What does it mean when an insurance policy lapses?

A lapsed insurance policy indicates that it has been terminated due to nonpayment of the premium. When an insured individual fails to pay their premium by the due date, the policy typically enters a grace period during which payment can still be made without the policy lapsing. However, if the premium is not paid within this time frame, the insurer considers the policy inactive, and coverage is no longer in effect.

This situation emphasizes the importance of timely premium payments to maintain coverage. A lapsed policy can lead to potential gaps in insurance protection, leaving the policyholder without the safety net that the insurance was meant to provide. Understanding this concept is crucial for both insured individuals and insurance professionals, as it directly affects risk management and financial planning.