So, in order for a policy to pay out a death benefit, the life insurance must be "In Force", meaning all premiums are paid up to date.
In addition, the insured person must have passed away.
And, the beneficiary must make a claim for death benefits on the life insurance policy by contacting the insurance company to make a claim.
The insurer will require that some forms are completed and a death certificate of the insured person is sent to the insurer.
Upon review of the required information, the insurer will issue a check and send it to the beneficiary to pay the death benefits owed on the policy.