Cockatoo guide

Death benefits: policy ownership and payment

A death benefit is an amount payable after a qualifying death under an insurance policy or benefit arrangement.

A death benefit is an amount payable after a qualifying death under an insurance policy or benefit arrangement.

The distinction that matters

Ownership, beneficiary rules and superannuation payment processes can differ.

What to check

  • Identify the policy owner.
  • Check nominations and eligibility.
  • Read exclusions and claim evidence.

Example to discuss

A family checks whether payment is made under a personally held policy or through a superannuation trustee.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide