Field Underwriting

Accurately recording the applicant's statements and reporting observable risk factors in the agent's report — Field underwriting is the agent's role: interview the applicant, record answers accurately, observe signs of health or risk (such as a dangerous occupation or hobby), and report findings to the home office. The insurer's underwriters make the issue decision, assign the risk class, and review medical evidence. An inaccurate agent's report distorts the underwriting process and can lead to rescission later. The agent's observations and truthful recording are essential inputs the underwriter relies upon.

National insurance concept

Asking questions, completing the application accurately, and reporting the risk to the insurer — Field underwriting is the first step in the underwriting process. The agent asks health and lifestyle questions, completes the application accurately, collects the initial premium, and reports observations about the applicant's character and risk to the home office. The agent's report helps the insurer decide whether to issue the policy. Final risk classification, premium setting, and the appointment of examiners are functions of the home office underwriters, not of the field agent. Because field underwriting happens before the home office review, an inaccurate application or a missed hazard can never be caught later; the agent's thoroughness is therefore the quality of the entire underwriting process.

National insurance concept