Insurance can be a confusing and overwhelming topic with unique jargon and terminology.
It’s easy to feel lost and unsure of what certain terms mean when navigating the world of insurance policies and coverage.
But fear not!
In this post, we’ll break down some of the most important insurance terms you need to know, making it easier for you to understand and make informed decisions about your insurance needs.
Entry Age
Entry Age is when an individual becomes eligible to enrol in an insurance policy or plan.
It is the minimum and maximum age range within which an individual can apply for coverage.
The entry age requirements vary depending on the type of insurance, such as life insurance, health insurance, or retirement plans.
Insurance providers set entry age limits to manage risk and determine premium rates.
It is important to understand the entry age requirements before applying for an insurance policy to ensure eligibility and coverage.
Maturity
Maturity, in the context of insurance, refers to the point in time when an insurance policy or investment reaches its full term or duration.
It is the date when the policy or investment becomes fully paid-up or when it reaches its maximum value.
For life insurance policies, maturity is typically the point when the policyholder is entitled to receive the policy’s face value or the accumulated cash value, depending on the type of policy.
Maturity can also refer to the end of a term or period for other types of insurance policies, such as term life insurance or endowment policies.
Premium
Premium is a term used in insurance to refer to the amount of money that an individual or business pays to an insurance company in exchange for coverage.
It is typically paid on a regular basis, such as monthly or annually.
The premium amount is determined by various factors, including the type of insurance coverage, the level of risk associated with the insured individual or property, and any additional coverage options or endorsements that may be included.
The premium is essentially your cost of insurance and it helps to fund the insurance company’s ability to pay out claims and provide coverage to policyholders.
Deductible
A deductible is a specific amount of money that an insured person must pay out of pocket before their insurance coverage kicks in.
It is a common feature in insurance policies, including auto, health, and home insurance.
For example, if you have a $500 deductible on your auto insurance policy and you get into an accident that causes $2,000 worth of damage to your car, you would be responsible for paying the first $500, and your insurance would cover the remaining $1,500.
Deductibles are typically set by the insurance company and can vary depending on the type of coverage and policy you have.
Choosing a higher deductible can often result in lower insurance premiums, but it also means you would have to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim.
Co-payment (Co-pay)
Co-payment (Co-pay) is a term used in insurance that refers to the fixed amount of money an individual must pay out-of-pocket for a specific healthcare service or medication.
This amount is typically paid at the time of receiving the service or medication and is separate from any deductibles or coinsurance that may also apply.
Co-payments are a way for insurance companies to share the cost of healthcare expenses with policyholders.
The specific amount of the co-payment can vary depending on the insurance plan and the type of service or medication being received.
Co-insurance
Co-insurance is a term used in insurance to describe the sharing of costs between the insurance company and the insured individual.
It is typically expressed as a percentage, such as 80/20 or 70/30.
This means that the insurance company will pay a certain percentage of the covered expenses, while you are responsible for paying the remaining percentage.
Co-insurance is often applied after the deductible has been met. It helps to distribute the financial risk between the insurance company and the insured individual.
Policyholder
A policyholder refers to an individual or entity that holds an insurance policy.
They are the person or organisation that has entered into a contractual agreement with an insurance company to receive coverage and benefits in exchange for paying premiums.
The policyholder is the one who is insured and is entitled to make claims and receive compensation from the insurance company in case of covered events or losses.
Person Insured
Person Insured refers to the individual who is covered by an insurance policy.
This is the person for whom the insurance policy provides protection and financial coverage in the event of a specified loss or occurrence.
The person insured is typically the policyholder or the individual named on the insurance policy.
However, the insured person can also be different from the policyholder.
For example, you buy an insurance policy for your child. You are the policyholder, while your child is the insured person.
Additional Insured / Secondary Insured
Additional Insured, also known as Secondary Insured, is a term used in insurance policies to refer to an individual or entity that is added to the policy and given coverage under the policyholder’s insurance.
This means that if something happens to the secondary insured person, they will also receive the coverage that the insured person receives.
It is commonly used in situations where one party wants to provide insurance coverage to another party, such as in construction projects, rental agreements, or parents wanting to extend coverage to their child.
The additional insured is typically added to the policy through an endorsement or by being listed on the insurance policy documentation.
Beneficiary
A beneficiary is a person or entity designated to receive the benefits or proceeds from an insurance policy in the event of the policyholder’s death.
The policyholder nominates the beneficiary when purchasing the insurance policy and can usually change or update the beneficiary at any time.
The beneficiary can be a family member, a friend, a trust, a charity, or any other person or organisation chosen by the policyholder.
It is important to keep the beneficiary designation up to date to ensure that the intended recipient receives the insurance benefits.
Nomination
Nomination is a term used in insurance to refer to the process of selecting a person or entity to receive the benefits or proceeds of an insurance policy in the event of the policyholder’s death.
When a policyholder nominates someone as a beneficiary, it means that the nominated person will be entitled to receive the sum assured or other benefits specified in the policy upon the policyholder’s demise.
The policyholder can change or revoke the nomination at any time during their lifetime.
It is an important aspect of insurance planning as it ensures that the intended person receives the financial protection the insurance policy provides.
Policy period / Policy term
Policy period or policy term refers to the specific duration during which an insurance policy is in effect.
It is the time frame in which the policyholder is covered by the insurance policy and can make claims if necessary.
The policy period is typically stated in the insurance policy document and can range from a few months to several years, depending on the type of insurance and the terms agreed upon between the insurer and the policyholder.
It is important for policyholders to be aware of the policy period and understand when their coverage begins and ends to ensure continuous protection.
Premium payment period
On the other hand, the premium payment period is the term that policyholders will need to make premium payments for continuously.
The premium payment period can be the same or lesser than the policy period, if there is a limited pay feature.
Limited pay
Limited pay is a feature of certain types of insurance policies that limits the number of years you have to pay your premium payments for. Your policy will then continue until maturity.
For example, a policy with a 5 limited pay, or a limited payment of 5 years only requires you to make premium payments for 5 years.
If the policy term is 20 years, this policy will mature in 15 years after your premium payment term ends.
The limited pay feature is common for whole life policies as you shouldn’t be paying for insurance coverage after a certain age.
Minimum investment period / Minimum contribution period
Minimum investment period or minimum contribution period refers to the minimum length of time that an individual is required to keep their money invested or make regular contributions to an investment or insurance policy.
This period is determined by the terms and conditions set by the investment or insurance provider.
During this period, the individual may be subject to penalties or restrictions if they withdraw their funds or stop making contributions before the minimum period is completed.
The purpose of the minimum investment period is to encourage long-term commitment to the investment or insurance policy and allow for potential growth or benefits to be realized over time.
This sound similar to the premium payment period – because it is – but this is mostly used for investment-linked policies while premium payment periods are used for everything else.
Underwriter
An underwriter is a person or entity responsible for evaluating and assessing the risks associated with insuring a person or property and determining the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.
They analyse various factors such as the applicant’s health, age, occupation, and the value of the property being insured.
Based on this evaluation, they determine the premium amount that the insured person or entity needs to pay and whether or not to provide coverage.
Underwriters play a crucial role in the insurance industry as they help ensure that insurance policies are priced appropriately and that the risks are adequately managed.
Underwritten by
“Underwritten by” is a term used in the insurance industry to describe the underwriter.
An insurance coverage can be offered by a non-insurance company if it’s underwritten by an insurer.
This is common in travel insurance policies where banks or travel companies offer you travel insurance, but the policy is underwritten by an insurer.
Claim
A claim is a formal request made by an insured individual or policyholder to an insurance company for compensation or coverage for a loss or damage that is covered by the insurance policy.
When an insured event occurs, such as a car accident or property damage, the policyholder submits a claim to the insurance company.
The insurance company then assesses the claim and determines the amount of coverage or compensation that the policyholder is eligible to receive based on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.
The process of filing a claim typically involves providing documentation and evidence of the loss or damage, such as photographs, police reports, or medical records.
Once the claim is approved, the insurance company will either provide payment directly to the policyholder or reimburse them for any expenses incurred as a result of the covered event.
Multi-pay / Multi-claim
Multipay or multiclaim is a feature that allows you to make multiple claims from your policy.
This means that if you experience multiple losses or damages during the coverage period, you can file separate claims for each event without affecting your coverage or premium.
Multiclaim insurance benefits individuals or businesses more likely to experience multiple incidents or losses, providing them with the flexibility and convenience of making multiple claims without any additional costs or penalties.
This is common for early critical illness or critical illness policies.
Single pay
Single pay or single claim policies are policies that let you make a claim once from the policy before it terminates.
This forms the majority of insurance policies.
If the policy does not state that you can make multiple claims from it, it is likely to be a single pay policy.
Coverage
Coverage refers to the type of protection or financial compensation an insurance policy provides.
It outlines the specific risks or events that are included in the policy and for which the insurance company will provide benefits or pay claims.
Coverage can vary depending on the type of insurance policy, such as health insurance, auto insurance, or home insurance.
It is important to understand your insurance policy’s coverage details and limitations to ensure that you are adequately protected in case of a covered event or loss.
Coverage Amount
Coverage amount refers to the maximum amount of money that an insurance policy will pay out in the event of a claim.
It is the limit set by the policyholder and the insurance company on how much they will cover for a particular type of loss or damage.
The coverage amount can vary depending on the type of insurance policy and the specific terms and conditions outlined in the policy agreement.
It is important for individuals to carefully consider their coverage amount when purchasing insurance to ensure that they have adequate protection in case of an unforeseen event.
Sum Assured / Insured Sum
Sum assured, also known as insured sum, is a term used in insurance to refer to the maximum amount of money an insurance company will pay out in case of a covered claim.
It is the guaranteed amount that the policyholder will receive if they suffer a loss that is covered by the insurance policy.
The Sum assured is determined at the time of purchasing the insurance policy and is stated in the policy document.
The difference between sum assured / insured sum and coverage amount in insurance is as follows:
Sum Assured or Insured Sum: This refers to the maximum amount an insurance company will pay out in case of a covered claim.
Coverage amount refers to the extent of protection an insurance policy provides. It is the total amount of financial coverage that the policy offers for various risks or events.
The coverage amount may include not only the sum assured or insured sum but also additional benefits or riders that are included in the policy.
It’s important to note that many use sum assured, insured sum, and coverage amount interchangeably.
Exclusion
In insurance, an exclusion refers to specific conditions or circumstances that are not covered by an insurance policy.
It means that if a claim arises from these excluded conditions, the insurance company will not provide coverage or pay for any damages or losses.
Exclusions can vary depending on the type of insurance policy and the specific terms and conditions outlined in the policy document.
It’s important to carefully review the exclusions section of your insurance policy to understand what is not covered and to avoid any surprises when filing a claim.
Endorsement
An endorsement in insurance refers to a modification or addition to an existing insurance policy.
It can be used to change the terms, coverage, or conditions of the policy to better suit the needs of the policyholder.
Endorsements can be used to add or remove coverage, increase or decrease policy limits, or make other adjustments to the policy.
They are typically requested by the policyholder and must be agreed upon by both the insurance company and the policyholder.
Endorsements can be specific to certain types of insurance, such as auto insurance endorsements or home insurance endorsements.
Grace period
A grace period is a specified period of time after a due date during which a payment can still be made without penalty or cancellation.
In the context of insurance, a grace period is the time allowed for an insured person to make a premium payment after the due date.
During the grace period, the insurance coverage remains in effect, and you are given an opportunity to catch up on missed payments.
The insurance policy may be cancelled or suspended if the premium is not paid within the grace period.
The length of the grace period can vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy terms.
Renewal
Renewal is the process of extending or continuing an insurance policy after its initial term has expired.
It involves the policyholder and the insurance company agreeing to continue the coverage for another specified period, usually another year.
During the renewal process, you may have the opportunity to review and make changes to the policy, such as adjusting coverage limits or adding additional coverage options.
The insurance company may also reassess your risk factors and adjust the premium accordingly.
It is important for policyholders to review the terms and conditions of the renewal offer to ensure that the coverage still meets their needs and that they are getting the best possible value for their insurance coverage.
Limit
In the given context, the term “Limit” refers to the maximum amount of coverage that an insurance policy will provide for a specific type of loss or damage.
It represents the highest amount of money that an insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim.
The limit is typically specified in the insurance policy and can vary depending on the type of insurance coverage and the specific terms and conditions of the policy.
For example, if you purchase multiple term plans from a single insurer and your death coverage adds up to $10,000,000.
If the insurer has a limit of $8,000,000 for a single life insured, you will not receive the remaining $2,000,000.
It is important for you to understand the limits of your insurance coverage to ensure you have adequate protection in case of a loss or are not over insured.
Rider
In the context of insurance, a rider refers to an additional provision or attachment to an insurance policy that modifies or enhances the coverage provided by the base policy.
It can be used to add extra benefits or customise your policy to meet specific needs.
Riders are optional and usually come at an additional cost.
Some common types of riders include accidental death benefit rider, critical illness rider, and disability income rider.
Accelerator / Accelerated Payment
An accelerator or an accelerated payment is a feature offered by most life insurance policies that allow you to receive a portion of your death benefit while you are still alive if you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, total and permanent disability, or critical illnesses.
Most riders offered are accelerators – giving you accelerated payments of the death benefit
For example, if you have a whole life insurance plan with $100,000 in coverage and $50,000 in critical illness (CI) coverage via a rider, should you be diagnosed with a covered CI, the insurer will pay you $50,000, and you will have $50,000 in death coverage left.
This is an important thing to note as if your death benefit decreases, you might not have enough life insurance coverage.
Thus, if you’re using a rider for coverage, it’s best to increase your death benefit accordingly so that you have sufficient protection throughout.
Death Benefit
Death benefit refers to the amount of money paid out to the beneficiary of a life insurance policy upon the insured individual’s death.
It is the primary purpose of life insurance and is intended to provide financial support to the deceased person’s family or loved ones.
The death benefit is typically a lump sum payment, although it can also be paid out in instalments or as an annuity.
In Singapore, it’s most commonly a lump sum payment.
The death benefit amount is determined by the coverage amount chosen by you and is specified in the insurance policy.
Terminal Illness Benefit
Terminal illness benefit is a feature offered by some insurance policies that provides a payout to the policyholder if they are diagnosed with a terminal illness.
This benefit is typically paid out as a lump sum or in instalments and can help cover medical expenses, debts, or other financial needs during the individual’s remaining time.
In Singapore, this is most commonly a lump sum payment.
The specific terms and conditions of the benefit may vary depending on the insurance provider and policy.
It is important to review the policy details to understand the specific coverage and limitations of the terminal illness benefit.
Total and permanent disability benefit
Total and permanent disability (TPD) benefit is a type of insurance coverage that provides a lump sum payment or regular income to an insured individual who becomes totally and permanently disabled and is unable to work.
This benefit is typically included in life insurance policies and provides financial support to cover medical expenses, living expenses, and other costs associated with TPD.
The specific criteria for qualifying as totally and permanently disabled may vary depending on the insurance policy, so make sure to check.
Disability
Disability is a term used in insurance to refer to a physical or mental condition that prevents a person from being able to work or perform certain activities.
There are multiple types of disability coverage – total and permanent disability, total temporary disability, loss of certain body parts, disabilities that don’t allow you to work, and more.
Depending on the disability coverage, this may be included in your policy, added as a rider, or even act as a standalone policy.
For example, disability income insurance provides financial protection to individuals who are unable to work due to a disability; and it mostly comes as a standalone policy.
It is important to understand the type of disability coverage you have, the terms and conditions of what the insurer defines as a disability to ensure proper coverage in the event of a disability.
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are basic self-care tasks that individuals typically do on a daily basis.
These activities include washing, dressing, feeding, transferring (moving from one position to another), using the toilet, and maintaining continence.
ADLs are often used as a measure of an individual’s functional abilities and are important in determining eligibility for certain insurance benefits, such as long-term care insurance or disability insurance.
Critical illness benefit
Critical illness benefit is a type of insurance coverage that provides a lump sum payment if the insured individual is diagnosed with a specified critical illness.
This benefit is designed to help cover the costs associated with the illness, such as medical expenses, treatment, and living expenses during the recovery period.
The specific illnesses covered may vary depending on the insurance policy, but commonly include conditions like cancer, heart attack, and stroke.
In Singapore, there are 37 critical illnesses that follow a standard definition laid out by the Life Insurance Association of Singapore.
Any other forms of critical illness coverage and its definitions are up to the insurer.
The payout from the critical illness benefit can be used at your discretion.
Early critical illness benefit
Early Critical Illness Benefit is a type of insurance coverage that provides a lump sum payment if the insured individual is diagnosed with a critical illness at an early or intermediate stage.
The purpose of the early critical illness benefit is to provide financial support to the insured person during the early stages of a critical illness, when medical expenses and other costs may be high.
The specific illnesses covered and their definitions may vary depending on the insurance policy, so be sure to know them.
It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of an insurance policy to understand the coverage and limitations of the early critical illness benefit.
Waiver of Premium
Waiver of premium, or premium waiver, is a clause in an insurance policy and usually appears as a rider, which allows the policyholder to stop paying premiums if they become disabled or unable to work due to illness or injury.
The insurance company will waive the premium payments during the period of disability, ensuring that the policy remains in force and the policyholder continues to receive the benefits outlined in the policy.
This provision provides financial protection to the policyholder during times of hardship and ensures that their insurance coverage remains intact.
Maturity benefit
Maturity benefit refers to the amount paid to the policyholder by the insurance company when an insurance policy ends.
In participating or investment-linked plans, maturity benefit is paid to the policyholder if they survive the policy term.
It is the sum assured plus any bonuses or returns that may have accumulated over the years.
Maturity benefit provides financial security and can be used for various purposes such as retirement planning, education expenses, or any other financial needs.
Cash benefits
Cash benefits refer to the monetary payments that a policyholder receives from their insurance company.
These payments are typically made in the form of a lump sum or regular instalments and are provided to you to cover specific expenses or losses outlined in their insurance policy.
Cash benefits can be received for various reasons, such as medical expenses, disability, accident-related costs, or even death benefits for beneficiaries.
For endowment and annuity plans, cash benefits can also means regular payouts for your retirement or any purpose you want it used for.
The amount and duration of cash benefits vary depending on the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.
Participating Fund
Participating fund is a term used in the insurance industry to refer to the investment funds that different policies are invested in.
A portion of your premiums are used to pay for your insurance coverage, while the rest are then invested.
The insurer pools these funds from policyholders and invest them in the participating fund, letting policyholders share in the profits of those funds.
Policyholders who have participating policies are eligible to receive a share of these profits in the form of capital growth and bonus payments.
These bonuses can be used to make premium payments, increase the policy’s cash value, or be paid out in cash to the policyholder.
Participating funds are often associated with life insurance policies, such as whole life or endowment policies.
Cash Value / Surrender Value
Cash value or the surrender value is an interchangeably used insurance term that refers to value of your policy based on the performance of the participating fund.
This basically means that your policy is valued as a certain amount, and should you surrender the policy, you will receive the cash value.
After a certain number of years, your surrender value will be the same as the total premiums you paid.
We call it the breakeven point of the policy as that is the point where your policy breaks even.
However, we only look at the guaranteed portion of your surrender value to determine the breakeven point.
The surrender value is an important consideration for policyholders who may need to access the cash value of their policy due to changing financial circumstances or other reasons.
This is because the surrender value may be lower than the total premiums paid, as it takes into account factors such as administrative fees and any applicable penalties if you terminate the policy early.
Surrender
Surrender refers to the act of terminating or cancelling an insurance policy before its maturity or expiration date.
When an individual surrenders their policy, they may or may not receive a surrender value, which is the amount of money the insurance company will pay back to the policyholder.
Should there be a surrender value, it may be lower than the total premiums paid, as the insurance company may deduct fees or charges.
Surrendering a policy is a way for policyholders to exit their insurance contract and access their policy’s cash value if applicable.
Guaranteed portion
The guaranteed portion refers to a specific amount guaranteed to be paid to the policyholder or beneficiary.
This means that regardless of any market fluctuations or investment performance, the guaranteed portion will be paid out.
It provides a level of security and certainty regarding the benefits or payouts the policyholder can expect to receive.
Non-guaranteed portion
Non-guaranteed portion refers to a portion of an insurance policy that is not guaranteed by the insurance company.
In insurance policies, there are certain benefits or features that are guaranteed, meaning the insurance company is obligated to provide them.
However, other benefits or features may not be guaranteed and are subject to change.
This non-guaranteed portion could include things like the cash value accumulation in a life insurance policy or the dividends paid out by an insurance company.
The non-guaranteed portion is typically influenced by various factors, such as the performance of the insurance company’s investments or the overall economic conditions.
It’s important for policyholders to understand the non-guaranteed portion of their insurance policies as it can impact the value and performance of their coverage over time.
Non-participating policy
Non-participating policies refer to a type of insurance policy that does not invest in a participating fund.
In non-participating policies, your premiums are used to 100% pay for your insurance coverage.
This is in contrast to participating policies, where you may receive based on the company’s financial performance.
Because of this, non-participating policies are usually cheaper.
Term plans such as term life insurance or critical illness plans are usually non-participating policies.
Expense Ratio
Expense ratio refers to the percentage of an insurance company’s operating expenses to its total assets.
In other words, it measures the cost of running the insurance company compared to the amount of money it manages.
The expense ratio is calculated by dividing the company’s operating expenses by its average assets under management.
A lower expense ratio indicates that the insurance company is more efficient in managing its costs and may be able to offer more competitive premiums to policyholders.
It is an important factor to consider when evaluating the financial health and competitiveness of an insurance company.
In Force
In force refers to an insurance policy that is active and valid.
It means that the policyholder has paid the premiums and the coverage is currently in effect.
When an insurance policy is in force, the insurance company is obligated to provide coverage and pay out claims according to the terms and conditions of the policy.
If a policy is not in force, it may have lapsed or been cancelled, and the insurance company is not obligated to provide coverage.
Levelled
In the context of insurance, “levelled” refers to a type of premium or coverage that remains consistent over a specific period of time.
With levelled premiums, the policyholder pays the same amount for their insurance coverage throughout the duration of the policy.
This can provide stability and predictability in terms of budgeting for insurance expenses.
Levelled coverage, on the other hand, means that the insurance policy provides the same amount of coverage throughout its term, without any fluctuations or changes.
This ensures that the policyholder knows exactly what they are covered for and can plan accordingly.
Non-levelled
Non-levelled on the other hand, are premiums that do not remain the same throughout the policy period.
Most of the time, non-levelled policies start off with low premiums and gradually increase as you age.
This is because as you grow older, there is a higher risk of you making claims.
Thus, the higher premiums are used to compensate for the risk that the insurer is taking to provide you with this coverage.
Non-levelled premiums are common in renewable insurance policies.
Renewable
Renewable insurance can be a valuable option for individuals who want flexibility and the ability to extend their life insurance coverage beyond the initial term without committing to a policy for the long-term.
This can be due to you needing a temporary boost in coverage due to some additional liability you took on.
As you pay off your liability, your need for insurance coverage reduces. Thus, a renewable policy lets you cancel the policy once you don’t need it.
Depending on your age, a renewable policy can be really cheap as compared to getting a fixed term and levelled policy.
Take note that not all renews are guaranteed, so you risk not being able to extend your protection should you need it.
Also, not all policies offer a renewable feature.
Convertible
Convertible is a term used in insurance to describe a policy feature that allows the policyholder to change their current policy into a different type of policy.
For example, in term life insurance policies, a convertible policy allows you to convert your term policy into a whole life insurance policy, endowment plan, or annuity without the need for a medical exam or underwriting.
This feature provides flexibility to policyholders who may want to change their coverage as their needs change over time.
Front loading
Front loading refers to a practice in insurance where a larger portion of the premium payment is made at the beginning of the policy term.
This means that the policyholder pays a higher amount upfront, and the premium payments decrease as the policy term progresses.
Alternatively, you pay a fixed amount of premiums, but a larger portion of it is used for fees and charges first before being allocated into your investment or insurance coverage.
Front loading is often done to cover administrative costs and expenses associated with setting up the insurance policy.
Backloading
Backloading refers to a practice in the insurance industry where an insurer charges higher premiums in the later years of an insurance policy.
This is done to offset the lower premiums charged in the earlier years of the policy.
Backloading allows insurers to attract customers with lower initial premiums but make up for it by increasing premiums as the policy progresses.
Alternatively, you pay a fixed amount of premiums, but the insurer will allocate less of your premiums into your investments or insurance coverage the longer you hold the policy until fees and charges are fully paid for.
It is important for policyholders to understand the terms of their insurance policy, including any backloading provisions, to make informed decisions about their coverage.
Freelook
Freelook refers to a provision in an insurance policy that allows the policyholder to review the policy after it has been issued.
During the freelook period, which is typically a set number of days (14 in Singapore), the policyholder can cancel the policy and receive a full refund of any premiums paid.
This provision is designed to give policyholders a chance to thoroughly review the policy’s terms and conditions and ensure it meets their needs.
Vested
Vested refers to the ownership or entitlement of a particular asset or right.
In the context of insurance, vested typically refers to the point at which an individual has a guaranteed right to the benefits or funds associated with an insurance policy.
This means that the policyholder has met certain requirements, such as reaching a specified age or completing a certain number of years in the policy, and is now entitled to receive the full benefits or funds from the policy.
Once vested, the policyholder has full control and ownership over the benefits and can make decisions regarding their use or distribution.
Liability
Liability refers to the legal responsibility or obligation that one party has to compensate another party for any damages or injuries caused.
In the context of insurance, liability refers to the coverage that protects the insured party from financial losses if they are found legally responsible for causing harm or damage to another person or their property.
Liability can apply to various situations, such as car accidents, property damage, or personal injury claims.
It helps cover the costs of legal fees, medical expenses, property repairs, or settlements that may arise from such incidents.
Peril
Peril refers to a specific risk or danger that can cause harm or damage.
In the context of insurance, it refers to events or circumstances that are covered by an insurance policy.
These perils can include natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes, as well as man-made events like fires or theft.
Understanding the perils covered by your insurance policy is important in determining what types of risks are protected and what events may result in a claim being filed.
Subrogation
Subrogation refers to the process where an insurance company recovers the amount it paid out for a claim from a third party who is responsible for the loss or damages.
When an insurance company pays out a claim to its policyholder, it may have the right to seek reimbursement from the party at fault or responsible for the incident.
This helps the insurance company recover its expenses and prevent the policyholder from receiving a double payment for the loss.
Subrogation is commonly used in cases such as car accidents or property damage where another party is liable for the damages.
Underinsurance / Underinsured
Underinsurance refers to a situation where an individual or organisation has inadequate insurance coverage to fully compensate for losses or damages in the event of an incident.
It occurs when the value of the insured item or property is greater than the coverage amount specified in the insurance policy.
In case of a claim, the insurance company will only pay a portion of the loss, leaving the policyholder responsible for the remaining expenses.
Underinsurance can result in financial hardship and potential loss for the policyholder.
It is important to carefully assess the value of assets and obtain appropriate insurance coverage to avoid being underinsured.
Overinsurance / Overinsured
On the contrary, overinsurance or being overinsured refers to a situation whereby you have more insurance coverage than needed.
In case of a claim, you will receive more money than what you need.
This may sound good, but being overinsured also means that you’re paying years’ worth of premiums that you may not need.
If you can afford it and are looking to get overinsured, go ahead. If you don’t, then it’s best to find ways to reduce your insurance coverage.
Salvage
Salvage refers to the process of recovering or retrieving value from damaged or destroyed property.
In the context of insurance, salvage refers to the damaged property that is deemed to have some residual value after an insurance claim has been settled.
Insurers may take possession of the salvage and sell it to recover some of the costs they incurred from the claim.
This can include damaged vehicles, buildings, or other assets.
The salvage value is typically deducted from the total claim payout that the insured receives.
Aggregate Limit
Aggregate limit refers to the maximum amount an insurance policy will pay out over a specific period, typically 1 policy year.
It represents the total limit of coverage available for all claims made during that time, regardless of the number of claims or the individual limits for each claim.
Once the aggregate limit is reached, the insurance company will no longer provide coverage for any additional claims.
It is important for policyholders to understand the aggregate limit and ensure that it is sufficient to cover their potential liabilities.
Application
Application in the context of insurance refers to the process of applying for an insurance policy.
It is a form or document that an individual or business fills out to provide information about themselves and their property or assets in order to obtain insurance coverage.
The application typically includes personal details, such as name, address, contact information, and specific information about the property or assets to be insured.
The insurance company uses the information provided in the application to assess the risk and determine the premium for the policy.
Appraisal
Appraisal is a term used in insurance that refers to the process of determining the value of a property or item that has been damaged or lost.
It is typically conducted by an appraiser who assesses the condition of the property or item and determines its worth.
The appraisal is used by insurance companies to calculate the amount of compensation or reimbursement that the policyholder is entitled to receive.
Binder
A binder is a temporary insurance contract that provides coverage until a permanent policy is issued.
It serves as proof of insurance until the actual policy is issued and typically lasts for a specific period of time, such as 30 days.
Binders are commonly used in situations where immediate coverage is needed, such as when purchasing a new car or home.
Once the permanent policy is issued, the binder is no longer in effect.
Bodily Injury (BI)
Bodily Injury (BI) is a term commonly used in insurance policies, specifically in liability coverage.
It refers to physical harm or injury inflicted on a person as a result of an accident or incident.
In insurance terms, BI coverage provides financial protection for the policyholder if they are found legally responsible for causing bodily injury to someone else.
This coverage typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and legal fees.
The specific details and limits of BI coverage can vary depending on the insurance policy and the jurisdiction in which it is issued.
Broker
A broker is a person or entity that acts as an intermediary between an insurance buyer and an insurance company.
They help individuals or businesses find and purchase insurance policies that meet their specific needs.
Brokers are licensed professionals who deeply understand the insurance market and can provide advice and guidance to their clients.
They typically work on behalf of the client and receive a commission from the insurance company for each policy they sell.
Certificate of Insurance
A Certificate of Insurance is a document provided by an insurance company that serves as proof of insurance coverage for a particular individual or entity.
It outlines the types and limits of insurance coverage, as well as the effective dates of the policy.
The Certificate of Insurance is often requested by third parties, such as clients or contractors, to ensure that the insured party has the necessary insurance coverage in place.
It provides a summary of the insurance policy and is typically used to demonstrate compliance with contractual or legal requirements.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage is a type of auto insurance policy that covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault.
This coverage is typically optional but may be required if you have a car loan or lease.
Collision coverage helps protect your investment in your vehicle and can help pay for repairs or replacement in the event of an accident.
It is important to note that collision coverage usually has a deductible, which is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
Declarations Page / Policy Documents
The declarations page, also known as your policy documents, refers to a document in an insurance policy that provides a summary of important information about the policyholder’s coverage.
It typically includes details such as the policyholder’s name and address, the policy number, the effective dates of coverage, the types and amounts of coverage, and the premiums and deductibles associated with the policy.
The declarations page is often used as a reference point for policyholders to understand their insurance coverage and to provide proof of insurance when needed.
Depreciation
Depreciation is a term used in insurance to describe the decrease in value of an asset over time.
In the context of insurance, depreciation typically refers to the reduction in the value of property or belongings due to wear and tear, age, or obsolescence.
When filing an insurance claim for damaged or lost property, the insurance company may consider the item’s depreciation and provide a payout based on its current value rather than its original purchase price.
Depreciation is often calculated using various methods, such as straight-line depreciation or accelerated depreciation, depending on the type of asset and its expected lifespan.
Understanding depreciation is important when determining the coverage and payout for insurance claims.
Excess Coverage
Excess coverage refers to an additional layer of insurance coverage that goes beyond the limits of a primary insurance policy.
In the context of insurance, “excess” means that the coverage only applies once the primary policy’s limits have been exhausted.
It is also known as “umbrella coverage” or “excess liability insurance.”
Excess coverage protects against large and catastrophic losses that exceed the primary policy’s limits.
It is commonly used by businesses and individuals who want extra protection and peace of mind in case of significant claims or lawsuits.
Fraud
Fraud is a deliberate act of deception or dishonesty, typically committed to gain some form of financial or personal benefit.
In the insurance context, fraud refers to the intentional misrepresentation of facts or the submission of false claims to obtain insurance benefits or payments.
Insurance fraud can take various forms, such as exaggerating damages or injuries, staging accidents, or providing false information on insurance applications.
It is considered illegal and can result in criminal charges and penalties.
Insurance companies have measures in place to detect and prevent fraud, including investigations and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
Hazard
A hazard in insurance refers to any condition or situation that increases the likelihood of a loss occurring.
It can be a physical condition, such as a slippery floor or faulty wiring, or it can be related to human behaviour, such as smoking or reckless driving.
Hazards are important to insurance because they help insurers assess the risk associated with insuring a particular person, property, or event.
By identifying and evaluating hazards, insurers can determine the appropriate premiums to charge and the terms of coverage to offer.
Insurable Interest
Insurable interest refers to the financial or legal interest that an individual or entity has in the subject matter of an insurance policy.
It means that the person purchasing the insurance policy must have a valid reason to insure the property, person, or event covered by the policy.
In other words, insurable interest exists when a person would suffer a financial loss or other type of hardship if the insured property or person were to experience a covered loss.
For example, a homeowner has an insurable interest in their own house because they would suffer a financial loss if the house were to be damaged or destroyed.
However, the same homeowner has no insurable interest in purchasing insurance for someone they don’t know.
Similarly, a person has an insurable interest in their own life because their beneficiaries would suffer a financial loss in the event of their death.
Insurable interest is a fundamental principle of insurance and is necessary for a valid insurance contract to exist.
Insured Peril
Insured peril refers to a specific event or risk that is covered by an insurance policy.
It is an event or circumstance that is listed in the policy and for which the insured party can make a claim to receive compensation or coverage.
Examples of insured perils in insurance policies may include fire, theft, natural disasters, accidents, and other specified risks.
It is important to review and understand the insured perils listed in your insurance policy to know what events are covered and what is excluded.
Lapse
In the context of insurance, a lapse refers to the termination or expiration of an insurance policy due to non-payment of premiums.
When an insured individual fails to pay the required premium within the specified grace period, the policy may lapse, resulting in the loss of coverage.
During the lapse period, the policyholder is no longer protected by the insurance policy, and any claims or benefits will not be honoured.
It is important to keep up with premium payments to avoid a lapse in coverage and ensure continuous protection.
Occurrence
Occurrence is a term used in insurance to refer to an event that results in damage or loss and triggers coverage under an insurance policy.
It typically refers to a single incident or accident that causes harm or damage within a specific period of time.
In insurance policies, such as liability insurance, occurrence-based coverage means that the policy covers claims that arise from events that occur during the policy period, regardless of when the claims are actually made.
This is different from claims-made coverage, where the policy only covers claims that are made during the policy period.
Personal Property
Personal property refers to the belongings or possessions that an individual owns.
This can include items such as furniture, electronics, clothing, jewellery, and other personal items.
In the context of insurance, personal property coverage provides protection for these belongings in the event of theft, damage, or loss due to covered perils such as fire, vandalism, or natural disasters.
It is important to understand the terms and coverage limits of your insurance policy to ensure that your personal property is adequately protected.
Professional Liability Insurance
Professional liability insurance, also known as Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance, is a type of insurance coverage that protects professionals from liability claims arising from their professional services or advice.
It is specifically designed to cover financial losses that may result from negligence, errors, or omissions in the performance of professional duties.
This type of insurance is commonly purchased by professionals such as property agents, lawyers, architects, financial advisors, and other service providers who provide expert advice or services to clients.
Professional liability insurance helps protect them from the potential costs of legal defence, settlements, or judgments that may arise from a claim made against them.
It is an essential form of insurance for individuals and businesses in professions where mistakes or errors could have significant financial consequences.
Proof of Loss
Proof of loss is a document or statement provided by an insured individual to an insurance company as evidence of a claim.
It is typically required when filing a claim for insurance coverage.
The proof of loss document includes detailed information about the loss or damage that occurred, including the date, time, cause, and value of the loss.
It may also require supporting documents such as receipts, estimates, or photographs.
The purpose of the proof of loss is to provide the insurance company with sufficient evidence to evaluate and process the claim.
Property Damage (PD)
Property Damage (PD) refers to physical harm or destruction caused to someone else’s property.
In the context of insurance, PD coverage is a type of liability insurance that protects the policyholder against financial loss if they are found responsible for damaging someone else’s property.
This can include damage to buildings, vehicles, or other possessions.
PD coverage typically helps pay for repairs, replacement, or compensation for the damaged property.
It is an essential component of many insurance policies, such as auto insurance or homeowners insurance.
Reinsurance
Reinsurance is a practice in the insurance industry where insurance companies transfer a portion of their risk to another insurance company.
Essentially, it is insurance for insurance companies.
Reinsurance helps insurance companies manage their exposure to large or catastrophic losses by sharing the risk with other insurers.
By spreading the risk, reinsurance allows insurance companies to provide coverage for high-risk policies and protect themselves from financial losses.
Reinsurance agreements can be structured in various ways, such as proportional or non-proportional arrangements, and can cover specific types of risks or a portfolio of risks.
Reservation of Rights
Reservation of rights is a term used in insurance to refer to a situation where an insurance company provides coverage to an insured party under a policy, but also reserves the right to deny coverage or defend against certain claims.
When an insurance company issues a reservation of rights, it means that they are acknowledging the claim but are reserving their right to investigate further or deny coverage if certain conditions or exclusions are found to apply.
This allows the insurance company to protect their interests while still providing temporary coverage to the insured party.
Risk
Risk refers to the potential for loss or harm that an individual or entity faces.
In the context of insurance, risk is the possibility of an event or circumstance occurring that could result in a financial loss.
Insurance is designed to mitigate or transfer this risk by providing coverage and compensation in the event of a covered loss.
Insurers assess the level of risk associated with an individual or entity before determining the premiums to be paid for insurance coverage.
Factors such as the likelihood of a loss occurring and the potential severity of the loss are taken into account when evaluating risk.
Third Party Administrator
A Third-Party Administrator (TPA) is a company or organisation that is contracted by an insurance provider to handle certain administrative tasks related to insurance policies.
TPAs are responsible for managing claims processing, policy enrolment and maintenance, premium collection, and other administrative functions on behalf of the insurance provider.
They act as an intermediary between the insurance company and the insured individuals or organisations, helping to streamline and manage the insurance process.
TPAs are commonly used in various types of insurance, including health insurance, auto insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance.
Total Loss
Total Loss refers to a situation in insurance where the cost to repair a damaged vehicle exceeds its actual cash value (ACV).
When a vehicle is deemed a total loss, the insurance company typically pays the policyholder the ACV of the vehicle rather than covering the cost of repairs.
The ACV is determined by factors such as the vehicle’s age, condition, and market value.
In some cases, the insurance company may allow the policyholder to keep the damaged vehicle and receive a reduced payout.
Umbrella Insurance
Umbrella insurance is a type of liability insurance that provides additional coverage beyond the limits of your other insurance policies such as auto or homeowners insurance.
It is designed to protect you from major claims and lawsuits by providing extra liability coverage.
Umbrella insurance can help cover costs such as legal fees, medical expenses, and damages if you are found liable for an accident or incident.
It is called “umbrella” insurance because it acts as an additional layer of protection over your existing policies, extending their coverage limits.
Umbrella insurance is typically recommended for individuals or families with significant assets or those who are at a higher risk of being sued.
Uninsurable Risk
Uninsurable risk refers to a type of risk that insurance companies are unwilling or unable to insure against.
This can be due to various reasons, such as the risk being too high, uncertain, or outside the scope of the insurance company’s coverage.
Uninsurable risks are typically those that are too catastrophic, speculative, or morally hazardous for insurance companies to provide coverage for.
Examples of uninsurable risks may include acts of war, intentional acts of the insured, or certain natural disasters.
It’s important to understand that while some risks may be considered uninsurable by traditional insurance companies, there may be alternative risk management strategies available for such risks, such as self-insurance or specialised insurance products.
Unoccupied Property
Unoccupied property refers to a property that is vacant and not being used or occupied by anyone. In the context of insurance, unoccupied properties may have specific coverage requirements or limitations.
Insurance policies often define a property as unoccupied if it has been vacant for a certain period of time, typically 30 or 60 consecutive days.
Unoccupied properties may be at a higher risk for certain perils, such as vandalism, theft, or damage, and insurers may have specific conditions or exclusions related to coverage for unoccupied properties.
It is important to review your insurance policy and understand the terms and conditions regarding unoccupied property to ensure you have appropriate coverage.
Waiting Period
A waiting period in insurance refers to a specific period of time that must pass before certain benefits or coverage can be accessed.
It is a common provision in many insurance policies and is designed to prevent fraudulent claims or protect the insurer from paying for pre-existing conditions.
During the waiting period, the insured individual or policyholder is not eligible to receive benefits or coverage for certain conditions or services.
The length of the waiting period varies depending on the type of insurance and the specific policy terms.
It is important to carefully review the details of your insurance policy to understand any waiting period requirements.
Valuation
Valuation is the process of determining the monetary value of an asset or property.
In the context of insurance, valuation refers to the assessment of the value of an insured item or property.
This is important for insurance purposes as it helps determine the appropriate coverage and premiums for the policy.
Valuation can be done through various methods, such as market value, replacement cost, or actual cash value, depending on the type of insurance and the specific circumstances.
Sublimit
Sublimit is a term used in insurance policies to refer to a specific limit or cap on coverage for a particular type of loss or expense.
It is typically lower than the overall policy limit and may apply to specific categories or types of claims.
For example, a health insurance policy may have a sublimit for prescription medications, meaning that the policy will only cover a certain amount of expenses related to prescription drugs.
Sublimits help insurers manage risk and control costs by setting specific limits for certain types of coverage within a larger policy.
Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
Additional Living Expenses (ALE) is a term used in insurance to refer to the coverage provided for the costs of living away from your home if it becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss.
This can include expenses such as hotel bills, temporary rentals, restaurant meals, and other necessary costs.
ALE coverage helps policyholders maintain their standard of living while their home is being repaired or rebuilt.
It is important to review your insurance policy to understand the specific details and limits of your ALE coverage.
Annuity
An annuity is a financial product that provides a series of payments to the holder over a specified period of time.
It is commonly used as a retirement investment option, where an individual makes regular payments or a lump sum to an insurance company or financial institution.
In return, the annuity provider guarantees a regular income stream to the annuitant, either for a fixed period or for the rest of their life.
Annuities can be structured in various ways, such as immediate annuities, where payments start right away, or deferred annuities, where payments are postponed to a later date.
The amount of income received from an annuity depends on factors like the amount invested, interest rates, and the annuitant’s age and life expectancy.
Endowment
Endowment, also commonly known as a savings plan, is a type of life insurance policy that combines life insurance coverage with an investment component.
With an endowment policy, if the insured individual survives the policy term, they receive a lump sum payout known as the endowment.
However, if the insured individual passes away during the policy term, the death benefit is paid out to the designated beneficiaries.
Endowment policies are often used as a savings tool or to fund specific future financial goals, such as paying for college tuition or buying a home.
Assigned Risk
Assigned risk is a term used in the insurance industry to refer to individuals or businesses that are considered to be high-risk and are unable to obtain coverage in the regular insurance market.
These individuals or businesses are assigned to an insurance company by the insurance regulatory authority, ensuring that they have access to the insurance coverage they need.
The assigned risk pool is typically shared among insurance companies, spreading the risk and ensuring that no single company bears the full burden of insuring high-risk individuals or businesses.
Business Owners Policy (BOP)
A Business Owners Policy (BOP) is a type of insurance policy that combines various coverages into a single package for small businesses.
It typically includes property insurance, liability insurance, and business interruption insurance.
The purpose of a BOP is to provide comprehensive coverage and protect small business owners from common risks and liabilities they may face.
It is designed to be cost-effective and convenient, offering a simplified insurance solution for small businesses.
Concurrent Causation
Concurrent causation refers to a situation in insurance where multiple events or causes contribute to a single loss or damage.
It occurs when 2 or more perils act together to cause the loss, and each peril alone would have been covered by the insurance policy.
In such cases, determining liability and coverage can be complex as it involves analysing the sequence and interaction of the different causes.
Contingent Beneficiary
A contingent beneficiary is a person or entity named in an insurance policy or other legal document who will receive the benefits or assets if the primary beneficiary is unable to receive them.
The contingent beneficiary typically becomes the recipient if the primary beneficiary dies before the insured person or if they are unable to fulfil the requirements for receiving the benefits.
It is important to name a contingent beneficiary to ensure that the assets or benefits are distributed according to the policyholder’s wishes.
Conversion
Conversion is a term used in the insurance industry to describe the process of changing or switching insurance policies.
It typically refers to when a policyholder decides to switch from one insurance company or plan to another.
This can happen for various reasons, such as finding a better price or coverage, dissatisfaction with the current insurer, or a change in personal circumstances.
Conversion may involve cancelling the existing policy and purchasing a new one, or it can involve transferring the policy to a different insurer.
It is important to carefully consider the terms and conditions of the new policy before making a conversion to ensure that it meets your needs and provides adequate coverage.
Declarations
Declarations are a part of an insurance policy that provides specific information about the policyholder and the coverage they have.
It typically includes details such as the policyholder’s name, address, contact information, policy number, effective dates, and the types and limits of coverage provided by the policy.
The declarations section is important because it outlines the specific terms and conditions of the insurance policy and serves as a reference for both the policyholder and the insurance company.
Force Majeure
Force majeure is a legal term used in insurance contracts to refer to unforeseeable circumstances or events that are beyond the control of the insured party and prevent them from fulfilling their contractual obligations.
These events are typically considered to be acts of nature or acts of God, such as natural disasters, wars, strikes, or government actions.
In insurance policies, force majeure clauses may provide coverage or exemptions for losses or damages caused by such events.
It is important to carefully review an insurance policy’s specific language and provisions to understand how force majeure is defined and what coverage it may provide.
Gap Insurance
Gap insurance is a type of auto insurance coverage that helps cover the “gap” between the amount owed on a car loan or lease and the car’s actual cash value in the event of a total loss.
It is particularly useful for individuals who have financed or leased a vehicle, as it protects them from having to pay out-of-pocket for the remaining balance on their loan or lease in the event of a total loss.
Gap insurance is typically optional and can be purchased through an insurance company or a car dealership.
Incontestability Clause
The incontestability clause is a provision found in many insurance policies that limits the time period in which an insurance company can contest or void a policy based on misrepresentation or concealment of information by the policyholder.
Typically, this clause states that after a certain period of time, usually 1 to 2 years from the policy’s effective date, the insurance company cannot challenge the policy’s validity due to any misstatements made on the application.
This clause is designed to protect policyholders from having their coverage questioned or revoked after they have been paying premiums and relying on the insurance policy for protection.
However, it’s important to note that there are exceptions to the incontestability clause, such as cases involving fraud or intentional misrepresentation.
Insurable Risk
Insurable risk refers to the type of risk that an insurance company is willing to cover under an insurance policy.
It is a risk that meets certain criteria and is considered to be predictable and measurable.
In order for a risk to be insurable, it must have certain characteristics, such as being fortuitous (unpredictable), having a definite loss, being measurable, and having a large number of similar risks.
Insurance companies use the concept of insurable risk to determine whether they will provide coverage for a particular event or circumstance.
Insurance Score
Insurance companies use an insurance score to assess a person’s likelihood of filing a claim and their overall risk as a policyholder.
It is based on various factors such as credit history, driving record, and previous insurance claims.
Insurance scores are used to determine premiums and coverage eligibility.
A higher insurance score indicates a lower risk and may result in lower insurance rates.
It is important to understand your insurance score and how it is calculated to make informed decisions when purchasing insurance.
Occurrence Policy
An occurrence policy is an insurance policy that covers claims that arise from incidents that occur during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed.
This means that as long as the incident happened while the policy was in effect, the policy will provide coverage, even if the claim is filed years later.
Occurrence policies are commonly used in liability insurance, such as general liability or professional liability insurance.
They are different from claims-made policies, which only cover claims that are made and reported during the policy period.
Out-of-Pocket Maximum
Out-of-pocket maximum is the maximum amount of money that an individual or a family has to pay for covered healthcare services in a given period, typically a year.
Once this maximum limit is reached, the insurance company will cover 100% of the remaining healthcare costs for the rest of the policy period.
Out-of-pocket maximum includes deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, but does not include premiums.
It provides financial protection to individuals by capping their expenses for medical services.
Policy Limits
Policy limits refer to the maximum amount of coverage that an insurance policy will provide in the event of a claim.
It is the maximum amount that the insurer will pay out for a covered loss or damages.
Policy limits can vary depending on the type of insurance policy and the specific coverage within that policy.
It is important for policyholders to understand their policy limits to ensure they have adequate coverage in case of a claim.
Principal Sum
Principal sum refers to the maximum amount of money an insurance policy will pay out in case of a covered loss or claim.
It is the predetermined limit or maximum benefit that an insured person or their beneficiaries can receive from the insurance company.
The principal sum is typically specified in the insurance policy and can vary depending on the type of insurance coverage and the specific terms and conditions of the policy.
Pure Risk
Pure risk is a type of risk with only 2 possible outcomes: loss or no loss.
It is a situation where there is no possibility of gain or profit.
Pure risks are generally insurable, and examples include natural disasters, accidents, and death.
Insurance companies offer coverage for pure risks to protect individuals or businesses from financial loss in the event of an unforeseen negative event.
Risk Management
Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and prioritising risks to minimise potential losses or negative impacts on an organisation.
In the context of insurance, risk management involves analysing and evaluating potential risks that may affect an individual or business, and implementing strategies to mitigate or transfer those risks.
This can include measures such as purchasing insurance policies, implementing safety protocols, conducting risk assessments, and creating contingency plans.
Risk management aims to protect assets, prevent financial losses, and ensure the continuity and stability of an organisation.
Schedule
In the context of insurance, a schedule is a document that outlines an insurance policy’s specific details and terms.
It typically includes information such as the insured items or properties, their values, coverage limits, deductibles, and any additional endorsements or riders that may apply.
The schedule serves as a reference for both the insurance company and the policyholder to ensure clarity and accuracy regarding the coverage provided.
Final Words
In conclusion, understanding insurance terms may seem daunting, but it is crucial for protecting yourself and your assets.
By familiarising yourself with these terms, you can confidently navigate the insurance world and make informed decisions.
Remember, knowledge is power, and being well-informed about insurance terms will ultimately save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
So, don’t let confusion hold you back – empower yourself and become a savvy insurance consumer today!
