By Rafael Onak, InsuranceAgents.com Staff Writer
Similar to a car’s engine or a human being’s brain, underwriters are what make an insurance company’s wheels turn. Not only do they calculate the risk level of potential policyholders, but they also determine who receives a policy and the price of premiums. Their opinions play an integral role in the success of a company because if an underwriter is too conservative, the company will most likely lose customers to competitors. On the other hand, if an underwriter makes too liberal of decisions, the company will have to pay an excessive amount in claims.
Underwriters analyze insurance applications to determine whether a risk is acceptable and whether or not it will result in a loss for the company. In determining premiums, underwriters consider a number of factors about the applicant. Some of these include:
Although there are many markets for underwriters to work in, the four main ones are life insurance, health, mortgage, and property and casualty insurance. Life and health writers typically go on to specialize in group or individual policies.
To prevent insurance companies from experiencing losses, underwriters are trained to use computer applications known as “smart systems.” These systems allow them to manage risks more efficiently and rate potential policyholders. They also offer recommendations about the acceptance of a potential customer and estimate how much the premium should be.
The role of an underwriter contains several characteristics:
When all is said and done, the success of an insurance company depends on the judgment of an underwriter. Not only do they determine your risk level, but they also calculate your initial premium. As an individual looking to obtain an insurance policy, it is imperative you familiarize yourself with some of the factors that underwriters use to judge potential policyholders before applying.
Published: Tuesday 15th September 2009
