Definition of "Sex discrimination"

Classification of insured life and health risks based on the sex of the proposed insured. Gender has long been one of many factors in classifying, accepting, and rating risks. For example, because experience shows that women live longer than men, life insurance rates for women are lower. By the same token, annuity payments are lower for women because it is expected that they will be paid out for more years. On the other hand, women have sometimes paid lower rates for auto insurance. Insurance rating by sex became an issue in the early 1980s when many women charged that it was discriminatory. They demanded through unisex legislation to be rated no differently. Although insurers have resisted it, individual states have passed laws prohibiting the use of sex in risk classification.

image of a real estate dictionary page

Have a question or comment?

We're here to help.

*** Your email address will remain confidential.
 

 

Popular Insurance Terms

Methods for payment of the value of a policy. An insurance company can select one of three options in settlement of a loss: make a cash payment; take possession of damaged or destroyed ...

Smallest acceptable premium for which an insurance company will write a policy. This minimum charge is necessary to cover fixed expenses in placing the policy on the books. ...

U.S. government agency (formerly the Atomic Energy Commission) responsible for regulating the nuclear energy industry. The commission also provides supplemental insurance for nuclear ...

Same as term Convertible Term Life Insurance: coverage that can be converted into permanent insurance regardless of an insured's physical condition and without a medical examination. The ...

The term pro rata cancellation comes from the Latin term pro rata, which means in proportion or according to a certain rate. The term pro rata cancellation is used in the insurance business ...

Projections of future accidental losses based on analyses of historical loss patterns. A projected loss picture is used to determine the pure cost of protection and the resultant basic ...

Association of independent agents whose objective is to further the interests of these agents through education, lobbying, and professional ethics. ...

Relinquishment of rights in an insurance policy or pension plan. For example, by withdrawing contributions to a pension plan, an employee forfeits future retirement benefits under that plan. ...

Coverage for damage or destruction of property due to a crime, and property lost due to a burglary, whether successful or attempted. An endorsement provides coverage for robbery and theft ...

Popular Insurance Questions