Tax TreatmentQuestion 711 of 716

The cash value inside a permanent life insurance policy grows:

a.Taxable to the owner as ordinary income each year
b.Tax-free forever, even if the policy is later surrendered
c.As a long-term capital gain reported annually to the IRS
d.Tax-deferred while the policy remains in force

Explanation

Cash value accumulates tax-deferred as long as the policy stays in force; it is not taxed annually. Gains can become taxable if the policy is surrendered for more than its basis.

This topic, taught in full in the California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam guide. California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 · 14-day refund →

Practice all 716 questions free — no signup required.

Own the complete California Life & Health Insurance Producer Exam guide — PDF + EPUB, $19.99 →

Related questions on this topic

Last reviewed: · editorial process

PrepPass team · Verified against California Life & Health Insurance License Exam · How we review
Reviewed by John Zihao Zhang — California-Licensed Life Insurance Agent (CA Dept. of Insurance License #4396095 — verify)
Report