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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business
Miles Brignall

Why did an insurer make things more difficult after my daughter died?

car, coins and refund form
Reader unable to get refund from Hastings Direct. Photograph: Rosemary Roberts/Alamy Stock Photo/Alamy

My daughter, who had cancer for more than three years, died last November. She had still been driving and just before her death renewed her car insurance with Hastings Direct. She was always full of hope she would overcome her illness.

When I contacted Hastings Direct it said a refund of £371 was due. I confirmed that as there was no will, the cheque would have to be paid directly to me as the close family member dealing with her estate.

The problem is that Hastings keeps sending cheques payable to “the executor” claiming this is the only way it could issue a refund, unless a grant of probate letter was provided. I was then told it could pay up to £250 directly to me. Reluctantly, I agreed just to bring the matter to a close. Now it says the cheque should be paid into my daughter’s bank account, which has been closed. I am frustrated with my dealings with them at this difficult time for the whole family.

NM, Cornwall

Very happy to intervene and, in fairness to Hastings Direct, staff moved very quickly to put this right. They called you to apologise and a cheque has been sent in your name. Let’s hope lessons have been learned.

We welcome letters but cannot answer individually. Email us at consumer.champions@theguardian.com or write to Consumer Champions, Money, the Guardian, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU. Please include a daytime phone number. Submission and publication of all letters is subject to our terms and conditions

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