A form of variable annuity contract where the contract holder pays sales charges up front rather than eventually having to pay a surrender charge. ACCELERATED DEATH BENEFITS

Coverage for accidental injury, accidental death, and related health expenses. Benefits will pay for preventative services, medical expenses, and catastrophic care, with limits. ACTUAL CASH VALUE

An insurance professional skilled in the analysis, evaluation, and management of statistical information. Evaluates insurance firms’ reserves, determines rates and rating methods, and determines other [..]

An individual employed by a property/casualty insurer to evaluate losses and settle policyholder claims. These adjusters differ from public adjusters, who negotiate with insurers on behalf of policyho [..]

An insurance company licensed and authorized to do business in a particular state. ADVERSE SELECTION

Companies that market and sell products via independent agents. AGENT

An insurance company incorporated under the laws of a foreign country, as opposed to a foreign insurance company that does business in states outside its own. ALLIED LINES

Alternative to going to court to settle disputes. Methods include arbitration, where disputing parties agree to be bound to the decision of an independent third party, and mediation, where a third par [..]

Covers the cost of administering an annuity contract. ANNUAL STATEMENT

The person(s) who receives the income from an annuity contract. Usually the owner of the contract or his or her spouse. ANNUITIZATION