Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam

In the context of individual life insurance applications, failing to mention important medical history is known as:

1. Misrepresentation

2. Withholding

3. Concealment

4. Exaggeration

The correct answer is: Concealment

In the context of individual life insurance applications, failing to mention important medical history is accurately referred to as concealment. This term specifically denotes the act of intentionally withholding significant facts or information that are crucial for the insurance company to assess risk accurately. When an applicant does not disclose their complete medical history, it can lead to misunderstandings about their health status and, subsequently, the calculation of premiums or eligibility for coverage. Concealment is serious because it can ultimately impact the insurer’s decision-making processes regarding coverage. If an applicant hides relevant medical conditions or treatment history that could influence the insurer's evaluation, this breach of duty can lead to consequences such as denial of claims or cancellation of the policy once discovered. In contrast, misrepresentation typically refers to providing false information or altering the truth, while withholding may imply simply not providing certain information without the intent to deceive. Exaggeration refers to overstating aspects of one's situation, which is not applicable in the context of failing to mention necessary medical history. Understanding these terms is crucial for both applicants and financial consultants to navigate the insurance application process effectively.