Universal life insurance is a flexible-premium permanent life insurance policy. It generally provides a cash-value account, interest crediting, mortality charges, expense charges, and flexible premium-payment options within policy limits. The owner may often adjust the amount and timing of premiums and may have death-benefit options, subject to minimum funding requirements, underwriting rules for increases, and the policy’s terms. The flexibility does not mean the owner can stop paying indefinitely without consequence. If cash value is insufficient to cover monthly deductions and charges, the policy can lapse.

Universal life differs from traditional whole life, which typically has fixed premiums, a guaranteed cash-value schedule, and a fixed death benefit. It also differs from variable life, in which cash value and death benefit are linked to separate-account investments and market performance. Universal life typically uses the insurer’s general account for interest crediting, although variable universal life is a separate product combining flexibility with separate-account investment risk.

A producer must explain that illustrated values are not guaranteed unless identified as such. Policyowners should receive in-force illustrations and review funding adequacy periodically, particularly after taking loans, withdrawals, or reducing premium payments.

References/topics from the Study Guide: Universal Life Insurance; Flexible Premiums; Adjustable Death Benefit; Cash Value; Policy Lapse Risk.

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