What does "indeterminate premium" mean?

An "indeterminate premium" refers to a premium that can change over time based on the insurer's performance and other factors. This type of premium is not fixed, meaning that policyholders may see adjustments in their premium amounts during the life of the policy, typically tied to the insurer's financial performance and other variables impacting the risk environment.

This characteristic allows insurance companies to be adaptable in their pricing strategies as they respond to changes in mortality rates, investment returns, or other economic conditions. In policies with indeterminate premiums, the original premium quoted can serve as a guideline or estimate, but the actual amount paid may vary in future years, reflecting the competitive and often fluctuating nature of the insurance market.

In contrast to fixed premiums, which provide stability and predictability, indeterminate premiums introduce a potential for both increases and decreases, providing insight into the dynamic relationship between the insurer's health and the cost of coverage.