What term describes the practice when different rates are charged to individuals of the same class for insurance?

The term that describes the practice of charging different rates to individuals within the same class for insurance is discrimination. In the context of insurance, discrimination refers to the unjust or prejudicial treatment of individuals based on characteristics that should not affect their insurance rates.

In insurance, individuals are typically grouped into classifications based on risk factors such as age, gender, health status, and driving history, among others. However, when individuals within the same risk class are charged different rates without a legitimate basis for the difference, it reflects discriminatory practices. This practice can lead to issues of fairness and equity in insurance pricing, as it may unfairly disadvantage certain individuals without valid reasons related to risk assessment.

Discrimination is a central concern in insurance regulation and is monitored to ensure that consumers are treated fairly and equitably. This regulation is vital to maintain trust in the insurance system and to protect consumers from unfair pricing practices.