When must insurable interest exist for life insurance?

Insurable interest must exist at the time of the application for life insurance. This requirement ensures that the policyholder has a legitimate interest in the continued life of the insured, which helps to prevent insurance from being used as a gambling mechanism or for potential fraud. It establishes a financial or emotional stake in the insured individual's wellbeing.

If insurable interest did not exist at application, it could lead to policies being taken out on individuals without any meaningful connection or risk involved, which could encourage unethical practices. While it is important for the policy to remain valid throughout the life of the policyholder, the critical point at which insurable interest is assessed is during the initial application process.

The other options suggest that insurable interest must exist at death, at both times, or only at delivery, which are not consistent with the fundamental principles of insurable interest in life insurance contracts.