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Individual annuities beneficiary claim center

We know how hard it is to lose a loved one. That's why we've made the entire claims process as quick and easy as possible.

Here’s everything you need to know about settling your claim:

1

Report a loved one's passing

Give us a call at 1-877-543-2363 or you can report it online

Once we are notified, a representative will then validate your information, and for your protection, all activity on the contract will be suspended until the claim is settled. And don’t forget, after initiating your claim, the death certificate must be mailed or faxed in prior to discussing any contract specific information over the phone.

How to navigate the claims package

2

Review your settlement options

Here’s a brief overview of the settlement options that may be available to you. These may be limited depending on the line of business and your relationship to the deceased. For more details, please refer to your claims package.

To receive a lump sum:

Express Claims

If you’re choosing a lump sum, this offers a simpler, more streamlined process with a fast payout and no paperwork.

Learn more

To be eligible, you must meet all of the following requirements. Please note, other requirements not listed may limit your eligibility.

  • You are an individual
  • You elect a one-time lump sum 
  • Your portion is $100K or less 
  • You are a U.S. citizen 
  • You have the death certificate 
  • You’ll be present on the call

To get your Express Claim started, give us a call at 1-877-543-2363.

Cash settlement

If you don’t qualify for an Express Claim, you can still receive a lump-sum payment via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) or paper check.

Safe Access Checking Account

This deposits your funds into an interest-bearing checking account managed by John Hancock.

Or to continue your contract:

If you prefer to keep your funds invested at John Hancock instead of receiving a lump sum payment, these other options may be available to you:

Spousal continuation

This allows a spouse to continue the existing contract as their own or in their own name.

Extended beneficiary account

In some scenarios, this allows a spousal or non-spousal beneficiary to continue a contract as an inherited or beneficiary contract if they qualify depending on the line of business. If this option is chosen, an annual distribution will be required.

Settlement account

This contract will remain open for a period of either 5 or 10 years, depending on the line of business and the type of beneficiary. It does not require an annual distribution, but all funds must be withdrawn by the end of the 5 or 10 year period.

Annuitization

This converts the death benefit into a guaranteed stream of income consisting of regular, recurring payments guaranteed for a certain number of years or for life. This option also depends on the beneficiary type and the line of business.

3

Submit your forms 

Once completed, there are several ways to send us your paperwork:

 

Online – Call 1-877-543-2363 to request a link for online submission.

Fax – 1-617-663-3389

Mail – John Hancock, Annuities Service Center, PO Box 55444, Boston, MA 02205-5444

Or if the annuity is a New York contract, you’ll need to send it to PO Box 55445, Boston, MA 02205-5445

Here are some helpful videos:

How to complete IRS Form W-9

How to complete the annuity claim form 

How to complete the annuity claim form online

4

Settle your claim

Each beneficiary must complete and submit their paperwork before the claim can be settled. Once received, our team will look it over and contact you if they have any questions or if any additional paperwork or documents are required. Then after everything is processed, they’ll send your payout via the delivery method you chose. Or if you’re continuing the contract, they’ll provide you with a confirmation letter with your new account information.

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Take a look at our most frequently asked questions:

What if a beneficiary's name has changed?

Documentation to substantiate the change must be submitted; for example, a copy of a divorce decree or marriage certificate.

What if the beneficiary is a minor?

If the proceeds are less than $10,000, John Hancock will generally allow parents of a minor beneficiary to claim the proceeds upon presentation of the minor’s birth certificate. Generally for proceeds of $10,000 or more, a court-appointed guardian or conservator of the minor’s property must submit the claim. For your state requirements, please contact an Annuity Claim Representative.

When do I need to complete IRS Form W-9 versus IRS Form W-8?

Each beneficiary who is a U.S. person must certify their taxpayer identification number and tax status on the claim form or submit a properly completed IRS Form W-9. If a beneficiary is not a U.S. citizen, U.S. resident alien or other U.S. person, that beneficiary must submit a separate properly completed IRS Form W-8 instead. There are different Forms W-8 depending on the beneficiary’s status. Please refer to the instructions on Forms W-9 and W-8 on how to complete each form. You can obtain copies of the forms and their instructions on the IRS website.

What are Letters Testamentary or a Letter of Administration?

Letters Testamentary or a Letter of Administration are a state’s court appointment of a person to act as executor or administrator of an estate. If the beneficiary is an estate, the Annuity Claim Form must be signed by the court-appointed representative.

View full list of FAQs

Need to get in touch? We’re here for you.

View all contact information

This information is not intended to serve as, and does not constitute, tax advice. Please contact your own tax professional with any questions about your personal tax situation.

 

Guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.

 

John Hancock Annuities are issued by John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), Lansing, MI 48906, which is not licensed in New York. In New York, John Hancock Annuities are issued by John Hancock Life Insurance Company of New York, Valhalla, NY 10595. John Hancock Variable Annuities are distributed by John Hancock Distributors LLC.


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