Lost Policy Release (LPR)
Candlefocus EditorIn the past, a lost policy release was used when an original policy document was mailed back to the insurer to indicate that the policy had been canceled, and all liabilities were transferred back to the insurance company. Today, however, advancements in technology and a shift to electronic policy documents, mean that a lost policy release is no longer needed when switching from one insurance company to another.
Lost policy releases are still commonly used with auto insurance policies, as automobile insurers may require policyholders to sign a lost policy release when switching to a different auto insurance provider. This document serves as a critical part of transferring the policy from one insurer to another and releases the old insurer from any liabilities associated with the coverage. This document also allows the new insurer to track and verify that the former insurer is no longer providing coverage.
In the event of a customer dispute, the insurer may also require the original policyholder to sign a lost policy release if they are no longer interested in the coverage and shift the responsibility to the insurer. Similarly, the insurer may require a customer to sign a lost policy release when they are canceling a policy due to nonpayment. In some cases, a lost policy release may also be used as a way to protect the new insurer when a customer decides to switch to a new policy.
Lost policy releases are a key document for insurers and policyholders, as it is a legally binding document that helps to protect both parties from liability. It is important for any policyholder to understand what a lost policy release is and to understand the importance of this document when canceling car insurance and switching to a new insurer.