Rhode Island Life Insurance Practice Exam

If an insurer discovers material misrepresentations after a policyholder's death, what will generally happen?

1. The policy will be voided

2. The beneficiary will be paid the Death Benefit

3. The insurer will refund the premiums paid

4. The claim will be denied entirely

The correct answer is: The beneficiary will be paid the Death Benefit

In situations where an insurer discovers material misrepresentations after a policyholder's death, it is essential to consider the nature of the misrepresentations and their impact on the policy. Typically, if the misrepresentation is deemed material and relates to the risk that the insurer assessed, the policy may be subject to various outcomes based on the insurer's discretion and state law. In this case, it is crucial to understand that generally, insurers are still required to pay the death benefit to the named beneficiary, assuming that the misrepresentation did not significantly affect the underwriting process. This means if the misrepresentation did not change the overall risk the insurer took on or if the claim would be payable under the circumstances, the insurer will honor the claim and provide the death benefit. The insurer's obligation to pay the death benefit is often guided by principles of good faith and fairness to beneficiaries, who may not have been involved in the misrepresentation. Thus, if the misrepresentation does not impact the essential risk taken on by the insurer, the beneficiary remains entitled to the benefits assured under the policy. Consequently, the correct answer reflects the typical outcome in such cases, affirming that while insurance companies have the right to investigate and address misrepresentations, they still honor