A policyowner in Kalamazoo wants to modify a provision of her individual life insurance policy. Under Michigan law, what is required for the modification to be valid?

Why A is correct

Under the Michigan Insurance Code's policy-modification rule for individual policies, no change to the contract is valid unless made in writing and signed by an executive officer of the insurer; neither the producer nor the policyowner can effect a binding change informally. This requirement keeps the contract terms certain and prevents disputes over alleged side agreements. Policyowners should insist on a written endorsement signed by a company officer.

Why the other options are wrong

• B) A verbal agreement with the producer has no effect; agents cannot modify policy provisions.
• C) A handwritten note is not enough unless it is a written change signed by an executive officer of the insurer.
• D) Paying a premium does not amend contract terms; only a written, officer-signed change is valid.

Memory hook

No officer, no signature, no change.