Before engaging in viatical settlements, a broker must

• A. be licensed
• B. pass a financial audit
• C. own a life policy
• D. be appointed by a licensed insurer

Answer: (A)

Licensure is the baseline requirement for anyone brokering viatical settlements. These transactions involve life insurance policies and sensitive health information, and they’re tightly regulated to protect insureds, beneficiaries, and investors. A licensed broker has met the state’s qualifications, understands the relevant laws, and is subject to disciplinary rules if they don’t follow them. This licensing status authorizes the broker to solicit, negotiate, and effect such settlements legally.

The other options aren’t the standard prerequisite: a financial audit isn’t a required gatekeeper to enter the business, owning a life policy isn’t necessary to act as a broker, and being appointed by a licensed insurer isn’t universally required just to engage in viatical settlements. Licensure alone ensures the broker has the authority to operate within the regulated framework.