Accelerated UW: Set Your Clients Up for Success

Accelerated underwriting is just that – accelerated but still underwritten. To ensure your client’s goals are met and you do not sabotage other possibilities by not applying with the right carrier the first time, consider the following points.

Qualify first

  1. Does the client need the policy as soon as possible? Accelerated underwriting, or fluidless underwriting, implies the process is fast given most programs offer the possibility of no exam, if the client qualifies. Some carriers, however, will order medical records, which can slow down the accelerated pace.
  2. Is the insured comfortable with an electronic application process? If not, your options will be limited.
  3. Insured Age, amount, and product requested? Check age and amount guidelines.
  4. Applied for any life insurance, disability insurance, or long-term care insurance in the last 12 months? If so, was an exam completed? If not, provide details.
  5. What coverage is currently in force and with which carriers? If the client has over the threshold with one carrier, then that will eliminate that one off the bat.
  6. Any health issues, build, tobacco status, medications, etc.? Be sure to check knock out guides.
  7. Did you provide a disclaimer upfront? It’s important to let the client know this is the best option based on information provided, but accelerated underwriting or exam free is not guaranteed.


They can’t hide

Even though it might say accelerated underwriting, there’s a lot of information a carrier can get without an exam or medical records from the client – prescription history report, motor vehicle report, and even an electronic platform showing diagnosis codes listed by doctors – to name a few. 

BOTTOM LINE
For either accelerated or fluidless underwriting to be successful, your client must be honest and as the broker you have to keep up with carrier guidelines and place them with the best carrier to fit their needs.

Marie King Colbert, CFP, CLTC, Brokerage Manager at MRW Financial Brokerage, has over 13 years of experience in life insurance, annuity, and long-term care. Serving independent advisors with case design, sales support, and underwriting to meet their clients’ goals.