Four Tips for Expert Field Underwriting in a Virtual Environment

With the current environment changing daily due to COVID-19, it is imperative that we utilize virtual tools and temporary measures to be able to continue to service your clients.

Field Underwriting is not new, but working 100% virtually is! Here are tips from our Underwriting team on how to effectively field underwrite while not meeting face-to-face.

1. Gather Information Beforehand

Before meeting with your client, do research. Get a general idea of their history; both medical and non-medical. This will allow you to properly quote a client and set the expectation up front. If you are unsure, submit a risk assessment to our quick quotes box: underwritingquotes@nationallife.com.

Utilize the field underwriting guide (recently updated to include BasicSecure Fixed Universal Life) that is available online – there are guidelines on many conditions as well as a section on risks that may not be considered.

2. Review Remote Guidelines

Review and become familiar with our remote application requirements. Currently, there is no face amount limit for accepting remote applications. Applications can be taken over any acceptable video conferencing method as well as via phone, email, or text messages. For face amounts over $3 million, or if the application is taken over phone, email or text, the client will need to upload a selfie with their photo ID.

3. eApp Completion Tips

Allow our application to work for you. The eApp has built-in drop-down menu selections with pre-populated answers to help make completing the application easier. Completing the reflexive questions and thoroughly questioning the client on all history may help decrease the underwriting turnaround time which results in a faster decision.

If completing an application via video conferencing, review the applicant’s surroundings. Is anything out of place? Do they appear physically well? Did they apply for non-smoker rates, but their surroundings suggest otherwise? This will help protect against anti-selection.

4. What if the Exam Office is Closed?

Per the routine underwriting requirements, there is a need for an exam. But what do you do if the exam office is closed?

• Has the client been seen by a physician in the last 12 months?
• Do they have access to their patient portal?

Underwriting is here to work with you during this time to ensure we can properly assess the applicant while looking for solutions.