Carrier authorization is the written consent that an applicant signs allowing an insurance company to obtain personal information"such as medical records, prescription histories, inspection reports, and motor vehicle records"needed for underwriting. Often included as part of the application packet, the authorization specifies what information may be collected, from whom, and for how long the authorization remains valid. It is required to comply with privacy laws and to ensure that healthcare providers and data vendors can legally release information to the insurer. Without a properly executed authorization, underwriting cannot be completed and coverage cannot be issued.

Advisors present carrier authorization forms or e-signature screens during the application process, explaining that they allow underwriters to verify health and lifestyle information. BGAs and carriers check that authorizations are complete, signed, and dated before ordering attending physician statements or third-party reports. Incomplete or expired authorizations are a common source of underwriting delays. Advisors who understand carrier authorization requirements can set expectations about privacy, reassure clients about appropriate use of data, and help ensure that applications move through underwriting without unnecessary holdups.