Understanding the Process
We want to make the process of applying for life insurance simple, informative and responsive to your needs. Below we have listed the simple steps of the application process and explained the underwriting classifications that insurance companies use when determining eligibility. Throughout the process, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns. WE ARE HERE TO HELP!
1. Complete the enclosed life insurance application request form and return it to us by fax or mail using the postage paid envelope provided. For on-line processing you can visit our website at www.ainsurancepro.com and “click” on Life Insurance and select the “request application” option. We will even take the application information over the phone if that is more convenient.
2. We will review your request form, transfer the information to the appropriate company’s application and forward it to you for your signature.
3. Your paramedical exam will be scheduled, at your convenience, within a few days after submitting your application request form. The exam is at no cost to you. Since the results of the exam help determine the underwriting classification and the cost of your policy, we have listed below several tips to assure favorable results:Do not eat 8 – 12 hours prior to exam.
- Avoid food high in salt or fat.
- Limit coffee, tea or any caffeine 2 hours prior to exam.
- Refrain from alcoholic beverages 24 hours prior to exam.
- Be well rested and avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to the exam.
- Avoid nasal decongestants and pain medications (aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen) up to 8 hours prior to the exam.
4. Once you receive the application via mail, please review it and sign at the locations noted. Remember to have a witness sign if requested. The examiner will pick up the application at the time of your exam. To avoid costly delays, please bring the application to your exam . . . otherwise the examiner will have to reschedule.
5. Once your exam is completed and the application is returned to us, the selected insurance company will review all pertinent data and upon approval, we will forward the policy for your review. Once approved, we will forward a policy for your review. Once your application has been received the average time for approval and policy delivery is 4 – 6 weeks.
6. During the application process the selected insurance company will determine your eligibility based on a variety of personal attributes including; age, family history, current and past health history, driving record, height, weight, life style, avocation and tobacco usage. Final ratings usually fall within three categories: Preferred Plus, Preferred and Standard
Preferred Plus – This category is used for applicants in excellent health and have no negative underwriting results. Cholesterol readings generally are under 200, with no treatment for hypertension, elevated cholesterol or other health related factors. An individual must have no history of tobacco use in the past five years, limited risky avocations and no family history of cancer or heart disease death prior to age 60.
Preferred – This category is used for those applicants who are in excellent health but have one or two minor deviations from the Preferred Plus category. Cholesterol levels generally up to 240 – 250 are acceptable and there must be no tobacco use for three years.
Standard – This category is used for those applications who have major deviations from the Preferred classification. It can be caused by any disqualifications from the Preferred category that is substantial in nature and is usually ongoing and/or recent in occurrence.