Promise and precaution: underwriting software and the need for guardrails

The potential impact of AI on underwriting is profound, but carriers must understand the guardrails this technology necessitates.
September 24, 2025
Written by
Peter Eliason
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Life insurance technology is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by advancements in automation and AI. This touches all aspects of the life insurance value chain, but is no more apparent than in the underwriting space, where traditionally paper-led and human-dependent processes have long been cost drivers for carriers. 

The potential positive impact is profound: through the incorporation of AI, modern insurance underwriting software solutions can help reduce administrative overhead and streamline decisioning. 

However, while the AI revolution is already providing benefits to carriers and consumers, there remains an urgent need for thoughtful strategy, vigilant oversight, and carrier accountability.

In a new white paper, we dive into the trend of AI-enhanced underwriting software and explore:

  • The positive impacts AI is having on underwriting technology, in some cases reducing underwriting processing times up to 31%
  • The potential pitfalls carriers must watch out for, like gender and race-based bias that could leave the door open to running afoul of regulators and even eroding public confidence
  • Potential solutions to help carriers mitigate risk, such as “Responsible AI” practices that can help increase visibility and accountability
  • Organizational readiness assessment and what to look for (and look out for) when vetting potential AI provider partners

Want to read about all of the above in deeper detail?  👉 Get the full white paper: Benefits, risks, and strategies for AI in underwriting

Conclusion

AI in underwriting software FAQs

What are the benefits of using AI-enhanced underwriting software?

AI-enhanced underwriting software helps carriers make faster, more accurate decisions while reducing reliance on manual processes. It can improve the efficiency of risk assessment and free up underwriters to focus on complex cases requiring judgment and nuanced expertise. Additionally, AI can enhance the overall customer experience by shortening application and approval timelines.

What risks do carriers face when implementing AI in underwriting?

While AI brings many benefits, there are risks that carriers must carefully manage. Biases in AI models—such as those based on gender or race—can lead to regulatory issues and damage public trust. Without proper guardrails and oversight, AI could inadvertently reinforce inequities and expose carriers to compliance and reputational risks.

What are “Responsible AI” practices in underwriting?

Responsible AI practices are strategies designed to increase transparency, accountability, and oversight in AI-driven underwriting. They may include model monitoring, bias detection, and clearly documented decision-making processes. These practices help carriers reduce risk while maximizing the operational benefits of AI.