If your life insurance application is denied, do not assume that coverage is unavailable. A denial from one carrier is not a universal determination — different carriers have different underwriting guidelines, and the same applicant may be approved by another carrier. Taking the right steps after a denial can help you find coverage and potentially save money.
First, understand why you were denied. Carriers are required to provide a written explanation of the reason for denial. Review this carefully to understand which specific factors led to the decision. If the denial was based on medical records (an Attending Physician Statement or APS), you have the right to obtain a copy of those records to verify their accuracy. If there are errors in the records, correcting them may change the outcome.
Second, work with a licensed agent in our network who represents multiple carriers. An experienced agent can analyze the denial reason and identify carriers with more favorable guidelines for your specific situation. For example, if you were denied for a BMI of 42, an agent might know a carrier that accepts applicants up to BMI 45. If you were denied for a DUI 3 years ago, an agent might know a carrier that has a 2-year lookback period.
Third, consider alternative products. Simplified issue policies may approve applicants that fully underwritten policies decline. Guaranteed issue policies accept all applicants within eligible age ranges. Group life insurance through an employer typically has no individual underwriting. These alternatives may have higher premiums or lower coverage amounts but provide important protection.
Fourth, consider waiting and reapplying. If the denial was based on a recent health event, a specified waiting period may make you eligible. If it was based on a controllable factor (weight, blood pressure, A1C), improving that factor and reapplying can change the outcome.