Insurance Broker Certification Practice Exam

What is it called when an insured makes truthful statements on the application for insurance and pays the required premium?

1. Competence

2. Consideration

3. Legal purpose

4. Offer

The correct answer is: Consideration

The situation described refers to the concept of 'consideration' in insurance contracts. Consideration is a fundamental element of a contract that requires both parties to provide something of value. In the case of an insurance application, the insured provides truthful statements and pays the required premium, which serves as their consideration. This action establishes a binding contract between the insurer and the insured, ensuring that the insurer will provide coverage as outlined in the policy, while the insured has fulfilled their obligations by offering truthful information and payment. This principle is essential because a contract must have consideration to be valid; without it, there is no mutual agreement to create legal obligations. In contrast, terms like 'competence' pertain to the capacity of the parties to understand the contract. 'Legal purpose' relates to ensuring that the contract's objectives are lawful. 'Offer' is about proposing terms but does not encompass the mutual exchange of value necessary to create a binding agreement. Thus, 'consideration' is the correct term that accurately defines the scenario presented.