Expense load
The insurer's administration, commission and margin.
The expense load is the portion of premium that is not expected claims — administration, claims adjudication, commissions, taxes and the insurer's profit margin.
It is quoted as a percentage of premium or a per-certificate charge, and it is negotiable, particularly when a group has grown since the load was set.
What this means for a BC plan
In our experience this is the line most BC employers never question, and the one where a well-formed challenge most often produces movement — especially where headcount has grown but the load has not been revisited.
Related terms
Where this comes up
Why renewals increase · All glossary terms · Ask an advisor directly
General information only, not advice for your specific plan. See our legal and licensing disclosures.