Illinois Health Insurance Practice Exam

When is an insurance company obligated to renew a policy under the Renewability provisions; guaranteed renewable provision?

1. If there is a change in premium rates

2. At any time upon request of the insured

3. If the insured has been under the influence of intoxicants

4. Must renew the policy, but can only change rates by class

The correct answer is: Must renew the policy, but can only change rates by class

The guaranteed renewable provision requires an insurance company to renew a policy as long as the premiums are paid and the conditions of the policy are met. Under this provision, the insurer is obligated to renew the policy regardless of individual circumstances of the insured and must do so at the end of each policy term. However, insurers can adjust the premium rates, but they can only do so on a class basis, not on an individual basis. This means that rates can be increased for a group of policyholders but not specifically targeted at an individual due to their claims history or other personal factors. This is important for consumers as it provides a level of protection from discrimination and ensures that they will continue to have coverage as long as they maintain their payment obligations. In contrast, the other options present different scenarios where coverage may not be guaranteed as required under the renewability provision. For example, while changes in premium rates can occur, they must abide by the stipulations of the guaranteed renewable provision, hence the emphasis on class changes rather than individual cases.