---
title: "What Is Release? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "A release is a written permission from an upline or marketing organization for an agent to leave and contract elsewhere. It may also mean a release of a..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/release
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Distribution structure

# Release

A release is a written permission from an upline or marketing organization for an agent to leave and contract elsewhere. It may also mean a release of a carrier contract.

## Why it matters

Without one, a carrier may refuse to appoint the agent under a new hierarchy. Release policies differ: some are fast, some include conditions on unpaid chargebacks. Ask how releases work before joining. Also ask who keeps ongoing renewals after the move. Get any release terms in writing, and keep a copy for your records.

Source: [naic.org](https://content.naic.org/insurance-topics/producer-licensing)

[Read next, for agentsHow to join an IMO: the questions to ask before you sign](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-join-an-imo)

## Where we use this term

-   [Captive vs independent insurance agent: who owns your book?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/captive-vs-independent-agent)
-   [Your first 90 days as a telesales life insurance agent: a week-by-week ramp](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/first-90-days-as-a-telesales-agent)
-   [IMO vs FMO vs MGA: which structure fits an independent agent?](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/imo-vs-fmo-vs-mga)
-   [Life insurance chargebacks explained: how they work and how to protect your cash flow](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/life-insurance-chargebacks)
-   [Switching IMOs: what experienced agents should know](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/experienced-agents)

## 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)