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Life Insurance Basics
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What is underwriting?
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What is underwriting?
What is underwriting?

After you submit an application, underwriting begins. Underwriting is the process life insurance companies use to determine whether they are able to offer life insurance coverage to applicants, and the premiums they charge. Factors including an applicant’s age, sex, health, lifestyle, contribute to the life insurance company’s decision.

Related Questions
When should I get life
insurance?
Major life milestones often signal it’s time for life insurance and policies cost more as you age.
Is Guaranteed Issue Whole Life right for
me?
This policy option is best for people over the age of 65 years old.
What are the benefits of a guaranteed issue whole life insurance
policy?
No medical exams, level premiums, policy builds cash value, and guaranteed approval.
How much coverage do I
need?
Everyone’s needs are different. When purchasing coverage evaluate what you're buying for to determine how much you need.
What kind of life insurance do I
need?
It depends on your situation. You’ll need to understand your coverage needs to decide which type of policy is right.
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©2026 Ethos Technologies Inc. ("Ethos") Ethos operates in some states as Ethos Life Insurance Services. CA license #0L28949; AR license #100164629. Ethos offers policies issued by the carriers listed at Our Life Insurance Carriers | Ethos Life. Products and their features may not be available in all states. Ethos provides its online wills, trusts, and estate planning documents and services through Ethos Estate Planning, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary. Ethos Estate Planning, LLC is not a law firm and does not provide financial, investment, legal, accounting or tax advice. Complimentary W&T services offered through the perks rider not available in WA and SD; W&T services not available in AK and LA.