Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam

What action must an agent take if they fail to obtain an applicant's signature on the application?

1. Submit the application without the signature

2. Return the application to the applicant for a signature

3. Contact the underwriter to proceed

4. Delete the application from the system

The correct answer is: Return the application to the applicant for a signature

When an agent fails to obtain an applicant's signature on an application, the appropriate action is to return the application to the applicant for a signature. The signature of the applicant is crucial because it serves as an acknowledgment of the information provided and consent to the terms and conditions outlined in the application. Without a signature, the application is considered incomplete and cannot be processed. Obtaining the applicant's signature ensures that the applicant understands and agrees to the statements made in the application, which can include important disclosures about the insurance policy. It also protects both the agent and the insurance company from potential issues related to consent and fraud. Submitting the application without the signature would not be valid, as this could lead to legal complications or disputes in the future. Contacting the underwriter to proceed without a signature would not be feasible since underwriters rely on complete information to assess risk and make decisions. Deleting the application from the system would also not resolve the issue, as it would eliminate the opportunity for the applicant to complete the process. Hence, returning the application to the applicant for their signature is the correct and necessary step to take.