What is typically referred to as the money paid to an insurance company to obtain a policy?

The term for the money paid to an insurance company to obtain a policy is "premium." This is the regular payment that policyholders are required to make, which can be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually, depending on the terms of the policy. The premium is essential because it funds the insurance coverage, allowing the insurer to pool risk and provide financial protection against specified losses.

When considering other terms, an assessment typically refers to a charge or levy—not a payment for an insurance policy. A deductible is the amount the insured must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in, and it is not related to the initial money paid for the policy itself. A fee is a more general term that can refer to various types of payments for services and does not specifically relate to the acquisition of an insurance policy. Therefore, the use of the term "premium" is specific to insurance and correctly identifies the payment necessary for policy coverage.