Your Questions, Answered Simply

We understand you have questions about selling your life insurance policy. Below you'll find answers to the most common questions we receive.

"I was skeptical at first, but Policy Buyout explained everything clearly. The funds helped pay for my mom's care facility."

– Sarah J.
(205) 265-1084
Senior couple reviewing documents with confidence

Getting Started

A life settlement is the sale of your existing life insurance policy to a third-party buyer for more than its cash surrender value but less than its death benefit. Instead of letting your policy lapse or surrendering it back to the insurance company, you can sell it for immediate cash.

This option is completely legal and has been recognized by the Supreme Court since 1911. It's regulated by state insurance departments to protect consumers.

Most seniors who meet these basic criteria can qualify:

  • Age 65 or older (some policies may qualify at age 60)
  • Policy face value of $100,000 or more
  • Any policy type: term, whole life, universal life, or variable life insurance

The best way to know if you qualify is to complete our free 2-minute eligibility quiz or give us a call.

Life settlement offers typically range from 2-5 times your policy's cash surrender value, though the exact amount varies based on several factors:

  • Your age and life expectancy
  • Policy face value (death benefit)
  • Policy type and premium costs
  • Current market conditions

Example: If your policy has a cash surrender value of $30,000, you might receive a life settlement offer of $60,000-$150,000 or more, depending on the factors above.

Yes, absolutely! Life settlements have been legal since a landmark 1911 U.S. Supreme Court case (Grigsby v. Russell). They are now regulated by state insurance departments across the country.

We are fully licensed and follow all state and federal regulations. Your personal information is protected, and all transactions are conducted with transparency and in compliance with the law.

The Process

The typical timeline is:

  • Eligibility check: 2-3 minutes online or 10 minutes by phone
  • Policy evaluation: 3-5 business days
  • Review offers: Take as long as you need (no pressure)
  • Closing & payment: 2-4 weeks after you accept an offer

Total time from start to cash in hand is typically 3-6 weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on your specific situation.

We keep the paperwork simple. You'll typically need:

  • A copy of your life insurance policy
  • Government-issued ID (driver's license or passport)
  • Basic medical information (we can help coordinate this)
  • Contact information for your insurance company

Don't worry if you've lost your policy documents—we can help you obtain copies from your insurance company.

In most cases, yes—but it's not invasive. A licensed medical professional will typically:

  • Review your medical records (with your permission)
  • Ask about your medical history
  • Sometimes perform a brief physical exam (blood pressure, basic measurements)

This helps buyers accurately assess the policy's value. The exam is usually conducted at your home at your convenience, and we coordinate everything for you.

Yes! You have multiple opportunities to change your mind:

  • Before signing: You can walk away at any point with no penalty
  • After signing: Most states provide a 15-30 day "rescission period" where you can cancel the transaction and keep your policy

We never pressure clients. This is your decision, and we want you to feel completely comfortable.

Unsure if this is right for you?

We are happy to review your policy and give you a free, honest assessment with no obligation to sell.

Check My Eligibility
Senior enjoying retirement gardening

Money & Taxes

Once the transaction closes, you'll receive your payment via:

  • Direct deposit/wire transfer (fastest option—usually 1-2 business days)
  • Certified check (mailed to your address—5-7 business days)

You choose the method that works best for you.

There are no upfront costs to you. Our fee is built into the transaction and is only paid if the deal closes. You'll know your exact net payout amount before you sign anything—no surprises, no hidden fees.

The medical exam, policy evaluation, and all administrative costs are covered by the buyer.

Tax treatment varies based on your individual situation. Generally:

  • The portion equal to your policy's cost basis (premiums paid) is typically not taxed
  • The amount above your cost basis may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains
  • Tax rates depend on your overall income and tax bracket

Important: We recommend consulting with a tax professional or financial advisor to understand your specific tax implications before proceeding.

Once the sale closes and ownership transfers to the buyer, you are no longer responsible for premium payments. The new owner takes over all future premiums.

This means you stop paying immediately after closing—that money goes back into your pocket each month.

Ready to Get Your Cash Offer?

Tell us about your policy. We will contact you within 24 hours.

✓ Confidential ✓ No Obligation ✓ Fast Response