Unless otherwise specified in rule, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter:
- (1) "Advisory organization" means an entity not licensed under RCW 48.19.180 that files advisory rates with the commissioner.
- (2) "Complete filing" means a package of information containing rates, supporting information, documents and exhibits submitted to the commissioner electronically using the System for Electronic Rate and Form Filing (SERFF).
- (3) "Date filed" means the date a complete filing has been received and accepted by the commissioner.
- (4) "Filer" means a person, organization or other entity that files insurance rates with the commissioner for an insurer.
- (5) "Insurance" means the same as in RCW 48.01.040.
- (6) "Insurer" means an insurer defined in RCW 48.01.050 to which the commissioner has issued a certificate of authority under chapter 48.05 RCW.
- (7) "Member" or "subscriber" means an insurer that has paid a rating organization for services under RCW 48.19.050, and includes service purchasers.
- (8) "NAIC" means the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
(9) "Objection letter" means correspondence created in SERFF and sent by the commissioner to the filer that:
- (a) Requests clarification, documentation or other information;
- (b) Explains errors or omissions in the filing; or
- (c) Disapproves the filing under RCW 48.19.100.
(10) "Property and casualty insurance" means these types of insurance:
- (a) Property insurance defined in RCW 48.11.040;
- (b) Marine and transportation insurance defined in RCW 48.11.050;
- (c) Vehicle insurance defined in RCW 48.11.060;
- (d) General casualty insurance defined in RCW 48.11.070; and
- (e) Surety insurance defined in RCW 48.11.080.
- (11) "Rate" or "rates" means all classification manuals, loss costs, rate or rule manuals, rating plans, rating schedules, minimum rates, class rates, and rating rules that insurers must file under RCW 48.19.040 and 48.19.043.
- (12) "Rating organization" or "bureau" means an entity licensed under RCW 48.19.180 that files rates on behalf of its members, subscribers, or service purchasers.
- (13) "SERFF" means the System for Electronic Rate and Form Filing. SERFF is a proprietary NAIC computer-based application that allows insurers and other entities to create and submit rate, rule and form filings electronically to the commissioner.
- (14) "Type of insurance" means a specific type of insurance listed in the Uniform Property and Casualty Product Coding Matrix published by the NAIC and available at www.naic.org.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 48.02.060, 48.110.150. WSR 08-21-091 (Matter No. 2007-11), § 284-24-001, filed 10/15/08, effective 2/1/09.]