I have a renewable level premium term life policy in the 6th yr. of a 10 yr. term. The policy reads: "Renewability: this policy may be renewable for additional term periods. Evidence of the insured's insurability need not be furnished." When I tried to renew the 10-yr. term, I was told that I'd have to go through underwriting again. Their position was that renewal meant automatic renewal at the end of the existing term, with the premium going up each year with age (what I understand to be an ART, in which case I would not have to go through underwriting. My understanding is that "this policy" means the 10-yr. policy that is the basis of our contract. Nowhere does the policy say anything about annual renewability. What's your opinion?
Coverage that is renewable at the option of the insured, who is not required to take a medical examination.
Regardless of your physical condition, the insured must be allowed to renew the term life insurance policy, and the premium cannot be increased to reflect any adverse physical condition.
But, the premium of each renewal increases to reflect the life expectancy of the insured at that particular age.
It may have been a good idea to review the "Renewal Provision" with your agent before purchasing the policy.
It does seem that your Renewable Term Policy provides an ART, rather than a renewal option for another Level Term period of 5 or more years.
I don't believe this is standard, but I don't actually know how most carriers structure their "Renewal Provision" wording.
Obviously, it's more costly to get an ART at renewal, if you need it for 5 or more years, than getting another level term policy at renewal.
You may want to check at lifehappens.org for further information which may address your issue.