A
A modern underwriting process that uses data analytics, prescription history, and motor vehicle records to approve qualified applicants quickly without a medical exam. Healthy applicants can often secure substantial coverage in days rather than weeks.
B
The legal instruction specifying who receives the death benefit when the insured passes away. Designations should be reviewed after major life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child to ensure proceeds go to the intended recipients.
C
The savings component of a permanent life insurance policy that grows tax-deferred over time. Policyholders can borrow against it, withdraw funds, or surrender the policy for its accumulated value. It can serve as a supplemental retirement or emergency resource.
A term life insurance policy that can be converted to permanent coverage without a new medical exam. This feature protects insurability if health changes during the term, making it valuable for younger buyers who anticipate needing lifelong coverage later.
F
A small whole life policy designed to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and end-of-life expenses. Coverage typically ranges from $5,000 to $25,000 with simplified underwriting. It's commonly purchased by seniors who want to avoid burdening family members.
A specialized underwriting approach that evaluates the unique occupational risks faced by police officers, firefighters, and EMTs. Carriers experienced in this niche often offer better rates than standard insurers who classify these professions as high-risk.
G
A provision in some life insurance policies that limits the full death benefit during the first two or three years. If the insured dies during this period from natural causes, beneficiaries usually receive premiums paid plus interest rather than the full payout.
A life insurance policy that accepts all applicants within a certain age range with no health questions or medical exam. Death benefits are typically smaller and may include a graded benefit period. It's often used by those with serious health conditions.
I
A permanent life insurance policy whose cash value growth is tied to a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. It offers upside potential with downside protection through a guaranteed floor, making it a popular tool for tax-advantaged retirement planning.
L
A policy add-on that allows the insured to access a portion of the death benefit while still alive if diagnosed with a terminal, chronic, or critical illness. This feature is especially valuable for first responders facing job-related health risks.
N
A policy that doesn't require a physical exam or bloodwork during underwriting. Approval is typically based on health questions and database checks. This option is popular among veterans with service-connected conditions and first responders with demanding schedules.
R
A term life insurance add-on that refunds all paid premiums if the insured outlives the policy term. Premiums are higher than standard term policies, but it eliminates the 'use it or lose it' concern many buyers have with traditional term coverage.
S
A medical condition the VA has determined was caused or aggravated by military service. These conditions are reviewed during life insurance underwriting, but many insurers offer favorable rates to veterans whose conditions are stable and well-managed.
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance is a low-cost group life insurance program for active-duty military members. Coverage automatically ends shortly after separation from service, which is why many veterans seek civilian replacement policies before their SGLI lapses.
A type of no-exam life insurance that uses a short health questionnaire to determine eligibility. Coverage amounts are usually moderate, and approval can happen within days. It bridges the gap between fully underwritten policies and guaranteed issue coverage.
T
A contractual right within many term policies allowing conversion to a permanent plan before a specified age or deadline. No new health evidence is required, providing flexibility for veterans and first responders whose insurability might change over time.
A type of life insurance that provides coverage for a specific period, typically 10, 20, or 30 years. If the insured passes away during the term, beneficiaries receive the death benefit. It's often the most affordable option for those seeking temporary, high-value coverage.
U
The risk category assigned during the application process that determines premium rates. Classes typically range from Preferred Plus to Standard or Substandard. Factors include health, family history, occupation, hobbies, and lifestyle habits like tobacco use.
V
An official percentage assigned by the Department of Veterans Affairs that reflects the severity of a veteran's service-connected conditions. While it impacts VA benefits, many private life insurers evaluate the underlying conditions rather than the rating itself when underwriting.
Veterans' Group Life Insurance allows separating service members to convert their SGLI into a renewable term policy without a medical exam. Premiums increase with age, often making private term life insurance a more cost-effective long-term option.
W
An optional policy feature that pauses premium payments if the insured becomes totally disabled and unable to work. Coverage remains in force during the disability period. It's a common consideration for those in physically demanding professions.
A permanent life insurance policy that provides lifelong coverage and builds cash value over time. Premiums remain level, and the cash value grows on a tax-deferred basis. It's commonly chosen for estate planning, wealth transfer, and guaranteed long-term protection.