West Coast Life Insurance Company: History, Policy Handling, and How to Get Affordable Coverage
Last Updated: November 7, 2025 | Written by President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM
The West Coast Life Insurance Company name has been around for generations.
If you or a family member has an older policy with "West Coast Life" printed on it, or if you’re searching for new coverage under the brand, this guide will explain exactly who the company is today, how its policies work, and how to get service or replacement coverage.
Is West Coast Life Insurance Company Still in Business?
Yes and no.
The brand name West Coast Life Insurance Company no longer sells new life insurance policies under its original name.
However:
West Coast Life was acquired by Protective Life Insurance Company, and all West Coast Life policies are now fully backed and serviced by Protective Life, a major national insurer with an A+ (Superior) financial rating by AM Best.
So your policy is still valid, secure, and backed by a stable company.
The name has changed, but the coverage remains real and enforceable.
Quick Summary
Is West Coast Life still active?
The brand no longer sells new policies, but existing policies are serviced by Protective Life.
Are current policies still valid?
Yes, all policies remain active under Protective Life
Can I buy a new West Coast Life policy?
Not under the original brand, but identical or improved policies are available through Protective Life.
Financial Strength Rating
- A+ (Superior), AM Best (Protective Life)
About West Coast Life Insurance Company (Company History)
West Coast Life was founded in 1906 in San Francisco and became widely known for:
- Affordable term life insurance
- Strong customer loyalty
- Reliable claims-paying reputation
In 1997, the company merged with Protective Life, and over time, the policies and operations were migrated under the Protective Life brand.
Protective continued the West Coast Life culture of stable premiums, long-term guarantees, and family-focused coverage options.
What Types of Policies Did West Coast Life Offer?
If you or a loved one has a West Coast Life policy, it is typically one of the following:
Term Life Insurance
Level term coverage (usually 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 years) with guaranteed premiums.
Universal Life Insurance
Flexible lifetime coverage that can build cash value.
Whole Life Insurance
Permanent coverage with fixed premiums and guaranteed death benefit.
Note: All of these remain active under Protective Life’s administration.
How to Look Up an Existing West Coast Life Insurance Policy
If you are a beneficiary, policyholder, or executor:
Contact Protective Life Policy Services
Phone: 1-800-866-9933
Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 AM – 6 PM (CST)
Be prepared with:
- Policyholder’s full name
- Date of birth (or death, if filing a claim)
- Policy number (if available)
If you do not have the policy number, they can still find it.
Filing a Claim for a West Coast Life Policy
The claims process is straightforward:
- Call Protective Life at 1-800-866-9933
- Request the beneficiary/claims packet
- Submit the required documents (claim form + death certificate)
- Claims are typically paid within 5–10 business days
Protective Life is known for prompt claim fulfillment.
Can You Still Buy Coverage Similar to a West Coast Life Policy?
Yes — the closest equivalent today is Protective Life term or permanent life insurance.
Protective is known for:
- Some of the lowest term life rates in the U.S.
- Flexible permanent life policies
- Strong customer satisfaction
- Long-term rate guarantees
If you liked West Coast Life’s policies, Protective is the direct successor and offers nearly identical (or better) coverage today.
Get a Custom Life Insurance Quote
If you want, I can compare the same carriers that replaced West Coast Life, including:
- Protective Life
- Pacific Life
- Mutual of Omaha
- Legal & General (Banner Life)
Just request a free life insurance quote comparison today.
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Resources:
- Learn How a Term Life Insurance Policy Works
- Use a Term Life Insurance Needs Calculator
- Tips for Buying a Term Life Insurance Policy
- A.M. Best Company: Compare financial strength ratings of life insurance companies
- Life Happens.org: Learn about life insurance and review facts.
- Investopedia: Learn more about financial planning with term life insurance.
About Our Methodology
Reviewed By: President of Term Life Online – AU, AAI, ARM
- 30+ years of experience in insurance planning
How We Keep This Guide Accurate: We regularly updates our content to reflect the latest rates and industry trends. We are committed to providing transparent, unbiased information to help you make the best decision for your family.
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