Start with Washington’s insurance regulator
The Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner publishes a consumer guide to life insurance and information on how life insurance works. Use those resources when evaluating a sales explanation and preparing questions about a policy.
Check Washington availability
Ask the agent to identify their current authorization for Washington, the issuing company, and the precise product available in the state. A quote or product description written for another state is not enough to establish the terms of your offer.
Keep the proposed contract name, quote date, benefit amount, premium schedule, and underwriting assumptions together. If any field is missing, request it before treating two quotations as comparable.
Plan for the arrangements you want
Ask providers in the area where arrangements would take place for itemized estimates. Record whether each estimate includes the services, transportation, and cemetery or cremation arrangements you want. Avoid relying on a statewide figure that does not explain what is included.
If family members live elsewhere, decide who would coordinate arrangements and keep the relevant contact information with your planning documents. Discuss that plan before choosing an insurance amount.
Questions for a policy comparison
- What must happen for coverage to become effective?
- Is the death benefit limited during an initial period?
- Which policy provisions could affect a claim?
- What payment is required and what is guaranteed?
- How would the new policy differ from coverage already in place?
For health-related questions, ask which product’s application and underwriting requirements apply. A general description of a health condition should not be treated as an approval decision.
Read further
Use our final expense guide, comparison worksheet, and rate comparison guide. The complete directory links to additional topics.
Ask Larry about current Washington availability. Confirm licensing and product eligibility before proceeding with an application.