Can I Get Life Insurance Online? Your Complete Online Life Insurance FAQ
Updated: Sep 22
Can You Get Life Insurance Online? Complete Online Life Insurance FAQ
Learn how online life insurance works, what information you need, whether an exam is required and what happens after you apply.
Online Life Insurance FAQ
Technology has changed how consumers shop for many financial products, including life insurance.
Today, certain life insurance products allow applicants to complete much of the process online.
What is online life insurance?
Online life insurance refers to insurance products where some or all of the application and purchasing process can be completed electronically.
Depending on the product, consumers may be able to:
Request a quote
Answer application questions
Provide health information
Submit an application
Receive underwriting decisions electronically
Complete policy delivery online
Is online life insurance legitimate?
Online life insurance is still insurance.
The policy is issued by an insurance carrier and governed by the policy contract and applicable state insurance laws.
The fact that an application is completed online does not eliminate the importance of reviewing the policy documents.
Do online policies require medical exams?
Some do not.
Certain products use health questions and automated or accelerated underwriting instead of a traditional medical exam.
Other products may require additional information.
How long does an online application take?
Application time varies.
Some streamlined applications can be completed relatively quickly, while applications requiring additional underwriting can take longer.
What information will I need?
Applicants may be asked for information such as:
Date of birth
Address
Occupation
Income
Tobacco use
Health history
Medications
Existing insurance
Beneficiary information
Is online life insurance cheaper?
Not automatically.
Online application technology may make the process more convenient, but premiums still depend on factors such as age, health, coverage amount, policy type and insurer underwriting.
Can I talk to an insurance professional even if I apply online?
Yes. Online convenience and professional guidance are not mutually exclusive.
JRF Services provides online life insurance options while also offering the ability to schedule a conversation for consumers who want personalized assistance.
Should I buy a policy without talking to anyone?
That depends on your comfort level and the complexity of your situation.
If your needs are straightforward, an online process may be convenient.
If you have complicated financial responsibilities, multiple beneficiaries, existing policies or questions about policy types, professional guidance can be useful.
What should I review before accepting a policy?
Review:
Premium
Coverage amount
Policy term
Beneficiaries
Exclusions
Renewal provisions
Conversion provisions
Contestability provisions
Any waiting or graded-benefit provisions
Cash-value provisions, if applicable
Final Thought
Online life insurance can make shopping for coverage more convenient. However, convenience should not replace understanding.
Take the time to understand what you are purchasing and what the policy actually provides.
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