Field underwriting is the preliminary risk assessment performed by producers before submitting a case. It includes gathering medical history, financial rationale, occupation, and avocations; estimating likely classes; and positioning the case with carriers. Strong field underwriting reduces surprises, speeds approvals, and helps match clients to appropriate products and premium expectations.

Producers use checklists to capture accurate histories, then pre-shop difficult cases with BGAs. They set expectations on classes and timelines and position the case with carriers most friendly to the client's profile. Good field work shortens underwriting.