Which statement is true regarding the exchange of consideration among parties involved in an insurance contract?

• A. It must be equal
• B. It can be unequal
• C. It is illegal to exchange consideration
• D. It must be negotiated with a broker

Answer: (B)

In an insurance contract, consideration means something of value is exchanged by both sides: the insured pays a premium, and the insurer promises to pay covered claims if a loss occurs. These two parts don’t have to be equal in amount or value—the premium and the potential benefits serve different purposes and are priced based on risk, duration, and coverage. The important point is that both parties give something of value, not that the values are the same. It’s also not illegal to exchange consideration, and you don’t have to go through a broker—coverage can be bought directly from the insurer or through an agent. So the true idea is that the exchange of consideration can be unequal.