War Exclusion Clause

Definition of "War exclusion clause"

Provision in a life insurance policy that death benefits will not be paid in the event an insured dies from war-related causes; or in lieu of a death benefit there is a return of premiums plus interest, or a refund equal to the reserve portion (cash value) of the policy. For example, during the Vietnam War, if a whole life policy with a war exclusion clause had a face amount of $10,000 and an insured died as the result of war-related injuries, the beneficiary would receive the cash value of the policy. This clause cannot be added to a policy that had none originally. If it is included in a policy bought in time of war, it is typically removed by life insurance companies at the end of the war and, once removed, can never be restored.

Related Real Estate Glossary terms

Related Real Estate FAQ