Tips for Making the Paper Application Process Smoother

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Save time and hassle when submitting paper applications and product illustrations by referring to these guidelines that can minimize re-work.

Submitting paper applications

  • Complete the application in a face-to-face setting. 
  • Indicate on the application if you did not have a face-to-face interview with the applicant.
  • A paramedical exam, urine specimen and blood profile will be required if a face-to-face interview did not occur regardless of the age or amount.
  • Please do not sign as Witness if you did not personally witness the signature. Someone who was there at the time should sign as witness.
  • Ask each applicant the questions as worded and record the answers as given without editing.
  • If you have personal knowledge of factors which could present an insurability concern, provide that information to us in a separate letter along with the application.
  • Other than adding your signature as Witness, nothing additional should be added or changed on any application after it has been signed. The only permissible additions would be those initialed by the proposed insured.
  • Any digital images of material must be clear and legible. All text and figures must be legible as printed on an 8 ½” x 11” page at normal (100%) scale. Dark, blurry or unclear images may create delays.
  • Collect premiums with the application if the conditions of the Conditional Life Receipt are met. Please read the conditions carefully. In California and Kansas all questions on the Temporary Life Receipt must be answered “No.”

Submitting illustrations – all products

  • Agent’s name and address must be included on the illustration for all products.
  • All illustration pages must be included and have the same date and time.
    • Pages can easily get shuffled with multiple illustrations – double check!
  • Any digital images of material must be clear and legible. All text and figures must be legible as printed on an 8 ½” x 11” page at normal (100%) scale. Dark, blurry or unclear images may create delays.

Submitting illustrations 

  • Illustration must indicate Basic or Revised in compliance with the NAIC illustration requirements.
  • In NAIC states, applications for illustrated products must be accompanied by either a signed basic illustration or a signed U-588 (no illustration form).
    • NC or PA:
      • The basic illustration or U-588 must be signed on or before the application date; otherwise, we cannot accept the application.
    • NC:
      • Premium amount on the application must match the illustrated premium.
      • Policy changes will NOT be accepted.
      • Increases, Decreases, Withdrawals, Loans (non-1035)
  • If a U-588 is used:
    • If approved as applied for, an unsigned basic illustration is required for issue.
    • If approved other than applied for, an unsigned, revised illustration is required for issue.
    • In both scenarios, if illustrations are unsigned, signatures will be obtained on delivery.
  • For conversions or exchanges:
    • A signed U-588 or a signed basic illustration is required with application.
    • A signed U-588 must include a basic illustration (signed or unsigned) as a guide to issue the policy.
    • Upon delivery, a signed illustration will be requested (even if the previous one was also signed).

Please note: These requirements are subject to change based on subsequent state adoption of the NAIC Model Illustration Regulation or other state specific regulatory requirements.

 

These tips and guidelines should make the application process quicker and easier for you, your agents and their clients. If you have questions, please contact your Protective Life representative.