State RegulationsMI specificDifficulty 1/5
A policyowner in Kalamazoo wants to modify a provision of her individual life insurance policy. Under Michigan law, what is required for the modification to be valid?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why A is correct
Under the Michigan Insurance Code's policy-modification rule for individual policies, no change to the contract is valid unless made in writing and signed by an executive officer of the insurer; neither the producer nor the policyowner can effect a binding change informally. This requirement keeps the contract terms certain and prevents disputes over alleged side agreements. Policyowners should insist on a written endorsement signed by a company officer.
Why the other options are wrong
- B) A verbal agreement with the producer has no effect; agents cannot modify policy provisions.
- C) A handwritten note is not enough unless it is a written change signed by an executive officer of the insurer.
- D) Paying a premium does not amend contract terms; only a written, officer-signed change is valid.
Memory hook
No officer, no signature, no change.