Referred Proposals: Your Next Client‑Handling Playbook

Your client just got a 'proposal referred to underwriting' email, and they’re already crying over the wait.

In Indian insurance parlance, a referred proposal signals that the insurer needs more data before making a decision; it is neither a green light nor a red flag.

Typical requisites include fresh medical reports, physician statements, and sometimes biometric scans; IRDAI guidelines allow a 30‑day window for insurers to respond, but delays of 45–60 days are common in high‑risk cases.

Set a realistic timeline from the outset—let the client know that a 4‑week window is standard, and that any deviation is due to underwriting backlog, not a policy denial.

During the wait, keep the client engaged with interim solutions such as employer‑funded group term cover or key‑man riders, as highlighted by the Economic Times on how groups can strengthen portfolios.

Leverage digital tools like ICICI Life Partner Stack 2.0 to push documents, track status, and send real‑time updates; this transparency cuts anxiety and positions you as a tech‑savvy advisor.

Remember that a referral is a chance to deepen trust—stay proactive, keep communication open, and convert the pause into a partnership milestone.