Simplified issue life insurance is coverage that is underwritten using a shortened application and limited underwriting tools, typically without a paramedical exam or extensive attending physician statements. Insurers rely on health questions, prescription databases, MIB reports, and sometimes instant decision engines to assess risk quickly. Face amounts are usually lower than fully underwritten policies, and premiums may be higher per unit of coverage due to the reduced underwriting scrutiny. Simplified issue life insurance can be term, whole life, or final expense coverage and is popular in markets where speed, convenience, and moderate benefit amounts matter more than rock-bottom pricing.

Advisors recommend simplified issue life insurance when clients want coverage in place quickly, are reluctant to complete exams, or have moderate health issues that make full underwriting uncertain. It is common in mortgage protection, final expense, and small business key-person cases with time-sensitive needs. Online and call-center distribution channels frequently use simplified issue products to enable same-day decisions. Advisors must explain trade-offs: limited face amounts, possible higher premiums, and narrower underwriting windows. Understanding simplified issue life insurance helps advisors match the right process and product to each client's tolerance for underwriting, urgency, and budget.