How can I claim my endowment payout?

[Legal Beagles]

Q I had a 25-year endowment policy with Norwich Union (Aviva), which matured on 12 January. However, despite many attempts to have the money paid into my bank account I was unable to obtain it. I phoned them on countless occasions, but received only an endless mantra of excuses. At one stage I was told they would send me a letter telling me the amount to be paid and the date of payment. I received no such letter. Norwich Union finally handed over the money on 2 February, but I only discovered this on a bank statement. I find Norwich Union's hesitation and arrogance in not observing their side of the contract totally unacceptable. Have you any advice on what to do when my next Aviva endowment policy matures in February next year?
A Your bad experience with Aviva may have been a one-off. Around six weeks before your policy was due to mature you should have received a letter asking you to complete a "maturity instruction form" to tell them what to do with the policy proceeds. Sending back the form would have then generated payment. And this is what should happen with your next endowment. Could it be you didn't receive these communications because Aviva was using an out-of-date address for you? It would certainly be worth checking, and also asking them what you need to do to make sure of a prompt payment in 2010.

• Endowments
• Property
• Mortgages

guardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2009 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds



More...

[gibneb]

Re: How can I claim my endowment payout?

Im having problems with aviva paying out my endowment firstly they sent a claim form three days before the claim date.I sent in all paperwork they ignored me for a fortnight then gave me hard time about the proof of my identity.
Ive since had two patronising phone calls with them one of which needed the services of an interpreter.
Its costing me £100 per month in lost interest and mortgage charges.
Still waiting for my money