Death Benefit

/ˈdɛθ ˌbɛnɪfɪt/

Definitions

  1. (n.) A sum payable upon the death of the insured, typically under a life insurance policy or pension plan.
    The policyholder's beneficiaries received the death benefit after his passing.
  2. (n.) The monetary amount paid by a pension or retirement plan to a beneficiary upon the member's death.
    The employee’s retirement plan provided a death benefit to her spouse.

Forms

  • death benefit
  • death benefits

Commentary

Commonly used in insurance and employee benefits law, the term specifies a contractual payment triggered by death, distinct from other benefits like survivor benefits.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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