You will always have complete control and are able to cancel any application at any time without penalty. Once the policy is put in force, you have a 10 day free no obligation look at the policy. Thereafter, you may cancel at any time without penalty regardless of the term (minus the premiums paid during the time coverage was in place). Note some policies may have a return of premium or cash value which after a certain time may allow you to receive 100% or more of all premiums paid.