In Florida, the exchange of an existing life insurance policy for a new one is carefully regulated. This process, often initiated by an agent, involves discontinuing, decreasing in value, or using assets from an existing policy to purchase a new one. It also covers situations where a policy is reissued with reduced cash value or pledged as collateral for a loan to purchase another policy. For instance, if an individual surrenders a whole life insurance policy to obtain funds for a new universal life policy, that action falls under regulatory oversight.
The intent behind these regulations is to protect consumers from potentially unsuitable recommendations and to ensure they are fully informed about the potential advantages and disadvantages of altering their life insurance coverage. Historically, such exchanges have sometimes been motivated by agents seeking higher commissions, potentially leading to detriment for policyholders. Therefore, a clear understanding of the implications and comparison of policy features is paramount.