New Jersey Life Producer Practice Exam

What type of insurer has ownership comprised of policyholders?

1. Stock insurer

2. Mutual insurer

3. Fraternal insurer

4. Commercial insurer

The correct answer is: Mutual insurer

A mutual insurer is characterized by its ownership structure, which is comprised of policyholders. This means that individuals who purchase insurance policies from the mutual insurer are also members and, in essence, part owners of the company. They have voting rights in the company and can influence its governance and decisions. Furthermore, mutual insurers often distribute dividends to their policyholders, reflecting their shared ownership and the company's profitability. Other types of insurers, such as stock insurers, are owned by shareholders who may or may not be policyholders. Fraternal insurers operate as mutual organizations for a specific group with a common bond, typically providing certain benefits to a defined membership, but their focus is not primarily on the ownership structure. Commercial insurers encompass various types of insurer structures, including both stock and mutual insurers, but do not inherently imply policyholder ownership. Thus, the defining aspect of a mutual insurer is its direct ownership by the policyholders, distinguishing it from other types of insurers.