Under M.G.L. c. 175, § 132(11), what must an applicant for reinstatement of a lapsed Massachusetts life policy typically satisfy?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why B is correct
M.G.L. c. 175, § 132(11) governs reinstatement of a lapsed Massachusetts life policy, and its conditions are cumulative: the policyowner applies for reinstatement, furnishes evidence of insurability acceptable to the insurer, and pays the overdue premiums with interest. Reinstatement is a statutory privilege, not an automatic right — the health of the insured is fairly reopened because the lapse interrupted the insurer's risk. Massachusetts consumer guidance from the Division of Insurance likewise describes reinstatement as requiring the arrears plus proof that the insured remains insurable.
Why the other options are wrong
- A) A bare request is not enough; the statute conditions reinstatement on the arrears with interest and evidence of insurability.
- C) Reinstatement restores the existing contract; it does not require a brand-new application fee or restart the arrears.
- D) An insurer-caused lapse may raise other claims, but reinstatement under M.G.L. c. 175, § 132(11) does not depend on proving insurer error.
Memory hook
Arrears plus interest plus insurability — the reinstatement three-part toll.