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Difficulty: EasySources of Underwriting Information

While completing a life insurance application, an agent observes the applicant smoking a cigarette, even though the applicant just checked 'No' to the question regarding recent tobacco use. Based on the rules for sources of underwriting information, how must the agent properly communicate this discrepancy to the insurer?

  1. Document the observation regarding the applicant's tobacco use in the Agent's Report.Answer
  2. B
    Cross out the applicant's incorrect answer on the application and change it to 'Yes' before submission.
  3. C
    Void the application immediately because the applicant's answers are guaranteed to be true as warranties.
  4. D
    Request an Attending Physician's Statement (APS) because this physical hazard can only be documented by a doctor.

Answer

Document the observation regarding the applicant's tobacco use in the Agent's Report.
The correct answer identifies the Agent's Report as the appropriate communication channel. The Agent's Report is a confidential document completed by the producer to provide the home office underwriter with personal observations about the applicant's character, lifestyle, and environment, ensuring the insurer has a complete and accurate picture of the risk.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the conflict between the application data and the producer's direct observation.
The applicant claims no tobacco use on the formal application, but the producer visually observes smoking, indicating a hidden physical hazard.
Recognizing discrepancies is the fundamental first step in field underwriting.
2
Determine the correct source of underwriting information for reporting a producer's personal observations.
The Agent's Report (or Producer's Report) is specifically designed for the agent to communicate such findings confidentially directly to the underwriter.
The Agent's Report allows the insurer to evaluate the risk accurately without the agent illegally altering the applicant's sworn statements.

Key Concept

Agent's Report as a Source of Underwriting Information
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Topics

Sources of Underwriting Information

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