What happens if false information is provided in a life insurance application?

When false information is provided in a life insurance application, the policy can be rescinded. This means that the insurer has the right to void the contract based on the misrepresentation. Insurance companies rely on the accuracy of the information provided during the application process to assess risk and determine underwriting decisions. If the insurer discovers that the applicant provided material misrepresentations—information that could influence the insurer's decision to issue the policy or the terms under which it was issued—they may rescind the policy, effectively treating it as if it never existed.

Rescission is a fundamental right for insurers to protect themselves against fraud or misinformation that could lead to significant financial losses. While policies can be canceled or premiums adjusted under certain circumstances, the specific action in response to false information that directly relates to the validity of the insurance contract is rescission.