What Happens to Your Foreign Life Insurance Account When You Die
Quick Facts
Type
Foreign life insurance policy
Reporting
Form 3520/3520-A may be required
Payout
Beneficiary receives directly
Step-by-Step Guide
Locate all foreign life insurance policies
Check for life insurance policies issued by non-US companies. These may include employer group policies, standalone policies, or insurance within foreign retirement plans.
File claims with each insurer
Contact each foreign insurance company with the death certificate (apostilled and translated if required). Provide beneficiary identification and claim forms as directed by the insurer.
Determine US tax reporting requirements
Foreign life insurance policies may require reporting on Form 3520, Form 8938, or FBAR depending on the policy structure and cash value. Consult a tax professional.
Document Now Checklist
- Insurance company names and countries
- Policy numbers
- Beneficiary designations
- Death benefit amounts
- Cash value if applicable
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Start your vault — free for 30 daysLast verified: June 2026. Platform policies may change. Verify current procedures directly with Foreign Life Insurance. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Related Guides
Social Security
Social Security must be notified of death immediately. Benefits paid after death must be returned. Survivor benefits may be available.
IRS / Tax Returns
A final individual tax return must be filed for the year of death. Estates over $13.61M may owe federal estate tax.
Veterans Affairs (VA)
Veterans are entitled to burial benefits, a headstone or marker, a burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate — all at no cost.
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