33-22-122. Contents of notice -- proof -- limitation on recovery -- exemptions. - Montana Statutes

     33-22-122. Contents of notice -- proof -- limitation on recovery -- exemptions. (1) (a) The notice of cancellation must state:
     (i) the amount of the premium, installment, or interest due on the policy or certificate;
     (ii) the place where it must be paid; and
     (iii) the name and address of the person or company to which the premium is payable.
     (b) The notice must also state:
     (i) that, unless the premium or other sums are paid to the company or its insurance producer, the policy or certificate will be canceled; and
     (ii) the date, determined in accordance with 33-22-121, on which cancellation will become effective.
     (2) "Policyowner" or "certificate holder", as used in this section, means the owner of the policy or certificate or any other person designated as the person to receive premium notices, as shown by the records of the insurance company.
     (3) If any responsible officer, clerk, or insurance producer of the insurance company authorized to mail the notice states in an affidavit that it is the standard practice of the company to mail to policyowners or certificate holders the notice required by this section, the affidavit is prima facie evidence that the notice has been given.
     (4) An action may not be maintained to recover under a lapsed or forfeited policy or certificate on the ground that the insurance company failed to comply with this section unless the action is instituted within 2 years from the due date upon which default was made in paying the premium, installment, or interest for which lapse or forfeiture is claimed.
     (5) Section 33-22-121 does not apply to:
     (a) group health plans; or
     (b) industrial life or industrial disability policies.

     History: En. Sec. 4, Ch. 723, L. 1985; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 713, L. 1989; amd. Sec. 3, Ch. 384, L. 2003; amd. Sec. 14, Ch. 399, L. 2007.