Glossary
U
- UMBRELLA POLICY
Coverage for losses above the limit of an underlying policy or policies such as homeowners and auto insurance. While it applies to losses over the dollar amount in the underlying policies, terms of coverage are sometimes broader than those of underlying policies.
- UNBUNDLED CONTRACTS
A form of annuity contract that gives purchasers the freedom to choose among certain optional features in their contract.
- UNDERINSURANCE
The result of the policyholder’s failure to buy sufficient insurance. An underinsured policyholder may only receive part of the cost of replacing or repairing damaged items covered in the policy.
- UNDERWRITING
Examining, accepting, or rejecting insurance risks and classifying the ones that are accepted, in order to charge appropriate premiums for them.
- UNDERWRITING INCOME
The insurer’s profit on the insurance sale after all expenses and losses have been paid. When premiums aren’t sufficient to cover claims and expenses, the result is an underwriting loss. Underwriting losses are typically offset by investment income.
- UNEARNED PREMIUM
The portion of a premium already received by the insurer under which protection has not yet been provided. The entire premium is not earned until the policy period expires, even though premiums are typically paid in advance.
- UNINSURABLE RISK
Risks for which it is difficult for someone to get insurance. (See Insurable risk )
- UNINSURED MOTORISTS COVERAGE
Portion of an auto insurance policy that protects a policyholder from uninsured and hit-and-run drivers.
- UNIVERSAL LIFE INSURANCE
A flexible premium policy that combines protection against premature death with a type of savings vehicle, known as a cash value account, that typically earns a money market rate of interest. Death benefits can be changed during the life of the policy within limits, generally subject to a medical examination. Once funds accumulate in the cash value account, the premium can be paid at any time but the policy will lapse if there isn’t enough money to cover annual mortality charges and administrative costs.
- UTILIZATION REVIEW
See Medical utilization review
Glossary terms and definitions provide a brief review of common insurance terms and definitions used in the insurance industry. Some terms and definitions may vary by state or may not be applicable for all insurance and financial products. This glossary is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply to your individual insurance contracts. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract. Your personal insurance contracts are the controlling documents. Additionally, this informational resource is provided as a learning tool and does not replace your rights and obligations or the rights and obligations of the insurance company, agent or agency. If you have questions you should consult with your insurance agent, your insurance company and review the policy language of your insurance contract.
Glossary content provided by Insurance Information Institute