---
title: "What Is Contestability Period? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "The contestability period is the first two years after a policy starts, during which the carrier can review the application and deny a claim for a..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/contestability-period
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Policy mechanics

# Contestability Period

The contestability period is the first two years after a policy starts, during which the carrier can review the application and deny a claim for a material misstatement. Many states set this limit.

## Why it matters

If the insured dies in this window, the carrier often checks the application and medical records. Honest mistakes can still cause problems if they were material. After the period, the carrier can generally contest only for fraud, depending on state law. Agents must record answers exactly, and families should never guess or hide health facts.

Source: [naic.org](https://content.naic.org/article/consumer-insight-life-insurance-roadmap)

[Read next, for familiesHow do you file a life insurance claim after a loved one dies?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-file-a-life-insurance-claim)

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