Your Insurance Knowledge Hub

Insurance Glossary

Demystify insurance terminology with clear, comprehensive definitions. Your trusted guide to understanding insurance.

297+
Insurance Terms
8
Categories
100%
Free Access

A

Accident
General
An unexpected event or circumstance without deliberate intent that results in injury, damage, or loss.
Related Terms
ClaimCoveragePeril
Accident Insurance
Health
Insurance coverage for unforeseen bodily injury resulting from an accident.
Related Terms
Health InsuranceDisability Insurance
Actuary
Industry
A business professional who analyzes probabilities of risk and risk management, including calculation of premiums, dividends, and other applicable insurance industry standards.
Related Terms
PremiumRiskUnderwriting
Adjuster
Claims
A person who investigates claims and recommends settlement options based on estimates of damage and insurance policies held.
Related Terms
ClaimSettlementLoss
Actual Cash Value
Property
The repayment value for indemnification due to loss or damage of property; in most cases it is replacement cost minus depreciation.
Related Terms
Replacement CostDepreciationIndemnity
Annuity
Life
A financial product that provides regular payments to an individual, typically used for retirement income.
Related Terms
PremiumBenefitPolicy
Admitted Insurer
Industry
An insurance company licensed and approved by a state's insurance department to do business in that state, subject to state regulation and guaranty fund protection.
Related Terms
Non-Admitted InsurerState Insurance DepartmentSurplus Lines Insurance
Additional Insured
Industry
A person or entity added to an insurance policy who receives coverage under that policy, commonly required in contracts and leases.
Related Terms
Certificate of InsuranceEndorsementNamed Insured
Aggregate Limit
Industry
The maximum amount an insurance policy will pay for all covered losses during a policy period, regardless of the number of claims.
Related Terms
Policy LimitPer Occurrence LimitLiability Limit
ACORD 25 Form
Industry
An industry standard form used to create a certificate of insurance (COI). This form provides proof of insurance coverage and is commonly required by clients, contractors, or landlords.
Related Terms
Certificate of InsuranceEndorsementPolicy
Aggregate Limit
General
The maximum amount an insurer will pay for covered losses over a specified period of time, typically the policy term. Once this limit is reached, no additional claims will be paid during that period.
Related Terms
Policy LimitPer Occurrence LimitCoverage
Appraisal
Property
An assessment of a property's value by an independent professional, often required for insurance purposes to determine appropriate coverage limits or claim settlements.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueReplacement CostValuation
Arbitration
Claims
An alternative to going to court where a neutral third-party is used to settle a dispute between an insurer and a policyholder, typically regarding claim settlements or coverage interpretations.
Related Terms
Dispute ResolutionClaimSettlement
Accelerated Death Benefit
Life
A provision that allows terminally ill policyholders to receive a portion of their life insurance death benefit before death to help cover medical or end-of-life expenses.
Related Terms
Living BenefitDeath BenefitTerminal Illness
Accident Forgiveness
Auto
An auto insurance feature that prevents your premium from increasing after your first at-fault accident, helping maintain your good driver discount.
Related Terms
PremiumAt-Fault AccidentDiscount
ACORD 25 Form
Industry
An industry standard form used to create a certificate of insurance (COI). This form provides proof of insurance coverage and is commonly required by clients, contractors, or landlords.
Related Terms
Certificate of InsuranceEndorsementPolicy
Aggregate Limit
General
The maximum amount an insurer will pay for covered losses over a specified period of time, typically the policy term. Once this limit is reached, no additional claims will be paid during that period.
Related Terms
Policy LimitPer Occurrence LimitCoverage
Appraisal
Property
An assessment of a property's value by an independent professional, often required for insurance purposes to determine appropriate coverage limits or claim settlements.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueReplacement CostValuation
Arbitration
Claims
An alternative to going to court where a neutral third-party is used to settle a dispute between an insurer and a policyholder, typically regarding claim settlements or coverage interpretations.
Related Terms
Dispute ResolutionClaimSettlement
Accelerated Death Benefit
Life
A provision that allows terminally ill policyholders to receive a portion of their life insurance death benefit before death to help cover medical or end-of-life expenses.
Related Terms
Living BenefitDeath BenefitTerminal Illness
Accident Forgiveness
Auto
An auto insurance feature that prevents your premium from increasing after your first at-fault accident, helping maintain your good driver discount.
Related Terms
PremiumAt-Fault AccidentDiscount

B

Beneficiary
Life
The person or entity designated to receive the benefits or proceeds from an insurance policy.
Related Terms
Death BenefitPolicyInsured
Business Interruption Insurance
Business
Coverage that compensates a business for lost income during periods when operations are suspended due to covered perils such as fire, natural disaster, or other insured events.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceExtra Expense CoverageBusiness Income
Business Owners Policy
Business
A bundled insurance package (BOP) that combines commercial property insurance, general liability coverage, and business interruption insurance at a discounted rate for small to medium-sized businesses.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityCommercial Property InsuranceBusiness Interruption Insurance
Builders Risk Insurance
Business
Specialized property insurance that covers buildings under construction, including materials, fixtures, and equipment, against damage from fire, theft, vandalism, and weather.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceConstruction InsuranceProperty Insurance
Business Income Coverage
Business
Insurance that reimburses a business for lost income and continuing expenses during periods when operations are suspended due to covered property damage.
Related Terms
Business Interruption InsuranceExtra Expense CoverageCommercial Property Insurance
Binder
Industry
A temporary insurance contract that provides coverage until a formal policy is issued, typically valid for 30 to 90 days.
Related Terms
PolicyCoverageTemporary Insurance
Builder's Risk Insurance
Business
A specialized type of property insurance designed to cover materials, fixtures, and equipment used in the building or renovation of a structure in case of loss or damage during construction.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceConstruction InsuranceProperty Insurance
Business Interruption Insurance
Business
Also known as Business Income Insurance, this coverage helps cover a business's income and operational expenses when operations must be suspended due to a covered loss, such as after a fire or property damage.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBusiness Owner's PolicyLoss of Income
Business Personal Property
Business
Coverage for the cost to repair or replace business property such as computers, furniture, and inventories if they're lost, damaged, or stolen. Generally does not cover property stolen by an employee.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBusiness Owner's PolicyContents Insurance
Bodily Injury
General
Physical injury, sickness, or disease sustained by a person, typically covered under liability insurance policies when the insured is legally responsible for causing the injury.
Related Terms
LiabilityGeneral Liability InsurancePersonal Injury
Baggage Insurance
General
Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal items during travel, typically included in comprehensive travel insurance policies.
Related Terms
Travel InsurancePersonal Property CoverageLost Luggage
Bid Bond
Business
A surety bond submitted with a construction bid that guarantees the bidder will enter into the contract and provide required performance and payment bonds if awarded the project.
Related Terms
Performance BondSurety BondConstruction Bid
Builder's Risk Insurance
Business
A specialized type of property insurance designed to cover materials, fixtures, and equipment used in the building or renovation of a structure in case of loss or damage during construction.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceConstruction InsuranceProperty Insurance
Business Interruption Insurance
Business
Also known as Business Income Insurance, this coverage helps cover a business's income and operational expenses when operations must be suspended due to a covered loss, such as after a fire or property damage.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBusiness Owner's PolicyLoss of Income
Business Personal Property
Business
Coverage for the cost to repair or replace business property such as computers, furniture, and inventories if they're lost, damaged, or stolen. Generally does not cover property stolen by an employee.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBusiness Owner's PolicyContents Insurance
Bodily Injury
General
Physical injury, sickness, or disease sustained by a person, typically covered under liability insurance policies when the insured is legally responsible for causing the injury.
Related Terms
LiabilityGeneral Liability InsurancePersonal Injury
Baggage Insurance
General
Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal items during travel, typically included in comprehensive travel insurance policies.
Related Terms
Travel InsurancePersonal Property CoverageLost Luggage
Bid Bond
Business
A surety bond submitted with a construction bid that guarantees the bidder will enter into the contract and provide required performance and payment bonds if awarded the project.
Related Terms
Performance BondSurety BondConstruction Bid

C

Claim
Claims
A formal request by a policyholder to an insurance company for coverage or compensation for a covered loss or policy event.
Related Terms
AdjusterCoverageDeductible
Collision Coverage
Auto
Insurance coverage that pays for damage to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object.
Related Terms
Comprehensive CoverageDeductiblePremium
Comprehensive Coverage
Auto
Insurance coverage for damage to your vehicle from causes other than collision, such as theft, vandalism, fire, weather events, or hitting an animal.
Related Terms
Collision CoverageDeductiblePremium
Copayment
Health
A fixed amount you pay for a covered health care service, usually when you receive the service.
Related Terms
CoinsuranceDeductibleOut-of-Pocket Maximum
Coverage
General
The scope of protection provided under an insurance policy, including the types of losses and risks that are covered.
Related Terms
PolicyExclusionLimit
Coinsurance
Health
A cost-sharing arrangement where the insured pays a specified percentage of covered expenses after the deductible is met.
Related Terms
CopaymentDeductibleOut-of-Pocket Maximum
Cash Value
Life
The savings component of a permanent life insurance policy that accumulates over time and can be borrowed against or withdrawn.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceUniversal Life InsurancePremium
Commercial General Liability
Business
Insurance that protects businesses against claims of bodily injury, property damage, personal injury, and advertising injury that occur during normal business operations.
Related Terms
Professional LiabilityProduct LiabilityLiability Coverage
Commercial Property Insurance
Business
Insurance that covers buildings, equipment, inventory, and other physical assets owned or used by a business against damage from fire, theft, vandalism, and other covered perils.
Related Terms
Business Interruption InsuranceProperty InsuranceReplacement Cost
Cyber Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against losses from data breaches, cyberattacks, network security failures, and privacy violations.
Related Terms
Data BreachNetwork SecurityProfessional Liability Insurance
Commercial Auto Insurance
Business
Insurance coverage for vehicles owned or used by a business, providing liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage for business vehicles and drivers.
Related Terms
Auto InsuranceFleet InsuranceLiability Coverage
Commercial Umbrella Insurance
Business
Additional liability coverage that extends beyond the limits of a business's primary liability policies, providing extra protection against large claims.
Related Terms
Umbrella PolicyCommercial General LiabilityExcess Liability
Crime Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against losses from criminal acts such as theft, burglary, robbery, forgery, and computer fraud.
Related Terms
Fidelity BondEmployee DishonestyCyber Liability Insurance
Contingent Business Interruption
Business
Coverage that protects a business against income loss when operations are disrupted due to damage at a supplier's, customer's, or other dependent business location.
Related Terms
Business Interruption InsuranceSupply Chain InsuranceBusiness Income Coverage
Contractor Insurance
Business
Comprehensive coverage for construction contractors including general liability, workers' compensation, tools and equipment coverage, and professional liability for design-build projects.
Related Terms
Builders Risk InsuranceCommercial General LiabilityWorkers' Compensation Insurance
Combined Ratio
Industry
The sum of the loss ratio and expense ratio, measuring an insurer's overall underwriting profitability. A ratio below 100% indicates underwriting profit.
Related Terms
Loss RatioExpense RatioUnderwriting
Captive Insurance
Industry
An insurance company created and owned by a business or group of businesses to insure their own risks, providing more control over coverage and potential cost savings.
Related Terms
Self-InsuranceRisk RetentionAlternative Risk Transfer
Certificate of Insurance
Industry
A document issued by an insurer or agent that verifies the existence of insurance coverage and summarizes key policy information for third parties.
Related Terms
PolicyProof of InsuranceAdditional Insured
Claims-Made Policy
Industry
An insurance policy that covers claims only if both the incident and the claim occur during the policy period or extended reporting period.
Related Terms
Occurrence PolicyTail CoverageRetroactive Date
Certificate Holder
Industry
A person or entity who has a certificate of insurance (COI) in their possession, which could be the policyholder or someone who requested proof of insurance. Being a certificate holder does not necessarily mean coverage under the policy.
Related Terms
Certificate of InsuranceAdditional InsuredNamed Insured
Claimant
Claims
The person or business that makes a claim to the insured person or their insurance company, seeking compensation for damages or losses.
Related Terms
ClaimThird PartySettlement
Claims-Made Policy
General
A type of insurance policy that covers claims that are made against the insured during the policy period, regardless of when the incident occurred. Claims made after the policy ends would not be covered unless tail coverage is purchased.
Related Terms
Occurrence PolicyTail CoverageProfessional Liability Insurance
Class of Business
Industry
The type of industry a business falls into, such as 'construction' or 'professional services.' Used by insurers to determine risk levels and set coverage limits and premium costs.
Related Terms
UnderwritingRisk ClassificationPremium
Cash Value
Life
The savings component of permanent life insurance policies that accumulates over time and can be borrowed against or withdrawn by the policyholder.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceUniversal Life InsuranceLoan
Commercial Auto Insurance
Business
Insurance coverage for vehicles owned by a business and used for business purposes, providing higher liability limits and different coverage than personal auto policies.
Related Terms
Business InsuranceLiabilityFleet Insurance
Crime Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against financial losses from employee theft, forgery, fraud, robbery, and other criminal acts.
Related Terms
Business InsuranceEmployee TheftFraud
Certificate Holder
Industry
A person or entity who has a certificate of insurance (COI) in their possession, which could be the policyholder or someone who requested proof of insurance. Being a certificate holder does not necessarily mean coverage under the policy.
Related Terms
Certificate of InsuranceAdditional InsuredNamed Insured
Claimant
Claims
The person or business that makes a claim to the insured person or their insurance company, seeking compensation for damages or losses.
Related Terms
ClaimThird PartySettlement
Claims-Made Policy
General
A type of insurance policy that covers claims that are made against the insured during the policy period, regardless of when the incident occurred. Claims made after the policy ends would not be covered unless tail coverage is purchased.
Related Terms
Occurrence PolicyTail CoverageProfessional Liability Insurance
Class of Business
Industry
The type of industry a business falls into, such as 'construction' or 'professional services.' Used by insurers to determine risk levels and set coverage limits and premium costs.
Related Terms
UnderwritingRisk ClassificationPremium
Cash Value
Life
The savings component of permanent life insurance policies that accumulates over time and can be borrowed against or withdrawn by the policyholder.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceUniversal Life InsuranceLoan
Commercial Auto Insurance
Business
Insurance coverage for vehicles owned by a business and used for business purposes, providing higher liability limits and different coverage than personal auto policies.
Related Terms
Business InsuranceLiabilityFleet Insurance
Crime Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against financial losses from employee theft, forgery, fraud, robbery, and other criminal acts.
Related Terms
Business InsuranceEmployee TheftFraud

D

Deductible
General
The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage begins to pay for covered losses.
Related Terms
PremiumCoverageClaim
Depreciation
Property
The decrease in value of property over time due to wear, tear, age, or obsolescence.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueReplacement Cost
Disability Insurance
Health
Insurance that provides income replacement if you become unable to work due to illness or injury.
Related Terms
Health InsurancePremiumBenefit
Death Benefit
Life
The amount paid to beneficiaries upon the death of the insured under a life insurance policy.
Related Terms
BeneficiaryLife InsurancePolicy
Directors and Officers Insurance
Business
Liability insurance that protects the personal assets of corporate directors and officers if they are sued for alleged wrongful acts in managing a company.
Related Terms
Employment Practices LiabilityFiduciary LiabilityProfessional Liability Insurance
Daycare Insurance
Business
Specialized coverage for childcare facilities including general liability, abuse and molestation coverage, property insurance, and professional liability for educational services.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityProfessional Liability InsuranceAbuse and Molestation Coverage
Death Benefit
Life
The amount of money paid to beneficiaries upon the death of the insured person under a life insurance policy.
Related Terms
BeneficiaryLife InsurancePolicy
Dwelling Coverage
Property
The part of a homeowners or renters insurance policy that covers damage to the physical structure of your home, including walls, roof, and built-in appliances.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceReplacement CostStructure
Death Benefit
Life
The amount of money paid to beneficiaries upon the death of the insured person under a life insurance policy.
Related Terms
BeneficiaryLife InsurancePolicy
Dwelling Coverage
Property
The part of a homeowners or renters insurance policy that covers damage to the physical structure of your home, including walls, roof, and built-in appliances.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceReplacement CostStructure

E

Exclusion
General
Specific conditions, circumstances, or types of losses that are not covered by an insurance policy.
Related Terms
CoveragePolicyEndorsement
Endorsement
General
A written amendment or addition to an insurance policy that modifies the coverage, terms, or conditions.
Related Terms
RiderPolicyCoverage
Employment Practices Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against claims by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, or other employment-related issues.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceWorkers' Compensation InsuranceLiability Coverage
Errors and Omissions Insurance
Business
Professional liability coverage that protects service providers against claims of inadequate work, negligent actions, or failure to perform services as promised.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceMalpractice InsuranceCommercial General Liability
Extra Expense Coverage
Business
Insurance that pays for additional costs incurred to continue business operations following a covered loss, such as renting temporary space or equipment.
Related Terms
Business Interruption InsuranceBusiness Income CoverageCommercial Property Insurance
Equipment Breakdown Insurance
Business
Coverage for repair or replacement of mechanical and electrical equipment that breaks down due to internal causes such as motor burnout, electrical arcing, or mechanical failure.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBoiler and Machinery InsuranceBusiness Interruption Insurance
Event Insurance
Business
Short-term coverage for special events including general liability, liquor liability, event cancellation, and property coverage for rented equipment and venues.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityLiquor Liability InsuranceCancellation Insurance
EPO
Health
Exclusive Provider Organization - a health insurance plan that covers services only if you use doctors, specialists, or hospitals in the plan's network, except in emergencies.
Related Terms
HMOPPOHealth Insurance
Equipment Breakdown Coverage
Property
Insurance that covers the cost of repairing or replacing home systems and appliances that break down due to mechanical or electrical failure, such as HVAC systems or water heaters.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceMechanical FailureAppliance
Extended Replacement Cost
Property
Coverage that pays more than the dwelling coverage limit (typically 125-150%) to rebuild your home if construction costs have increased since the policy was written.
Related Terms
Replacement Cost CoverageDwelling CoverageInflation
Earthquake Insurance
Property
Separate coverage for damage caused by earthquakes, typically not included in standard homeowners policies and requiring a separate policy or endorsement with its own deductible.
Related Terms
Flood InsuranceCatastrophic CoverageExclusion
Employment Practices Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against claims by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, or other employment-related issues.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceBusiness LiabilityWrongful Termination
EPO
Health
Exclusive Provider Organization - a health insurance plan that covers services only if you use doctors, specialists, or hospitals in the plan's network, except in emergencies.
Related Terms
HMOPPOHealth Insurance
Equipment Breakdown Coverage
Property
Insurance that covers the cost of repairing or replacing home systems and appliances that break down due to mechanical or electrical failure, such as HVAC systems or water heaters.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceMechanical FailureAppliance
Extended Replacement Cost
Property
Coverage that pays more than the dwelling coverage limit (typically 125-150%) to rebuild your home if construction costs have increased since the policy was written.
Related Terms
Replacement Cost CoverageDwelling CoverageInflation
Earthquake Insurance
Property
Separate coverage for damage caused by earthquakes, typically not included in standard homeowners policies and requiring a separate policy or endorsement with its own deductible.
Related Terms
Flood InsuranceCatastrophic CoverageExclusion
Employment Practices Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against claims by employees alleging discrimination, wrongful termination, harassment, or other employment-related issues.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceBusiness LiabilityWrongful Termination

F

Flood Insurance
Property
Specialized insurance coverage for property damage caused by flooding, typically not covered by standard homeowners insurance.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceCoverageExclusion
Fidelity Bond
Business
Insurance that protects a business against losses caused by employee dishonesty, theft, fraud, or embezzlement.
Related Terms
Crime InsuranceEmployee DishonestyCommercial General Liability
Fiduciary Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects those who manage employee benefit plans against claims of mismanagement, breach of fiduciary duty, or errors in plan administration.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceERISAEmployee Benefits
Fitness Center Insurance
Business
Coverage for gyms and fitness facilities including general liability, professional liability for trainers, property coverage for equipment, and sexual abuse and molestation coverage.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityProfessional Liability InsuranceEquipment Coverage
Flexible Spending Account
Health
An employer-sponsored account that allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare or dependent care expenses, with use-it-or-lose-it provisions.
Related Terms
Health Savings AccountMedical ExpensesTax Benefit
Fleet Insurance
Business
Commercial auto insurance that covers multiple vehicles (typically 5 or more) owned by a business under a single policy, often at discounted rates.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceBusiness InsuranceMultiple Vehicles
Fiduciary Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage for businesses that manage employee benefit plans, protecting against claims of mismanagement or breach of fiduciary duty under ERISA.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceEmployee BenefitsERISA
Fidelity Bond
Business
Insurance that protects businesses against losses caused by fraudulent or dishonest acts by employees, including theft and embezzlement.
Related Terms
Crime InsuranceEmployee TheftSurety Bond
Flexible Spending Account
Health
An employer-sponsored account that allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare or dependent care expenses, with use-it-or-lose-it provisions.
Related Terms
Health Savings AccountMedical ExpensesTax Benefit
Fleet Insurance
Business
Commercial auto insurance that covers multiple vehicles (typically 5 or more) owned by a business under a single policy, often at discounted rates.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceBusiness InsuranceMultiple Vehicles
Fiduciary Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage for businesses that manage employee benefit plans, protecting against claims of mismanagement or breach of fiduciary duty under ERISA.
Related Terms
Directors and Officers InsuranceEmployee BenefitsERISA
Fidelity Bond
Business
Insurance that protects businesses against losses caused by fraudulent or dishonest acts by employees, including theft and embezzlement.
Related Terms
Crime InsuranceEmployee TheftSurety Bond

G

Grace Period
General
A specified period after a premium payment is due during which the policy remains in force without penalty.
Related Terms
PremiumLapsePolicy
Golf Cart Insurance
Auto
Insurance coverage for golf carts used on golf courses or private property, typically including liability, physical damage, and medical payments. May be covered under homeowners insurance or require separate policy.
Related Terms
Auto InsuranceLiability CoverageHomeowners Insurance
Garage Liability Insurance
Business
Specialized coverage for auto repair shops, dealerships, and parking garages, protecting against liability claims arising from business operations and customer vehicles.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceGaragekeepers InsuranceCommercial General Liability
Garagekeepers Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects auto repair shops and parking facilities against liability for damage to customers' vehicles while in their care, custody, or control.
Related Terms
Garage Liability InsuranceBailee CoverageCommercial General Liability
Gap Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance coverage that pays the difference between what you owe on your car loan or lease and the vehicle's actual cash value if it's totaled or stolen.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueTotal LossLoan Payoff
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance that doesn't require a medical exam or health questions, guaranteeing acceptance but typically offering lower coverage amounts and higher premiums.
Related Terms
Simplified IssueLife InsuranceUnderwriting
Guaranteed Replacement Cost
Property
The most comprehensive coverage that pays whatever it costs to rebuild your home to its original condition, even if it exceeds your policy limits, regardless of construction cost increases.
Related Terms
Extended Replacement CostDwelling CoverageUnlimited
Gap Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance coverage that pays the difference between what you owe on your car loan or lease and the vehicle's actual cash value if it's totaled or stolen.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueTotal LossLoan Payoff
Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance that doesn't require a medical exam or health questions, guaranteeing acceptance but typically offering lower coverage amounts and higher premiums.
Related Terms
Simplified IssueLife InsuranceUnderwriting
Guaranteed Replacement Cost
Property
The most comprehensive coverage that pays whatever it costs to rebuild your home to its original condition, even if it exceeds your policy limits, regardless of construction cost increases.
Related Terms
Extended Replacement CostDwelling CoverageUnlimited

H

Hazard
General
A condition or situation that increases the likelihood or potential severity of a loss.
Related Terms
RiskPerilUnderwriting
Homeowners Insurance
Property
Insurance coverage that protects your home and personal property against damage, theft, and liability claims.
Related Terms
Property InsuranceLiability CoverageDeductible
Hospitality Insurance
Business
Comprehensive coverage for hotels, motels, and lodging businesses including property, general liability, liquor liability, employment practices liability, and business interruption.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceLiquor Liability InsuranceBusiness Interruption Insurance
HMO
Health
Health Maintenance Organization - a type of health insurance plan that requires members to use network providers and obtain referrals from a primary care physician to see specialists.
Related Terms
PPOHealth InsuranceNetwork Provider
High Deductible Health Plan
Health
A health insurance plan with lower premiums and higher deductibles than traditional plans, often paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) for tax-advantaged savings.
Related Terms
DeductibleHealth Savings AccountPremium
Health Savings Account
Health
A tax-advantaged savings account available to individuals enrolled in high-deductible health plans, allowing pre-tax contributions for qualified medical expenses.
Related Terms
High Deductible Health PlanMedical ExpensesTax Deduction
Hurricane Deductible
Property
A separate deductible that applies specifically to hurricane damage, typically a percentage of the dwelling coverage (2-5%), and only triggered when a hurricane is officially declared.
Related Terms
Windstorm DeductiblePercentage DeductibleNamed Storm
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage
Business
Business insurance that covers liability for vehicles rented by the company or employees' personal vehicles used for business purposes.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceBusiness LiabilityEmployee Vehicles
HMO
Health
Health Maintenance Organization - a type of health insurance plan that requires members to use network providers and obtain referrals from a primary care physician to see specialists.
Related Terms
PPOHealth InsuranceNetwork Provider
High Deductible Health Plan
Health
A health insurance plan with lower premiums and higher deductibles than traditional plans, often paired with a Health Savings Account (HSA) for tax-advantaged savings.
Related Terms
DeductibleHealth Savings AccountPremium
Health Savings Account
Health
A tax-advantaged savings account available to individuals enrolled in high-deductible health plans, allowing pre-tax contributions for qualified medical expenses.
Related Terms
High Deductible Health PlanMedical ExpensesTax Deduction
Hurricane Deductible
Property
A separate deductible that applies specifically to hurricane damage, typically a percentage of the dwelling coverage (2-5%), and only triggered when a hurricane is officially declared.
Related Terms
Windstorm DeductiblePercentage DeductibleNamed Storm
Hired and Non-Owned Auto Coverage
Business
Business insurance that covers liability for vehicles rented by the company or employees' personal vehicles used for business purposes.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceBusiness LiabilityEmployee Vehicles

I

Indemnity
General
Compensation for loss or damage, restoring the insured to their financial position before the loss occurred.
Related Terms
ClaimLossCoverage
Insured
General
The person or entity covered by an insurance policy and protected against specified losses or risks.
Related Terms
PolicyholderBeneficiaryCoverage
Insurer
General
The insurance company that provides coverage and agrees to pay for covered losses in exchange for premium payments.
Related Terms
PolicyPremiumCoverage
Inland Marine Insurance
Business
Coverage for movable property, equipment, and goods in transit over land, including tools, equipment, and merchandise being transported or stored off-premises.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceEquipment CoverageTransit Insurance
IBNR
Industry
Incurred But Not Reported - reserves set aside for insurance claims that have occurred but have not yet been reported to the insurer.
Related Terms
Loss ReserveClaimsActuarial
Inland Marine Insurance
Business
Coverage that helps protect tools and equipment if they get damaged or stolen while in transit or temporarily stored at a location other than the main business premises.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceEquipment CoverageTools Coverage
Identity Theft Coverage
General
Coverage that reimburses expenses related to restoring your identity after theft, such as legal fees, lost wages, and document replacement costs.
Related Terms
Personal Property CoverageFraudCredit Monitoring
Inland Marine Insurance
Business
Coverage that helps protect tools and equipment if they get damaged or stolen while in transit or temporarily stored at a location other than the main business premises.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceEquipment CoverageTools Coverage
Identity Theft Coverage
General
Coverage that reimburses expenses related to restoring your identity after theft, such as legal fees, lost wages, and document replacement costs.
Related Terms
Personal Property CoverageFraudCredit Monitoring

L

Liability Coverage
General
Insurance that covers legal responsibility for injuries or damage caused to others or their property.
Related Terms
Liability LimitPremiumClaim
Liability Limit
General
The maximum amount an insurance policy will pay for covered liability claims.
Related Terms
Liability CoveragePolicy LimitCoverage
Lapse
General
The termination of an insurance policy due to non-payment of premiums or other policy requirements.
Related Terms
Grace PeriodPremiumPolicy
Loss
General
The basis of a claim for damages under the terms of an insurance policy.
Related Terms
ClaimCoverageIndemnity
Long-Term Care Insurance
Health
Insurance that covers the cost of long-term care services, such as nursing home care or in-home assistance.
Related Terms
Health InsurancePremiumBenefit
Liquor Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage for businesses that manufacture, sell, serve, or distribute alcoholic beverages, protecting against claims arising from alcohol-related incidents.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityDram Shop LiabilityHospitality Insurance
Legal Malpractice Insurance
Business
Professional liability insurance for attorneys and law firms covering claims of negligence, missed deadlines, conflicts of interest, or errors in legal advice.
Related Terms
Malpractice InsuranceProfessional Liability InsuranceErrors and Omissions Insurance
Landscaping Insurance
Business
Insurance for landscaping businesses covering general liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, inland marine for equipment, and pollution liability for pesticide use.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityInland Marine InsurancePollution Liability Insurance
Loss Ratio
Industry
The ratio of losses paid plus loss reserves to premiums earned, used by insurers to measure underwriting profitability and pricing adequacy.
Related Terms
Combined RatioUnderwritingPremium
Loss Reserve
Industry
Funds set aside by an insurance company to pay future claims that have been reported but not yet settled (case reserves) or that have occurred but not been reported (IBNR).
Related Terms
IBNRCase ReserveClaims
Loss Payable Provision
Industry
An endorsement where an insurer makes claim payments to a third party instead of the named insured, often included when multiple parties have a financial interest in the insured property.
Related Terms
Loss PayeeNamed InsuredEndorsement
Loss Payee
Industry
The person or entity entitled to payment when an insurance claim is settled, which may be the policyholder or another party with a financial interest in the insured property.
Related Terms
Loss Payable ProvisionBeneficiaryNamed Insured
Living Benefit
Life
A life insurance policy feature that allows the policyholder to access a portion of the death benefit while still alive, typically in cases of terminal illness or chronic conditions.
Related Terms
Death BenefitAccelerated Death BenefitTerminal Illness
Loss of Use Coverage
Property
Coverage that pays for additional living expenses if you must temporarily relocate due to a covered loss that makes your home uninhabitable, such as fire or severe storm damage.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceAdditional Living ExpensesTemporary Housing
Loss Damage Waiver
Auto
An optional rental car agreement (not insurance) that waives the rental company's right to hold you financially responsible for damage or theft of the rental vehicle.
Related Terms
Rental Car InsuranceCollision Damage WaiverRental Agreement
Loan/Lease Payoff Coverage
Auto
Similar to gap insurance, this coverage pays the difference between your vehicle's actual cash value and the remaining loan or lease balance after a total loss.
Related Terms
Gap InsuranceTotal LossAuto Loan
License and Permit Bond
Business
A surety bond required by government agencies to obtain certain business licenses or permits, guaranteeing compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Related Terms
Surety BondBusiness LicenseCompliance
Loss Payable Provision
Industry
An endorsement where an insurer makes claim payments to a third party instead of the named insured, often included when multiple parties have a financial interest in the insured property.
Related Terms
Loss PayeeNamed InsuredEndorsement
Loss Payee
Industry
The person or entity entitled to payment when an insurance claim is settled, which may be the policyholder or another party with a financial interest in the insured property.
Related Terms
Loss Payable ProvisionBeneficiaryNamed Insured
Living Benefit
Life
A life insurance policy feature that allows the policyholder to access a portion of the death benefit while still alive, typically in cases of terminal illness or chronic conditions.
Related Terms
Death BenefitAccelerated Death BenefitTerminal Illness
Loss of Use Coverage
Property
Coverage that pays for additional living expenses if you must temporarily relocate due to a covered loss that makes your home uninhabitable, such as fire or severe storm damage.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceAdditional Living ExpensesTemporary Housing
Loss Damage Waiver
Auto
An optional rental car agreement (not insurance) that waives the rental company's right to hold you financially responsible for damage or theft of the rental vehicle.
Related Terms
Rental Car InsuranceCollision Damage WaiverRental Agreement
Loan/Lease Payoff Coverage
Auto
Similar to gap insurance, this coverage pays the difference between your vehicle's actual cash value and the remaining loan or lease balance after a total loss.
Related Terms
Gap InsuranceTotal LossAuto Loan
License and Permit Bond
Business
A surety bond required by government agencies to obtain certain business licenses or permits, guaranteeing compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Related Terms
Surety BondBusiness LicenseCompliance

M

Motorcycle Insurance
Auto
Specialized insurance coverage for motorcycles including liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, and optional coverages like accessory coverage and roadside assistance.
Related Terms
Auto InsuranceCollision CoverageComprehensive Coverage
Malpractice Insurance
Business
Professional liability coverage for licensed professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and accountants, protecting against claims of negligence or inadequate professional services.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceErrors and Omissions InsuranceMedical Malpractice
Media Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage for businesses involved in advertising, publishing, or broadcasting, protecting against claims of libel, slander, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceCyber Liability InsuranceAdvertising Injury
Medical Malpractice Insurance
Business
Professional liability coverage for healthcare providers protecting against claims of medical negligence, errors in diagnosis or treatment, and failure to obtain informed consent.
Related Terms
Malpractice InsuranceProfessional Liability InsuranceHealthcare Insurance
Medical Payments Coverage
General
Coverage that pays medical expenses for guests injured on your property, regardless of fault, typically included in homeowners and auto insurance policies with relatively low limits.
Related Terms
Personal Liability CoverageBodily InjuryGuest
Mold Coverage
Property
Limited coverage for mold damage that results from a covered peril, with most policies capping mold remediation at $10,000-$50,000 and excluding mold from maintenance issues.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceWater DamageExclusion
Maintenance Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will repair defects in workmanship or materials for a specified period after project completion, typically one year.
Related Terms
Performance BondWarrantyConstruction
Medical Payments Coverage
General
Coverage that pays medical expenses for guests injured on your property, regardless of fault, typically included in homeowners and auto insurance policies with relatively low limits.
Related Terms
Personal Liability CoverageBodily InjuryGuest
Mold Coverage
Property
Limited coverage for mold damage that results from a covered peril, with most policies capping mold remediation at $10,000-$50,000 and excluding mold from maintenance issues.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceWater DamageExclusion
Maintenance Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will repair defects in workmanship or materials for a specified period after project completion, typically one year.
Related Terms
Performance BondWarrantyConstruction

P

Peril
General
The cause of a possible loss, such as fire, theft, windstorm, or collision.
Related Terms
HazardRiskCoverage
Policy
General
The written contract between the insurer and insured that outlines the terms, conditions, coverage, and exclusions of the insurance agreement.
Related Terms
CoveragePremiumEndorsement
Policyholder
General
The person or entity that owns an insurance policy and is responsible for premium payments.
Related Terms
InsuredPolicyPremium
Premium
General
The amount paid by the policyholder to the insurance company for coverage, typically on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis.
Related Terms
PolicyDeductibleCoverage
Pre-existing Condition
Health
A health condition that existed before the start date of a new insurance policy.
Related Terms
CoverageExclusionHealth Insurance
Professional Liability Insurance
Business
Also known as Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, this coverage protects professionals against claims of negligence, mistakes, or failure to perform professional duties.
Related Terms
Errors and OmissionsMalpractice InsuranceCommercial General Liability
Product Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects manufacturers, distributors, and retailers against claims of injury or damage caused by defective products.
Related Terms
Commercial General LiabilityProfessional Liability InsuranceLiability Coverage
Pollution Liability Insurance
Business
Coverage that protects businesses against claims and cleanup costs related to pollution, contamination, or environmental damage caused by business operations.
Related Terms
Environmental LiabilityCommercial General LiabilityCleanup Costs
Per Occurrence Limit
Industry
The maximum amount an insurance policy will pay for a single claim or occurrence, separate from the aggregate limit.
Related Terms
Aggregate LimitPolicy LimitLiability Limit
Primary and Noncontributory
Industry
'Primary' means the insurance policy responds to a covered claim first before another policy. 'Non-contributory' means the policy must respond without requesting the other policy contribute to paying the claim.
Related Terms
Additional InsuredEndorsementCoverage
Products-Completed Operations Aggregate
Business
The maximum amount of coverage offered under a general liability insurance policy for claims and lawsuits related to injury, illness, or property damage caused by delivered products or completed services.
Related Terms
General Liability InsuranceAggregate LimitProduct Liability
PPO
Health
Preferred Provider Organization - a type of health insurance plan that offers more flexibility than an HMO, allowing members to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost without referrals.
Related Terms
HMOHealth InsuranceNetwork Provider
POS Plan
Health
Point of Service Plan - a health insurance plan that combines features of HMO and PPO plans, requiring a primary care physician but allowing out-of-network care at higher costs.
Related Terms
HMOPPOHealth Insurance
Personal Property Coverage
Property
Insurance coverage for personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics against theft, damage, or loss, typically included in homeowners and renters policies.
Related Terms
Renters InsuranceHomeowners InsuranceContents
Personal Liability Coverage
Property
Protection against lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that you or family members cause to others, typically included in homeowners and renters insurance policies.
Related Terms
LiabilityHomeowners InsuranceLawsuit
Pet Insurance
General
Coverage for veterinary expenses related to illness, injury, or preventive care for pets, with policies varying in coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
Related Terms
Health InsuranceVeterinary CareWellness Coverage
Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance pricing based primarily on miles driven, with a low base rate plus a per-mile charge, ideal for low-mileage drivers.
Related Terms
Usage-Based InsuranceMileageLow-Mileage Discount
Performance Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will complete a project according to contract terms, protecting the project owner from financial loss if the contractor defaults.
Related Terms
Surety BondConstructionContract
Payment Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will pay subcontractors, laborers, and material suppliers, protecting them from non-payment if the contractor defaults.
Related Terms
Performance BondSurety BondConstruction
Prior Acts Coverage
General
Coverage under a claims-made policy for incidents that occurred before the policy's retroactive date, protecting against claims for past work when switching insurers.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyRetroactive DateProfessional Liability Insurance
Primary and Noncontributory
Industry
'Primary' means the insurance policy responds to a covered claim first before another policy. 'Non-contributory' means the policy must respond without requesting the other policy contribute to paying the claim.
Related Terms
Additional InsuredEndorsementCoverage
Products-Completed Operations Aggregate
Business
The maximum amount of coverage offered under a general liability insurance policy for claims and lawsuits related to injury, illness, or property damage caused by delivered products or completed services.
Related Terms
General Liability InsuranceAggregate LimitProduct Liability
PPO
Health
Preferred Provider Organization - a type of health insurance plan that offers more flexibility than an HMO, allowing members to see out-of-network providers at a higher cost without referrals.
Related Terms
HMOHealth InsuranceNetwork Provider
POS Plan
Health
Point of Service Plan - a health insurance plan that combines features of HMO and PPO plans, requiring a primary care physician but allowing out-of-network care at higher costs.
Related Terms
HMOPPOHealth Insurance
Personal Property Coverage
Property
Insurance coverage for personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics against theft, damage, or loss, typically included in homeowners and renters policies.
Related Terms
Renters InsuranceHomeowners InsuranceContents
Personal Liability Coverage
Property
Protection against lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that you or family members cause to others, typically included in homeowners and renters insurance policies.
Related Terms
LiabilityHomeowners InsuranceLawsuit
Pet Insurance
General
Coverage for veterinary expenses related to illness, injury, or preventive care for pets, with policies varying in coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions.
Related Terms
Health InsuranceVeterinary CareWellness Coverage
Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance pricing based primarily on miles driven, with a low base rate plus a per-mile charge, ideal for low-mileage drivers.
Related Terms
Usage-Based InsuranceMileageLow-Mileage Discount
Performance Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will complete a project according to contract terms, protecting the project owner from financial loss if the contractor defaults.
Related Terms
Surety BondConstructionContract
Payment Bond
Business
A surety bond that guarantees a contractor will pay subcontractors, laborers, and material suppliers, protecting them from non-payment if the contractor defaults.
Related Terms
Performance BondSurety BondConstruction
Prior Acts Coverage
General
Coverage under a claims-made policy for incidents that occurred before the policy's retroactive date, protecting against claims for past work when switching insurers.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyRetroactive DateProfessional Liability Insurance

R

Replacement Cost
Property
The cost to replace damaged or destroyed property with new property of similar kind and quality, without deduction for depreciation.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueDepreciationCoverage
Rider
General
An add-on provision to an insurance policy that provides additional coverage or modifies the standard policy terms.
Related Terms
EndorsementPolicyCoverage
Risk
General
The chance of loss or the person, property, or entity insured under a policy.
Related Terms
HazardPerilUnderwriting
Renters Insurance
Property
Insurance coverage for tenants that protects personal property and provides liability coverage, but does not cover the building structure.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceLiability CoveragePersonal Property
Restaurant Insurance
Business
Specialized insurance package for restaurants and food service businesses, typically including general liability, property coverage, liquor liability, and food contamination coverage.
Related Terms
Liquor Liability InsuranceCommercial General LiabilityBusiness Owners Policy
Retail Insurance
Business
Insurance coverage designed for retail businesses, including property coverage for inventory and fixtures, general liability, business interruption, and employee dishonesty coverage.
Related Terms
Commercial Property InsuranceBusiness Owners PolicyCrime Insurance
Real Estate Errors and Omissions
Business
Professional liability insurance for real estate agents and brokers covering claims of negligence, misrepresentation, failure to disclose, or errors in transactions.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceErrors and Omissions InsuranceReal Estate Insurance
Reinsurance
Industry
Insurance purchased by insurance companies to transfer portions of their risk portfolios to other insurers, reducing the likelihood of large payouts from claims.
Related Terms
Risk TransferCeding CompanyRetrocession
Retention
Industry
The amount of risk or loss that an insured retains before insurance coverage applies, similar to a deductible but typically used in commercial insurance.
Related Terms
DeductibleSelf-Insured RetentionRisk Retention
Retroactive Date
Industry
The date in a claims-made policy before which incidents are not covered, even if the claim is made during the policy period.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyPrior Acts CoverageCoverage Trigger
Rider
General
Also known as an endorsement, this is an insurance policy form that changes or adds to the provisions included in the base policy, modifying coverage terms or adding additional coverage.
Related Terms
EndorsementPolicyCoverage
Replacement Cost Coverage
Property
Insurance that pays to replace damaged property with new items of similar kind and quality without deducting for depreciation, resulting in higher payouts than actual cash value coverage.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueDepreciationClaim
Rental Car Insurance
Auto
Coverage for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle, which may be provided by your personal auto policy, credit card, or purchased from the rental company.
Related Terms
Collision CoverageComprehensive CoverageLoss Damage Waiver
Roadside Assistance
Auto
Coverage that provides services like towing, tire changes, jump starts, and lockout assistance when your vehicle breaks down, often available as an auto insurance add-on.
Related Terms
Towing CoverageEmergency ServiceAuto Insurance
Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Auto
Auto insurance coverage that pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident, typically with daily and total limits.
Related Terms
Auto InsuranceCollision CoverageRental Car
Rideshare Insurance
Auto
Coverage designed for drivers who work for rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft, filling gaps between personal auto insurance and the company's commercial coverage.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceUberLyft
Retroactive Date
General
The date from which a claims-made policy provides coverage for incidents, with claims only covered if the incident occurred on or after this date.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyPrior Acts CoverageCoverage Period
Rider
General
Also known as an endorsement, this is an insurance policy form that changes or adds to the provisions included in the base policy, modifying coverage terms or adding additional coverage.
Related Terms
EndorsementPolicyCoverage
Replacement Cost Coverage
Property
Insurance that pays to replace damaged property with new items of similar kind and quality without deducting for depreciation, resulting in higher payouts than actual cash value coverage.
Related Terms
Actual Cash ValueDepreciationClaim
Rental Car Insurance
Auto
Coverage for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle, which may be provided by your personal auto policy, credit card, or purchased from the rental company.
Related Terms
Collision CoverageComprehensive CoverageLoss Damage Waiver
Roadside Assistance
Auto
Coverage that provides services like towing, tire changes, jump starts, and lockout assistance when your vehicle breaks down, often available as an auto insurance add-on.
Related Terms
Towing CoverageEmergency ServiceAuto Insurance
Rental Reimbursement Coverage
Auto
Auto insurance coverage that pays for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired after a covered accident, typically with daily and total limits.
Related Terms
Auto InsuranceCollision CoverageRental Car
Rideshare Insurance
Auto
Coverage designed for drivers who work for rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft, filling gaps between personal auto insurance and the company's commercial coverage.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceUberLyft
Retroactive Date
General
The date from which a claims-made policy provides coverage for incidents, with claims only covered if the incident occurred on or after this date.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyPrior Acts CoverageCoverage Period

S

Subrogation
Claims
The right of an insurer to pursue a third party that caused an insurance loss to the insured, allowing the insurer to recover the amount paid to the insured.
Related Terms
ClaimLossSettlement
Surety Bond
Business
A three-party agreement where the surety guarantees to the obligee that the principal will fulfill their contractual obligations, commonly required in construction and government contracts.
Related Terms
Performance BondPayment BondContract Bond
Salon and Spa Insurance
Business
Specialized coverage for beauty and wellness businesses including general liability, professional liability for services, property coverage, and product liability.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceCommercial General LiabilityProduct Liability Insurance
Surplus Lines Insurance
Industry
Insurance coverage from non-admitted insurers for risks that standard insurance companies won't cover, often for unusual or high-risk exposures.
Related Terms
Non-Admitted InsurerExcess and SurplusSpecialty Insurance
Self-Insured Retention
Industry
A specified dollar amount that the insured must pay on a claim before the insurance policy responds, commonly used in liability policies.
Related Terms
RetentionDeductibleSelf-Insurance
Simplified Issue Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance that requires answering health questions but no medical exam, offering faster approval than fully underwritten policies with moderate coverage amounts.
Related Terms
Guaranteed Issue Life InsuranceUnderwritingMedical Exam
Scheduled Personal Property
Property
Additional coverage for high-value items like jewelry, art, or collectibles that exceed standard policy limits, requiring appraisals and separate listing on the policy.
Related Terms
Personal Property CoverageJewelry InsuranceAppraisal
Sinkhole Coverage
Property
Insurance coverage for damage caused by sinkholes, which may be included, excluded, or available as an endorsement depending on the state and insurer.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceCatastrophic CoverageGround Movement
Surety Bond
Business
A three-party agreement where a surety guarantees to an obligee that a principal will fulfill an obligation, such as completing a construction project or obtaining a business license.
Related Terms
Fidelity BondPerformance BondContract
Simplified Issue Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance that requires answering health questions but no medical exam, offering faster approval than fully underwritten policies with moderate coverage amounts.
Related Terms
Guaranteed Issue Life InsuranceUnderwritingMedical Exam
Scheduled Personal Property
Property
Additional coverage for high-value items like jewelry, art, or collectibles that exceed standard policy limits, requiring appraisals and separate listing on the policy.
Related Terms
Personal Property CoverageJewelry InsuranceAppraisal
Sinkhole Coverage
Property
Insurance coverage for damage caused by sinkholes, which may be included, excluded, or available as an endorsement depending on the state and insurer.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceCatastrophic CoverageGround Movement
Surety Bond
Business
A three-party agreement where a surety guarantees to an obligee that a principal will fulfill an obligation, such as completing a construction project or obtaining a business license.
Related Terms
Fidelity BondPerformance BondContract

T

Term Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance coverage for a specified period of time, providing a death benefit if the insured dies during the term.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceDeath BenefitPremium
Technology Errors and Omissions
Business
Specialized professional liability insurance for technology companies, covering claims arising from software failures, data loss, system downtime, or failure to deliver promised services.
Related Terms
Professional Liability InsuranceCyber Liability InsuranceErrors and Omissions Insurance
Trucking Insurance
Business
Specialized commercial auto insurance for trucking companies including liability coverage, physical damage, cargo insurance, and non-trucking liability for owner-operators.
Related Terms
Commercial Auto InsuranceCargo InsuranceMotor Truck Cargo
Tail Coverage
Industry
Extended reporting period coverage purchased for claims-made policies, allowing claims to be reported after the policy expires for incidents that occurred during the policy period.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyExtended Reporting PeriodProfessional Liability Insurance
Term Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance coverage for a specific period (term), typically 10, 20, or 30 years, that pays a death benefit if the insured dies during the term but has no cash value.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceDeath BenefitPremium
Travel Insurance
General
Coverage for unexpected events during travel, including trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays.
Related Terms
Trip CancellationMedical CoverageBaggage Loss
Trip Cancellation Insurance
General
Coverage that reimburses prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel for covered reasons such as illness, injury, or severe weather.
Related Terms
Travel InsuranceTrip InterruptionCovered Reason
Trip Interruption Insurance
General
Coverage that reimburses unused trip costs and additional expenses if your trip is cut short due to covered reasons like family emergencies or natural disasters.
Related Terms
Travel InsuranceTrip Cancellation InsuranceEmergency
Towing Coverage
Auto
Insurance coverage that pays for towing your vehicle to a repair facility after a breakdown or accident, typically with per-incident limits of $50-$100.
Related Terms
Roadside AssistanceAuto InsuranceBreakdown
Telematics
Auto
Technology that monitors driving behavior such as speed, braking, mileage, and time of day to determine auto insurance premiums based on actual risk.
Related Terms
Usage-Based InsuranceSafe DrivingDiscount
Tail Coverage
General
Extended reporting period coverage purchased when a claims-made policy ends, allowing claims for incidents that occurred during the policy period to be reported after it expires.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyProfessional Liability InsuranceExtended Reporting Period
Term Life Insurance
Life
Life insurance coverage for a specific period (term), typically 10, 20, or 30 years, that pays a death benefit if the insured dies during the term but has no cash value.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceDeath BenefitPremium
Travel Insurance
General
Coverage for unexpected events during travel, including trip cancellation, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays.
Related Terms
Trip CancellationMedical CoverageBaggage Loss
Trip Cancellation Insurance
General
Coverage that reimburses prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel for covered reasons such as illness, injury, or severe weather.
Related Terms
Travel InsuranceTrip InterruptionCovered Reason
Trip Interruption Insurance
General
Coverage that reimburses unused trip costs and additional expenses if your trip is cut short due to covered reasons like family emergencies or natural disasters.
Related Terms
Travel InsuranceTrip Cancellation InsuranceEmergency
Towing Coverage
Auto
Insurance coverage that pays for towing your vehicle to a repair facility after a breakdown or accident, typically with per-incident limits of $50-$100.
Related Terms
Roadside AssistanceAuto InsuranceBreakdown
Telematics
Auto
Technology that monitors driving behavior such as speed, braking, mileage, and time of day to determine auto insurance premiums based on actual risk.
Related Terms
Usage-Based InsuranceSafe DrivingDiscount
Tail Coverage
General
Extended reporting period coverage purchased when a claims-made policy ends, allowing claims for incidents that occurred during the policy period to be reported after it expires.
Related Terms
Claims-Made PolicyProfessional Liability InsuranceExtended Reporting Period

U

Underwriting
Industry
The process by which an insurer evaluates the risk of insuring a person or property and determines coverage terms and premium rates.
Related Terms
RiskPremiumActuary
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Auto
Insurance that covers you if you're in an accident caused by a driver who doesn't have liability insurance.
Related Terms
Liability CoverageCollision CoveragePremium
Umbrella Policy
General
Additional liability insurance that provides coverage beyond the limits of your standard policies.
Related Terms
Liability CoverageLiability LimitPremium
Universal Life Insurance
Life
A type of permanent life insurance with flexible premiums and death benefits, along with a cash value component.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceCash ValuePremium
Universal Life Insurance
Life
A type of permanent life insurance with flexible premiums and death benefits, plus a cash value component that earns interest based on market rates.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceCash ValueVariable Life Insurance
Usage-Based Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance pricing based on actual driving behavior monitored through telematics devices or smartphone apps, rewarding safe driving with lower premiums.
Related Terms
TelematicsSafe Driver DiscountPay-Per-Mile
Universal Life Insurance
Life
A type of permanent life insurance with flexible premiums and death benefits, plus a cash value component that earns interest based on market rates.
Related Terms
Whole Life InsuranceCash ValueVariable Life Insurance
Usage-Based Insurance
Auto
Auto insurance pricing based on actual driving behavior monitored through telematics devices or smartphone apps, rewarding safe driving with lower premiums.
Related Terms
TelematicsSafe Driver DiscountPay-Per-Mile

W

Whole Life Insurance
Life
Permanent life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime and includes a cash value component.
Related Terms
Term Life InsuranceCash ValueDeath Benefit
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Business
Required insurance that provides medical benefits and wage replacement to employees who are injured or become ill in the course of employment.
Related Terms
Employer's LiabilityOccupational InjuryDisability Insurance
Whole Life Insurance
Life
Permanent life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, builds cash value over time, and typically has level premiums that don't increase with age.
Related Terms
Term Life InsuranceCash ValueUniversal Life Insurance
Water Backup Coverage
Property
Optional homeowners insurance coverage for damage caused by water backing up through sewers or drains, which is typically excluded from standard policies.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceSewer BackupExclusion
Windstorm Deductible
Property
A separate, typically higher deductible that applies specifically to wind and hail damage, often expressed as a percentage of the dwelling coverage limit rather than a fixed dollar amount.
Related Terms
DeductibleHurricane DeductiblePercentage Deductible
Whole Life Insurance
Life
Permanent life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, builds cash value over time, and typically has level premiums that don't increase with age.
Related Terms
Term Life InsuranceCash ValueUniversal Life Insurance
Water Backup Coverage
Property
Optional homeowners insurance coverage for damage caused by water backing up through sewers or drains, which is typically excluded from standard policies.
Related Terms
Homeowners InsuranceSewer BackupExclusion
Windstorm Deductible
Property
A separate, typically higher deductible that applies specifically to wind and hail damage, often expressed as a percentage of the dwelling coverage limit rather than a fixed dollar amount.
Related Terms
DeductibleHurricane DeductiblePercentage Deductible

Continue Your Insurance Education

Explore our blog for in-depth guides and expert insights on insurance topics.