Part of our guide: Impaired Risk Life Insurance Underwriting by Condition →
A postponement can feel like a dead end, but it often just means the underwriter needs more information. In this case, two documents turned a postponed $1 million case into a Standard offer.
Key takeaways
- Postponements often signal missing information rather than an unacceptable risk.
- Asking the carrier underwriter what they need to make an offer can reveal a clear path forward.
- A doctor’s letter on the cause of anemia and a new normal CBC turned this case from postponed to Standard.
Informally postponed for severe anemia. After a doctor’s letter and a normal blood count: Standard, and a placed case.
The case
- 71-year-old female replacing $1 million of guaranteed universal life
- Informally postponed because recent labs in her medical records showed severe anemia
What the underwriter needed
We discussed the case with the carrier’s underwriter, who explained how to repackage it for an offer:
- A letter from the client’s doctor explaining the cause of the anemia
- A current, favorable CBC (complete blood count)
The outcome
Her doctor identified the cause as iron deficiency. She started iron supplements, the anemia resolved, and a new CBC came back normal. With the updated evidence, the carrier offered Standard and the case was placed.
The lesson for advisors
An unexplained lab result is a question mark; an explained and resolved one often isn’t a problem at all. When a case is postponed, ask what would change the decision. We do this on every difficult case. See another example where a declined LTC rider was approved on reconsideration.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get life insurance with anemia?
Often, yes. Underwriters want to know the cause. Anemia from a treatable cause, such as iron deficiency, that has resolved may have little effect on the offer.
What does a postponed life insurance application mean?
The carrier won’t make an offer yet, usually because a condition needs more time or information. It isn’t the same as a decline.
What is a CBC?
A complete blood count, a routine blood test that measures red and white blood cells and platelets, used to check for conditions like anemia.
Reviewed by Tim Fuller on 2026-09-25
Tim Fuller
President, SRS Inc.
Tim leads SRS Inc., a full-service IMO (Independent Marketing Organization) and BGA (Brokerage General Agency), connecting independent financial professionals with life, annuity, disability income, and long-term care solutions from 60+ carrier partners.
Connect on LinkedIn →We’re Here to Help
Have a question about what you just read, or a case you’re working on? Tell us a bit about what you need, and a member of the SRS team will follow up with you personally — no obligation, no hassle.
