force.
After the divorce
Review every policy, including ones through work, and check who is named. Unless a court order says otherwise, update the beneficiaries to match your wishes, and keep a copy of your order.
Have this ready when you call
- Your divorce agreement
- Your current policies
- Names of the people you want to name
Common questions
Can I be required to buy life insurance?
A divorce agreement can require it. Read yours carefully.
Do some states automatically remove an ex-spouse?
Some do, for some policies. Do not rely on it. Update the form.
Related answers
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Information on this site is educational and does not guarantee eligibility, enrollment, pricing, or availability. It is not a recommendation to buy any specific plan or policy.