Essential Terminologies Related to a Life Insurance Policy

Understand the key terms and definitions used in life insurance policies.
Check Life Insurance Policies
3 min
02-September-2024

Life insurance plays a crucial role in providing financial protection and peace of mind to individuals and their families. However, navigating the world of life insurance can be daunting, especially with the myriad of terminologies involved. Understanding the life insurance glossary is essential for choosing the right plan that meets your needs and preferences. Let us delve into some common life insurance terminologies and their explanations.

Life insurance glossary: Different types of basic terminologies that you need to know

Here is a quick life insurance glossary for you to know the commonly used terms in the life insurance policy. Understand the meaning of these terms:

  • Policyholder: The policyholder is the individual who owns the life insurance policy and pays the premiums to the insurance company.
  • Life assured: The life assured is the person whose life is insured under the policy. In the event of their death, the insurer pays out the death cover to the designated beneficiary.
  • Nominee: The nominee is the person chosen by the policyholder to receive the death cover in case of the life assured's demise.
  • Sum assured: The sum assured is the guaranteed amount of money that the insurer pays out to the nominee upon the life assured's death.
  • Policy term: The policy term is the duration for which the life insurance policy remains in force. It defines the period during which the insurer provides coverage to the policyholder.
  • Premium: The premium is the amount paid by the policyholder to the insurance company to keep the policy active. It can be paid monthly, quarterly, annually, or as a lump sum.
  • Death cover: The death cover is the amount payable to the nominee upon the death of the life assured during the policy term.
  • Maturity benefit: In some life insurance policies, if the life assured survives the policy term, the insurer pays out a maturity benefit to the policyholder.
  • Riders: Riders are additional benefits that policyholders can add to their base life insurance policy for enhanced coverage. Common riders include critical illness cover, accidental death cover, and waiver of premium.
  • Claim: A claim is a formal request made by the nominee or the policyholder to the insurance company to receive the death cover or maturity benefit as per the terms of the policy.
  • Free look period: The free look period is a specified period after purchasing the policy during which the policyholder can review the terms and conditions. If dissatisfied, they can cancel the policy and receive a refund of premiums paid.

Explore the different types of life insurance policies.

Conclusion

Understanding life insurance terminologies is essential for making informed decisions when selecting a policy. By grasping the meanings of these terms, individuals can navigate the complexities of life insurance and choose the right plan to protect themselves and their loved ones financially.

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Frequently asked questions

What is life insurance terminology?
Life insurance terminology refers to the specific terms and phrases used in the life insurance industry to describe various aspects of policies, coverage, and benefits. Understanding these terms is essential for individuals looking to purchase life insurance to make informed decisions.
What are the general terms of life insurance?
General terms of life insurance include policyholder, life assured, nominee, sum assured, policy term, premium, death cover, maturity benefit, riders, claim, and free look period. Each term plays a crucial role in understanding and managing life insurance policies effectively.
How to choose the right life insurance policy?
Choosing the right life insurance policy involves assessing your financial needs, understanding the types of policies available (such as term insurance, whole life insurance, or endowment plans), comparing premiums and coverage amounts. You must also evaluate the additional riders, consider insurer’s reputation, and review the policy terms and conditions. Consulting with a financial advisor can also provide valuable guidance in selecting the most suitable policy for your needs.
What are the factors that determine life insurance premium?

Several factors influence life insurance premium calculations, including age, gender, health condition, lifestyle habits (such as smoking), occupation, coverage amount, policy term, and medical history. Younger individuals in good health typically pay lower premiums, while older individuals or those with pre-existing health conditions may face higher premiums. Additionally, certain occupations or risky activities may result in higher premium rates. Insurers assess these factors to determine the level of risk associated with insuring the individual and adjust premiums accordingly.

What does the term ‘insurance binder’ mean?

An insurance binder is a temporary document provided by an insurer that confirms coverage until the official policy is issued. It ensures that protection is in place while the policy details are finalised.

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*T&C Apply - Bajaj Finance Limited (‘BFL’) is a registered corporate agent of third party insurance products of Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited, HDFC Life Insurance Company Limited, Future Generali Life Insurance Company Limited, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company Limited, SBI General Insurance Company Limited, ACKO General Insurance Limited, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company Limited, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company Limited, Tata AIG General Insurance Company Limited, The New India Assurance Company Limited, Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Company Limited, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited , Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited, Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company Limited and Care Health Insurance Company Limited under the IRDAI composite CA registration number CA0101. Please note that, BFL does not underwrite the risk or act as an insurer. Your purchase of an insurance product is purely on a voluntary basis after your exercise of an independent due diligence on the suitability, viability of any insurance product. Any decision to purchase insurance product is solely at your own risk and responsibility and BFL shall not be liable for any loss or damage that any person may suffer, whether directly or indirectly. Please refer insurer's website for Policy Wordings. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions and exclusions please read the product sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale. Tax benefits applicable if any, will be as per the prevailing tax laws. Tax laws are subject to change. Tax laws are subject to change. BFL does NOT provide Tax/Investment advisory services. Please consult your advisors before proceeding to purchase an insurance product. Visitors are hereby informed that their information submitted on the website may also be shared with insurers. BFL is also a distributor of other third-party products from Assistance Services providers such as CPP Assistance Services Pvt. Ltd., Bajaj Finserv Health Ltd. etc. All product information such as premium, benefits, exclusions, sum insured, value added services, etc. are authentic and solely based on the information received from the respective insurance company or the respective Assistance service provider company.

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