---
title: "What Is NTO (Not Taken)? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "Not taken, or NTO, means a policy was approved and issued but the applicant did not accept it or pay for it. The carrier closes the case and usually..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/not-taken
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Technology and operations

# Not Taken (NTO)

Not taken, or NTO, means a policy was approved and issued but the applicant did not accept it or pay for it. The carrier closes the case and usually pays no commission, or takes it back.

## Why it matters

A policy can be not taken if the buyer changes their mind, a bank draft fails, or the buyer cancels during free look. NTOs hurt agent income and lower conversion. Agents reduce NTOs by setting clear expectations, confirming payment details, and following up after the sale. Treatment of NTOs and any chargebacks differs by carrier. Families can always decline a policy they do not want.

Source: [law.cornell.edu](https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/underwriting)

[Read next, for agentsLife insurance chargebacks explained: how they work and how to protect your cash flow](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/life-insurance-chargebacks)

## Where we use this term

-   [How do life insurance agents get paid? An honest breakdown](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/compensation)

## Start your climb.

Tell us where you are today and request a call about licensing, training and the calls.

[Apply to join](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply)

Shopping for coverage instead? [Get a quote](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote)