Oklahoma Widow’s Struggle: News 4’s recent investigation reveals the distressing ordeal of an Oklahoma widow, Angelia Wright, who encountered obstacles while attempting to claim her husband’s life insurance. Wright’s husband, Tommy, passed away in February, prompting her to seek the $50,000 life insurance policy she had taken out for him.
Government Agencies Launch Investigation: Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glenn Mulready confirmed that his team is collaborating with the attorney general’s office to delve into this case. The goal of the investigation is to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the unresolved life insurance claims.
Policy Purchase and Red Flags: Six years ago, Angelia Wright purchased life insurance for herself and her husband through the Church of God’s Southeast Oklahoma jurisdiction. She pays $70 per month for two $50,000 life insurance plans. When she initiated the claim process with Lincoln Financial, her insurer, they raised concerns about several “red flags.”
Church Organization’s Involvement: The heart of the issue revolves around Tommy’s relationship with the church organization. The organization had a group policy covering its full-time employees, and Wright’s husband was associated with the church through volunteering. However, volunteers are not considered full-time paid employees.
Policy Termination and Payment Discrepancy: Documents obtained in the investigation revealed that the church organization terminated the policy in March. This action was taken despite Angelia Wright’s monthly premium payments. Lincoln Financial’s letter indicated that Tommy’s name was not listed on the group’s senior list when he filed his claim in April 2023. Moreover, the insurer claimed not to have received his life insurance payment.
Coverage Limitations and Conflicting Dates: According to the letter from Lincoln Financial, the policy solely covers full-time employees of the church organization. The insurer’s letter also pointed out that when Tommy Wright filed his claim, his name was absent from the senior list. Additionally, a registration form submitted later listed a conflicting effective date of coverage.
Widow’s Concerns: Angelia Wright’s pursuit of her husband’s life insurance claim has unveiled a series of discrepancies and contradictions regarding the policy’s coverage and the church organization’s involvement. The ongoing investigation seeks to provide clarity and resolution to this complex situation.
