If an application for individual accident and health insurance is approved, when will coverage be effective if the initial premium check was unsigned?

When an application for individual accident and health insurance is approved, the effective date of coverage typically hinges on certain conditions being met, including payment of the initial premium. In this case, if the initial premium check was unsigned, the insurer cannot process it for coverage.

The coverage will become effective on the date the producer delivers the policy and collects the initial premium. This condition ensures that the insurance company receives proper payment and acknowledges the acceptance of the policy by the insured. Until the policy is officially delivered and the premium collected, coverage is not activated, even if the application was approved or the application date is noted.

This standard reflects the need for both legal authority (the signature on the premium check) and contract adherence (policy delivery and premium payment) to initiate coverage in health insurance underwriting.