Three years ago, Douglas purchased a whole life insurance policy with numerous supplementary benefits and riders. Today, he meets with his doctor who informs him that he has late-stage colon cancer and has only a few months to live. Even with surgery, his chances of survival are low. Douglas calls his insurance agent, Penny, to ask her what he should do to obtain a benefit immediately.

Three years ago, Douglas purchased a whole life insurance policy with numerous supplementary benefits and riders. Today, he meets with his doctor who informs him that he has late-stage colon cancer and has only a few months to live. Even with surgery, his chances of survival are low. Douglas calls his insurance agent, Penny, to ask her what he should do to obtain a benefit immediately.
A . Dread disease benefit.
B . Terminal illness benefit.
C . Policy loan.
D . Policy withdrawal.

View Answer

Answer: B

Explanation:

The Terminal Illness Benefit (also known as an accelerated death benefit) allows a policyholder diagnosed with a terminal illness to receive a portion of the policy’s death benefit while still alive. This benefit is designed specifically for situations like Douglas’s, where he has a limited life expectancy and needs immediate funds. While the Dread Disease Benefit (Option A) covers specific critical illnesses, it is generally not as expansive as the terminal illness benefit, which directly applies to Douglas’s prognosis.

Options C and D involve accessing cash values or loans, which are not immediate death benefit payouts.