Who is referred to as a "policyholder" in an insurance context?

In an insurance context, a "policyholder" refers specifically to the individual or entity that owns an insurance policy. This designation is crucial as it establishes who has the rights and responsibilities under the policy. The policyholder is the person or organization that pays the premiums to the insurance company and is entitled to benefits provided by the policy in the event of a covered loss or claim.

This designation is distinct from the insurance company, which is the entity providing the coverage, and the agent, who acts as a representative to help clients find and purchase insurance. The underwriter's role is to assess the risk associated with insuring an individual or entity but does not include ownership or responsibility for the policy. Understanding the role of the policyholder is fundamental to comprehending how insurance agreements function, as they hold the policy and have the authority to make changes to it or to file claims under it.