Who is referred to as the "policyholder" in insurance?

The term "policyholder" refers specifically to the individual or entity that owns an insurance policy. This designation implies that the policyholder has control over the policy, including the ability to make decisions related to it, such as filing claims, changing beneficiaries, or even canceling the policy. The policyholder is also responsible for maintaining the coverage by paying the premiums, but ownership of the policy is the key characteristic in this context.

Other options do not accurately capture the definition of a policyholder. An insurance agent, while integral to the process of purchasing insurance, does not own the policy; rather, they facilitate the transaction between the insurer and the policyholder. Simply being responsible for paying premiums does not suffice for ownership, as there can be other arrangements where someone may pay the premiums on behalf of the policyholder without owning the policy themselves. Lastly, individuals listed on an insurance claim may have a legitimate interest in the policy due to their involvement in a covered event, but they do not possess the ownership rights or responsibilities that define a policyholder.