Agent

A person licensed by the state to sell insurance either as an independent agent who represents multiple insurance companies or as a direct agent representing one company. In either case, an agent is paid a percentage of premiums paid as a commission.

Sub-Standard Risk

The status given to a person applying for life insurance who, based on the insurer’s underwriting criteria has the indications of a higher risk because of medical condition, family history or a higher risk life style or occupation.

Whole Life Insurance

A permanent form of life insurance with a guaranteed, fixed death benefit, a guaranteed, fixed premium, and a guaranteed cash value. Whole life insurance never expires as long as the premiums are paid.

Term Life Insurance (Term Insurance)

A death benefit-only life insurance policy that provides a specific amount of coverage for a specific number of years (term), after which the policy will expire.

Underwriting

The process of evaluating the risks and assessing the costs of coverage on an applicant for life insurance. Underwriters consider a number of factors in their assessment including current medical experience as well as the company’s own experience with certain classes of insured.

Universal Life Insurance

A form of life insurance that combines lower-cost insurance with a separate cash value component that allows for greater flexibility in premium payments and the potential to earn higher yields. With a universal life insurance policy, the policyholder assumes the risk of higher insurance costs or lower yields that may require additional premium payments.

Variable Life Insurance

A life insurance contract with separate investment accounts allows policyholders to choose from among different types of investments for their cash value. The policyholder assumes any of the risks associated with the investments; however, with most variable insurance policies, the insurer will guarantee the initial death benefit to be paid regardless of the performance of … Read more

Variable Universal Life Insurance

A life insurance policy that combines the features of a variable life insurance policy with a universal life insurance policy allowing for greater flexibility of premium payments and the potential for higher cash value growth. The policyholder assumes the risk of poor investment performance which could require additional premium payments in order to keep the … Read more

Child Protection Rider

Another rider choice offered by many life insurance companies is the Child Protection Rider (also known as a Child’s Life Insurance Rider). For an additional cost, Child Protection Riders offer value in two key ways: First, a financial cushion in the event that a child passes away. Second, when a child ages out of coverage, … Read more

Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage

An Accidental Death and Dismemberment Rider (AD&D) provides an increased benefit in the event that the policyholder suffers an accidental death or dismemberment. In the event of the unthinkable, an AD&D rider could provide up to double the payout, however, pay close attention to the fine print as these riders tend to include very restrictive … Read more