How does the payment of an accelerated benefit affect a life insurance policy?

Comprehensive and Detailed Step by Step Explanation:Accelerated benefits allow a policyholder to receive a portion of the death benefit early, often due to terminal illness or specific qualifying conditions:

Decreases the death benefit (D):The accelerated amount reduces the death benefit available to beneficiaries.

Increases the cash value (A):Incorrect; accelerated benefits are drawn from the policy, reducing cash value and death benefits.

Increases the policy premium (B):Premiums generally remain unchanged.

Decreases the grace period (C):Not affected by accelerated benefits.

References:Maryland Accelerated Benefit Provisions, COMAR 31.09.04, and IRS Tax Treatment of Accelerated Death Benefits.