Which of the following actions must occur before a life insurance policy goes into effect?

In order for a life insurance policy to go into effect, it is essential that the initial premium has been paid. The payment of the first premium is the critical step that signifies the insured's acceptance of the terms of the policy and the insurer's commitment to provide coverage. Until this premium payment is received, the insurer has no obligation to provide insurance coverage, and the policy is essentially just an offer.

Other actions, such as the insurer approving the application, also take place before the policy becomes effective but do not solely trigger the activation of the policy. While it is common for a free-look period or a medical examination to be part of the insurance process, they do not affect the prerequisite of initial premium payment in determining when a policy officially begins. The initial premium is a straightforward condition for the policy to be considered in force.