Speak To A Broker

(888)-994-6376

Call Windsor today!

(888)-994-6376

Viatical Settlement Process

A Policyholder's Guide To Viatical Settlements

Grab a coffee and complete your life settlement inquiry forms.
Home » What Is a Viatical Settlement? » Viatical Settlement Process

The Unchanged Viatical Settlement Process At Windsor Since 2012

The viatical settlement process is designed to help policyholders living with a serious illness turn an existing life insurance policy into immediate financial relief. While each case is unique, the process follows a clear and transparent path.  This path is guided by licensed professionals and protected by state and federal regulations.

At Windsor Life Settlements, our role is to simplify this process — handling the details so you can focus on what matters most.

Step 1: Policy Review

The first step is to review your life insurance policy to determine whether it qualifies for a viatical settlement. Windsor examines the type of policy you own, its face value, current status, and any loans or outstanding premiums. Most whole life, universal life, and convertible term policies are eligible.

During this stage, Windsor also confirms basic health information. This helps estimate the potential value of your policy and whether you meet the medical definition of terminally or chronically ill under Internal Revenue Code.

All information you share is handled securely and confidentially — nothing is shared with potential buyers without your written permission.

Step 2: Underwriting and Valuation

Once we confirm eligibility, independent underwriters review your medical records to estimate life expectancy. This assessment, combined with your policy details, allows Windsor to calculate your policy’s market value.

The underwriting process is factual and discreet — it’s used only to help determine fair market pricing. Policyholders with shorter life expectancies typically receive higher offers because the buyer assumes a shorter premium payment period.

Windsor then prepares a comprehensive case file that includes your policy data, underwriting report, and anonymized information that buyers use to evaluate your policy.

Explore More

What Is a Viatical Settlement?

What Is a Viatical Settlement? A viatical settlement allows someone living with a terminal or chronic illness to sell their life insurance policy to a...

Read More

Viatical Settlement Calculator

Viatical Settlement Calculator Get an estimate today. Has the policy been in effect for more than 2 years?*Is Your Policy At Least Two Years Old?*YesNo...

Read More
life settlement calculator

Viatical Settlement Taxes

A Policyholder’s Guide To Viatical Settlements Understanding how taxes apply to a viatical settlement is an important part of deciding whether to sell your life...

Read More

Step 3: Introducing Your Policy to the Market

After valuation, the next step in your viatical settlement process is when Windsor introduces your policy to our network of licensed institutional buyers. These are regulated financial entities — not individual investors — who purchase policies as part of long-term investment portfolios.

Unlike companies that act as direct buyers, Windsor does not represent a single provider. Our independence allows multiple buyers to compete for your policy, which helps drive offers upward. You’ll receive transparent summaries of every bid, along with an explanation of how each was calculated.

Step 4: Review and Offer Selection

Once the offers come in, Windsor presents each one clearly so you can compare total payout, fees (if any), and closing timelines. We’ll answer all questions and coordinate with your family or financial advisor if you’d like them involved.

You are under no obligation to accept an offer. Many Windsor clients appreciate that there’s no pressure, no “expiring offers,” and no hidden agenda — only transparent information to help you make the right decision for your situation.

When you decide to move forward, Windsor prepares the closing documents and ensures every regulatory disclosure is included as required by your state’s Department of Insurance.

Step 5: Closing and Payment

All viatical settlements must close through a licensed escrow agent. This provides a secure, regulated process where your funds are held safely until ownership of the policy officially transfers.

Once the buyer assumes ownership and the insurance carrier records the change, the escrow agent releases payment directly to you — typically via wire transfer. Most clients receive funds within just a few days of signing the final documents.

After payment is received, the buyer becomes the new owner and beneficiary, assuming all future premium payments. Your transaction is complete, and Windsor provides you with a closing packet for your records.

Transparency at Every Step

From start to finish, Windsor’s role is to protect your interests. We act as your independent representative, ensuring each part of the process is handled with clarity, honesty, and compliance.

Every offer is genuine, every disclosure is written, and every payment is handled through licensed professionals. We believe that a viatical settlement should never feel rushed or confusing — it should feel like a confident, informed decision made on your own terms.

The Windsor Difference

Many companies that advertise viatical settlements are actually owned by the same investors who buy the policies. That means one agenda, one buyer, and often a lower payout.  This junks up the viatical settlement process for policyholders by reducing competition and transparency.  

Windsor is different. As an independent broker, we bring your policy to a broad, competitive marketplace. Our independence ensures transparency, competition, and fairness — qualities that often result in significantly higher settlement values for our clients.

When you work with Windsor, you’re never just accepting a single offer. You’re creating competition for your policy, and competition creates value.

What to Expect After the Settlement

After your transaction is complete, you’ll receive the proceeds in full, and you will no longer be responsible for any policy premiums. The funds are yours to use however you choose — medical expenses, debt relief, or improving quality of life.

Windsor will remain available after closing should you or your advisors need documentation or confirmation of the completed transfer.

Getting Started

The viatical settlement process begins with a confidential conversation. Windsor will review your policy, verify eligibility, and provide a realistic estimate of what your policy might be worth — all at no cost and with no obligation.

If you decide to proceed, we’ll handle everything from underwriting to final payment. You’ll have a clear understanding of each step, every offer, and all your rights under state law.

Speak To A Broker About Your Policy

Monday-Friday
9am-5pm CT