During the policy delivery process, a producer discovers the policy issued has a higher premium than initially quoted due to a rating adjustment. How should the producer proceed at the time of delivery?
When a policy is issued on terms that differ from those originally illustrated or quoted, the producer should clearly explain the rating adjustment when delivering the policy. A higher premium commonly results when underwriting determines that the proposed insured presents a higher mortality risk than initially anticipated.
The producer should explain the revised premium, the underwriting classification reflected in the issued contract, and any material differences between the application-stage proposal and the policy actually delivered. This ensures that the applicant understands what is being accepted and has an opportunity to evaluate the policy on its actual contractual terms.
Delivering the policy without discussing the higher premium would leave a material difference unexplained and could create misunderstanding concerning cost and coverage. The producer also cannot simply disregard the premium adjustment because the premium shown in the issued policy reflects the insurer ' s underwriting decision. Automatically recommending cancellation is likewise inappropriate; the applicant should first receive an accurate explanation and determine whether the issued coverage remains suitable.
Policy delivery is therefore not merely physical transfer of a document. It is an important point for reviewing material contract features and clarifying changes resulting from underwriting.
Study Guide Reference: Life Insurance Basics — policy delivery; underwriting classifications; rated policies; producer responsibilities at delivery.