Simplified underwriting
When you apply for life insurance, part of the process is an “underwriting” review. In underwriting, the insurance company considers your eligibility for coverage and assesses its risk of issuing you a policy. Some life insurance policies require “full medical underwriting,” while others feature “simplified underwriting.” Simplified underwriting has become increasingly popular, because it may shorten the application process considerably. This can help give more people quicker and easier access to the added peace of mind and financial protections that life insurance can help provide. But to fully appreciate these benefits, it’s important to first understand the basics of medical underwriting.
What is medical underwriting?
Medical underwriting is the insurance term for the process of reviewing your health and medical history. It helps determine your eligibility for a particular life insurance policy, and the premium you will be charged. The extent of medical questioning varies widely across the spectrum of life insurance policies.
Some policies require in-depth health questionnaires and physical exams, including lab work. Such a thorough process can take up to a month or more, but it can also give the insurance company more confidence in writing you a policy for a higher face value or a lower premium. This is full medical underwriting.
Other policies, usually offering more limited coverage, may be called “no exam life insurance,” because they require no medical exam, just health information. Some don’t even require a blood test. This is simplified underwriting.
How do I benefit from simplified underwriting?
The main benefit of simplified underwriting is its efficiency. Whether you are a first time buyer or looking to supplement your current coverage, a life insurance policy with simplified underwriting may be the most convenient way to help protect your family’s future:
It can offer you quick and easy access to the coverage you may need.
You’ll have no medical appointments to arrange.
You may have a shorter waiting period for approval.
These kinds of benefits may factor into your decision in choosing a policy; or perhaps they’ll even make the crucial difference for you, in deciding whether to purchase life insurance at all.
Is it easy to find this type of life insurance?
Knowing busy adults of all ages may be drawn to life insurance with simplified underwriting, many insurance companies offer policies in this category. And finding one can be as easy as going online. Try typing “life insurance no medical” into any internet search engine, and you’ll find several options to consider. Many insurance companies offer free information and life insurance quotes on their websites. Some will even allow you to complete your application online in a few minutes.
But how do I choose the right insurance company?
With something as important to your family’s future as life insurance, you’ll want to choose a reputable insurance company that will be there when your family needs it most. Consider a company with the best financial strength ratings over time. It should be financially secure enough to pay your claim. Also consider its reputation for customer relations. A demonstrated track record in customer loyalty is important. Remember, your life insurance policy is only as good as the company that backs it.
This article is provided by New York Life Insurance Company for informational purposes only. This article is not intended to provide tax, legal, financial, or accounting advice. Please consult your own professional for advice specific to your circumstances.
