Definition of "Rate making"

Process of calculating a premium so that it is adequate-sufficient to pay losses according to expected frequency and severity, thereby safeguarding against the insurance company becoming insolvent; reasonable-the insurance company should not be able to earn an excessive profit; and not unfairly discriminatory or inequitable. Theoretically, it can be said that each insurance applicant should pay a unique premium to reflect a different expectation of loss, but this would be impractical. Instead, classifications are established for applicants to be grouped according to similar expectation of loss. Statistical studies of a large number of nearly homogeneous exposures in each underwriting classification enable the projection of losses after adjustments for future inflation and statistical irregularities. The adjusted statistics are used to calculate the pure cost of protection, or pure premium, to which the insurance company adds on loads for agent commissions, premium taxes, administrative expenses, contingency reserves, other acquisition costs, and profit margin. The result is the gross premium to be charged to the insured.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Insurance Terms

Entitlement of a pension plan participant (employee) to receive full benefits at normal retirement age, or a reduced benefit upon early retirement, whether or not the participant still ...

Endorsement to a business property floater policy that covers neon signs for all perils, both while they are being moved and once they are in place. Signs that are attached to a building ...

Coverage for a lender who has accepted property on the floor of a merchant as security for a loan. If the merchandise is damaged or destroyed, the lender is indemnified. The policy is on an ...

Loss that is not a direct result of a peril. For example, damage to property of a business firm would be a direct loss, but the loss of business earnings because of a fire on its premises ...

Policyholder's equity share of the life insurance company's assets. The share is based on the policyholder's contribution to assets (the company's gross premiums minus cost of insurance, ...

Highly visible form of marketing communication with the public with these objectives: (1) encourage agents and brokers to sell insurance company products, (2) predispose customers to be ...

Trade association located in New York City, consisting of approximately 200 captive insurance companies. The objective of the association is to further the common interests of its members. ...

Coverage in event of damage or destruction of animals that are being shipped. ...

Reduction in automobile insurance rate for a student with a good academic record. Some statistical studies suggest that good students have fewer automobile accidents. ...

Popular Insurance Questions