What is the primary source of information for underwriting a life insurance application?

The completed application serves as the primary source of information for underwriting a life insurance application because it contains essential details provided directly by the applicant. This information includes personal data, health history, lifestyle choices, and other factors that will inform the underwriter's assessment of risk. Underwriters rely heavily on the contents of the application to make informed decisions about policy approval and the terms of coverage.

While medical records, personal interviews, and credit reports may also be consulted during the underwriting process, they serve as supplementary sources of information. Medical records are typically used to verify health claims made on the application, personal interviews can provide additional context or clarification, and credit reports may help assess the applicant's financial responsibility. However, the completed application is foundational, as it initiates the underwriting process and provides the primary framework upon which other investigations are based.