Life Settlements, also commonly referred to, as Life Insurance Settlements are quickly becoming an exciting financial planning tool for seniors and the financial advisors who assist these seniors.

The initial process before determining if a settlement is available is meeting a few of the basic requirements. The types of insurance policies that can be considered for a life settlement are universal life, whole life, variable life, survivorship (any type), adjustable life, joint first to die, and term insurance (if convertible). It is also common practice for the insured to be over the age of 65.

The process begins with when the individual policyholder "cases" are submitted to a Life Settlement Broker or Company through a completed application and a HIPPA release form.

Policyholders will provide a current policy illustration, medical records, for the insured, as well as other documents that may be requested.

After a completed thorough evaluation of the policy, a potential life settlement value is determined for each individual case submitted. This evaluation includes a review of submitted medical records by an independent medical underwrite. A medical exam or physical is NOT required.

If the funding source is interested in purchasing the policy, an offer to purchase the policy is communicated to the policyholder's broker or financial advisor (Not all policies will qualify for a life settlement).

If the offer is accepted, closing documents are prepared and sent to the policy owner through their life settlement professional.

It is the policyholders chose if the want to accept or decline the offer. There is never any cost or obligation during the initial life settlement process. The settlement offer is determined on a case-by-case basis and evaluation of the policy is required before an offer can be made.