MetLife found guilty of race-based bias

By Denáe Brewer
Editor-in-Chief

If you have a life insurance policy bought before 1973, you may be entitled to compensation.

Metropolitan Life, one of the country’s leading life insurance companies, acknowledges a class action suit brought against them. The suit claimed that Metropolitan Life (MetLife) unjustly sold policies to Africans-Americans and other non-Caucasians at a higher rate then their Caucasian counter parts.

“I’m not surprised,” said Keno White, a Highbridge resident and a MetLife policyholder. “It’s not only them but all of the insurance companies that charged us more.”

MetLife insurance policies with face values of $1,000 to $5,000 were sold door to door, n predominately African-American communities from 1901 to 1972. Approximately 1.8 million policyholders nationwide are likely to receive benefits.

The settlement cover policies that are currently in force as well as policies that have been terminated by death, endowment and lapse. Heirs and beneficiaries of deceased policyholders may also be eligible for restitution. You do not necessarily need the original policy in order to remain eligible, MetLife says that as long as you have a policy number, they should be able to verify tour eligibility.

Anyone who bought any of these claims before 1973 may be eligible for compensation; They may range from monetary to greater benefits. It all depends on the type of insurance policy you have.

“I urge everyone to check their policy,” Mr. White said. Sending his claim form back almost immediately after receiving it, he reiterated, “If they owe you anything then it is your right to go after them and make sure you get yours.”

MetLife representatives declined to comment until all claims are in and a final settlement is agreed upon.

Policyholders, who feel they are eligible to receive compensation, have until April 23 to file a claim with the class action suit. If you have questions you can call 1-800-960-2381 or write to Settlement Administrator, Thompson v. Metropolitan Life, P.O. Box 61, Minneapolis, MN 55440-8511.