The specific entity listed on the policy as the primary policyholder—with the broadest rights of any insured.
The named insured is the company (or person) specifically listed on the declarations page as the policyholder. They have the broadest rights under the policy: the right to cancel, make changes, receive return premiums, and receive all policy notices. Other insureds (employees, additional insureds) have more limited rights.
The named insured is the specific company or entity listed on the declarations page of your policy as the primary policyholder. This party has the broadest rights under the policy, including the ability to cancel coverage, make changes, receive notices, and collect return premiums. Other parties may be covered but have fewer rights.
The named insured is the primary policyholder listed on the declarations page with full policy rights, while an additional insured is a third party added to the policy for limited protection. Named insureds can cancel the policy and receive premiums; additional insureds typically only receive liability coverage for specific activities and have no control over the policy.
No, only the named insured has the contractual right to cancel the policy. Additional insureds, certificate holders, and other covered parties do not have cancellation rights. This is one of the key privileges reserved for the named insured as the primary policyholder who pays premiums and controls the contract with the carrier.
Definitions are educational and may be modified by your specific policy language, endorsements, and state rules. For regulatory guidance, refer to the California Department of Insurance or the NAIC.
Last updated: July 2026.