V – Glossary of Insurance Terms
This page provides a glossary of insurance terms and definitions that are commonly used in the insurance business. New terms will be added to the glossary over time.
The definitions in this glossary are developed by the NAIC Research and Actuarial Department staff based on various insurance references. These definitions represent a common or general use of the term. Some words and/or phrases may be defined differently by other entities, or used in a context such that the definition shown may not be applicable. naic.org
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Valued Policy – an insurance contract for which the value is agreed upon in advance and is not related to the amount of the insured loss.
Valued Policy Law – state legislation which specifies that the insured shall receive the face amount of the policy in the event of a total loss to a dwelling rather than the actual cash value regardless of the principle of indemnity.
Variable Annuity – an annuity contract under which the premium payments are used to purchase stock and the value of each unit is relative to the value of the investment portfolio.
Variable Life Insurance – life insurance whose face value and/or duration varies depending upon the value of underlying securities.
Variable Universal Life – combines the flexible premium features of universal life with the component of variable life in which excess credited to the cash value of the account depends on investment results of separate accounts. The policyholder selects the accounts into which the premium payments are to be made.
Viatical Settlements – contracts or agreements in which a buyer agrees to purchase all or a part of a life insurance policy.
Vision – limited benefit expense policies. Provides benefits for eye care and eye care accessories. Generally provides a stated dollar amount per annual eye examination. Benefits often include a stated dollar amount for glasses and contacts. May include surgical benefits for injury or sickness associated with the eye.
