Different types of term insurance terminologies
Below are some of the most common and essential terminology of term plans:
Policyholder
The person who buys the policy, pays the premium, and holds the legal rights to modify the policy details.
Life Assured
The individual whose life is covered under the policy. If the life assured passes away during the policy term, the death benefit is paid.
Nominee
The person appointed by the policyholder to receive the sum assured in case of the life assured's death. Typically, nominees are close family members.
Sum Assured
The guaranteed amount that the insurer pays to the nominee if the life assured passes away during the policy term. This amount is decided at the time of purchase.
Policy Term
The length of time for which the policy covers. It can vary anywhere from 5 years to 40 years or more based on the insurer.
Premium
The payment required for maintaining the policy. The payment can be made on a monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annual basis.
Payment Term / Mode
This refers to how and when premiums are paid. For example, monthly premium payment mode or annual payment mode.
Death Benefit
The amount payable to the nominee if the life assured dies during the policy term. In term insurance, the death benefit and sum assured are usually the same, unless riders or options change the structure.
Maturity Benefit
Most pure term plans do not offer maturity benefits. However, return-of-premium term plans refund the total premiums paid if the policyholder survives the term.
Riders
Additional optional benefits added to a base term plan to enhance coverage. Examples include accidental death rider and critical illness rider.
Claim
The official request filed by the nominee or policyholder to receive the policy benefits. In case of death, the nominee files a death claim.
Free Look Period
A short window (usually 15–30 days) provided after policy purchase to review the policy terms. If the buyer disagrees with the conditions, they can cancel the policy and receive a refund as per guidelines.