Headquarters: 1701 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850
http://www.bannerlife.com

At year-end 2009, Banner Life had over $396 billion in life insurance in force.

Key Officers: Jimmy D. Atkins, President, Chief Executive Officer; Frank Gencarelli, Senior Vice President, Distribution & Marketing; Gene R. Gilbertson, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer

Founded in 1949, Banner Life was one of the first companies to market universal life insurance. The company currently offers various life insurance products, including term life and fixed universal life.

The company started as Government Employees Life Insurance Company (GELICO), which began with GEICO.

In 1950, the average policy size was $2,400 with an annual premium of $50. But currently, a 30-year-old male in good health can buy a 10-year, $100,000 term policy for less than $100 annually.

In 1976, GELICO was given an A+ (superior) rating By A.M. Best Company, which the company (now Banner Life) has been rated every year following.

Banner Life, with just around 400 employees, raised $400,000 in a charity fundraiser in 2008; donated a classic car that raised $125,000 by raffle and auction; and continually donates time, money and supplies to local food centers, humane societies, shelters and schools.

In 1981, Legal & General Group Plc acquired Banner Life. Legal & General, headquartered in London, also owns William Penn Life Insurance Company and was voted “Most Trusted Income Protection Provider” by Moneywise in 2009.

Sources: bannerlife.com, Hoover’s

Compiled by Life Quotes, Inc. staff