In the context of life insurance, what is "underwriting"?

In the context of life insurance, underwriting refers to the process of evaluating an applicant's risk and eligibility. This is a critical step that insurance companies undertake to determine whether to offer coverage and at what premium rate. During underwriting, insurers review various factors such as the applicant's age, health history, lifestyle, and other relevant information. This assessment allows the company to quantify the risk associated with insuring the individual and decide on the terms of the policy, including coverage limits and premium prices. Effective underwriting is essential for maintaining the financial stability of the insurance company and ensuring that premiums are fair and sustainable for all policyholders.