Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Life Insurance Underwriter – 2025

Are you getting ready for a life insurance underwriter job interview? This guide features a comprehensive list of questions and answers to help you demonstrate your technical knowledge, decision-making skills, and understanding of insurance industry regulations. From underwriting experience to risk assessment abilities, these questions will cover all aspects of the role.

General Questions

• 1. Why do you want to work as a life insurance underwriter?
  A: I have always been interested in insurance and I find the underwriting process to be challenging and rewarding. I believe I have the skills and knowledge to excel in this role and help clients secure the best insurance policies for their needs.
• 2. What do you know about our company and the life insurance products we offer?
  A: Your company has a strong reputation in the insurance industry and offers a wide range of life insurance products. I have researched your company and am impressed by your commitment to customer satisfaction and innovation in product offerings.
• 3. How do you stay updated on the latest industry regulations and practices?
  A: I stay updated through regular reading of industry publications, attending seminars and conferences, and participating in online industry forums and discussions. I also make sure to stay updated on any updates or changes to regulations through relevant government websites.
• 4. How do you handle difficult or demanding clients?
  A: I believe in actively listening to clients and understanding their concerns and needs. I strive to remain calm and professional, and to find solutions that meet both the client's needs and company policies.
• 5. How do you prioritize and manage your workload?
  A: I prioritize my workload by assessing the urgency and importance of each task. I also make a to-do list and regularly review and update it. I am highly organized and efficient in managing my tasks and meeting deadlines.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. What experience do you have with underwriting life insurance policies?
  A: I have been working in the insurance industry for 5 years, and for the past 3 years, I have focused on life insurance underwriting. I have extensive experience in assessing risk, analyzing medical and financial information, and making accurate underwriting decisions.
• 7. How do you assess an applicant's risk level?
  A: I look at a variety of factors, including medical history, lifestyle choices, occupation, and financial stability. I also consider any relevant medical or legal documents and conduct thorough research to make an informed assessment of risk.
• 8. Can you give an example of a time when you had to make a difficult underwriting decision?
  A: One time, I had an applicant with a history of heart disease and diabetes applying for a high-risk life insurance policy. After careful analysis of their medical records and lifestyle habits, I had to decline their application due to the high potential for future claims. It was a difficult decision, but I stand by it as it was in the best interest of the company and its clients.
• 9. How do you handle complex or unusual underwriting cases?
  A: I start by carefully reviewing all relevant information and conducting thorough research. If necessary, I consult with other underwriters and insurance experts to gather different perspectives. I then use my analytical skills and experience to make an informed decision.
• 10. How do you ensure accuracy and consistency in underwriting decisions?
  A: I have a systematic approach to underwriting and use standard procedures and guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy. I also double-check my work and consult with colleagues or superiors if I have any doubts or questions.

Behavioral Questions

• 11. Can you give an example of a time when you successfully resolved a complex underwriting issue?
  A: In a previous role, I encountered an applicant with a complicated medical history that required careful evaluation. After a thorough review and consult with a medical expert, I was able to accurately assess the risk and provide the applicant with an appropriate insurance policy.
• 12. How do you handle high-pressure situations or tight deadlines?
  A: I thrive under pressure and work well with tight deadlines. I remain calm and organized, prioritize my tasks, and work efficiently to ensure that all work is completed on time.
• 13. Tell me about a time when you had to deliver negative news to a client.
  A: In my current role, I had to decline an applicant's life insurance policy due to their high-risk medical status. I approached the situation with empathy and professionalism, explaining the reasons for the decision and offering alternative solutions. The client appreciated my honesty and willingness to help, even though the outcome was not what they had hoped for.
• 14. How do you handle conflicts or disagreements with colleagues or superiors?
  A: I believe in open and respectful communication. If I have a disagreement with a colleague or superior, I approach them in a calm and professional manner, explain my perspective, and listen to theirs. I am always willing to find a compromise or solution that benefits both parties and the company.
• 15. How do you handle repetitive or routine tasks in your job?
  A: I see routine tasks as opportunities to improve my skills and increase my efficiency. I strive to find ways to streamline and automate tasks, and I am always open to suggestions and feedback from colleagues on how to improve processes.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle an applicant with a history of risky behavior?
  A: I would carefully assess all relevant information and conduct research to determine the severity and frequency of the risky behavior. I would also consult with other underwriters and use my own judgment to decide on the appropriate risk rating for the applicant.
• 17. What would you do if an applicant with a high-risk medical condition failed to disclose it on their application?
  A: I would first verify the information through thorough research and medical records. If the applicant did indeed fail to disclose a medical condition, I would have a conversation with them to understand the reason for the omission and to determine the impact on their insurance policy. Based on the severity of the medical condition and any potential consequences, I would make a decision on how to proceed.
• 18. How would you handle a client who is unhappy with their life insurance policy and wants to make changes?
  A: I would listen to their concerns and try to understand the reason for their dissatisfaction. If the changes requested are within the company's policies and regulations, I would make the necessary adjustments. If the changes cannot be made, I would explain the reasons and provide alternative solutions that could meet the client's needs and expectations.
• 19. What would you do if you suspect an applicant is lying on their insurance application?
  A: I would thoroughly review all documents and conduct research to verify the information provided. If I find evidence that the applicant has lied, I would bring it to the attention of my superiors and consult with legal and compliance teams to determine the appropriate course of action.
• 20. How would you handle a large influx of underwriting requests and a tight deadline?
  A: I would first prioritize and delegate tasks to ensure that all requests are handled efficiently. I would also communicate with my team and superiors to discuss strategies for meeting the deadline and make adjustments as needed. I am also open to working overtime or bringing in extra resources if necessary to ensure that all tasks are completed on time with accuracy and quality.