Guarantee Trust (GTL)

Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company (GTL)

• 1936 – Founded: Founded by Richard S. Holson in Chicago, Illinois, during the Great Depression to provide affordable insurance options.
• 1950s – Expansion: The company shifted to specialize in accident and health insurance, moving exclusively to a General Agency distribution model.
• 1967 – Leadership: Richard S. Holson, Jr. took over as Chairman and CEO, continuing the family leadership.
• 1983 – Relocation: GTL moved its home office from Chicago to its current location in Glenview, Illinois.
• 1991 – Innovation: GTL became one of the first carriers to offer life insurance specifically designed to protect individuals diagnosed with HIV.
• 1998 – Acquisition: GTL acquired the health insurance block of Heritage Life Insurance Company (distinct from the GE/reinsurance Heritage).
• 2006 – Product Launch: Pioneered the "Advantage Plus" hospital indemnity plan, filling gaps in Medicare Advantage coverage.
• 2009 – Leadership: Richard S. Holson III became CEO, marking the third generation of family leadership.
• 2019 – Innovation: Launched "Precision Care," a cancer insurance product that included access to genomic sequencing.
• 2024 – Rating: AM Best affirmed GTL's "A-" (Excellent) rating, citing its strong niche in the senior market.

Source: GTL History

‍