The Medical Information Bureau (MIB) is a nonprofit organization that maintains a database of medical and lifestyle information reported by member insurance carriers. When you apply for life insurance, the carrier checks the MIB database as part of the underwriting process. If you have previously applied for individual insurance with an MIB member company, any significant health conditions or lifestyle factors (such as tobacco use, hazardous activities, or certain medical conditions) reported by that carrier may appear in your MIB record.
The MIB does not contain medical records, prescription histories, or diagnostic details. Instead, it uses coded entries that flag broad categories of health conditions or risk factors. For example, there might be a code indicating that a previous carrier noted elevated blood pressure or a history of diabetes, but it would not contain specific blood pressure readings or A1C levels. The MIB record serves as a cross-reference tool to help carriers identify inconsistencies between what an applicant discloses on the current application and what was previously reported.
If there is a discrepancy between your application statements and your MIB record, the carrier will investigate further — typically by requesting medical records from your physicians (Attending Physician Statements) or ordering additional tests. A discrepancy does not automatically result in denial, but it does prompt additional review. This is why complete honesty on the application is so important — the MIB record may reveal omissions.
You have the right to request a copy of your MIB record once per year at no charge. Reviewing your record before applying for life insurance can help you understand what carriers will see and prepare to address any entries. If you find errors, the MIB has a dispute resolution process. You can request your record at mib.com.