Letters Claiming You Inherited Unclaimed Life Insurance Money Are a Scam
Scammers are sending letters claiming to be from law firms, saying a client with your last name died and left millions in life insurance proceeds with you named as heir. The letter proposes splitting the funds between you, charities, and the law firm. The policy does not exist, and the letter is not from a lawyer — if you respond, the scammers will try to collect your personal and financial information or ask for processing fees.
This works because it preys on temptation. The "same last name" detail makes the letter feel personal and credible, but receiving millions from a stranger you never met is the hallmark of an inheritance scam.
What to look for
- A letter from an unfamiliar law firm claiming you are an heir to a life insurance policy
- The claim that the deceased client simply shares your last name
- A request to split proceeds among you, charities, and the law firm
- Any ask for personal information, bank details, or upfront fees to "release" the funds
What to do
Do not respond. Throw the letter away and warn family members — especially older relatives — that these letters are scams.