The term “underwriter” comes from Lloyd'sof London, a historical insurance company for ocean voyages in London.  When the company would agree to back a voyage, they would sign under the list of risks, leading to the name “underwriter.”  Today, an underwriter is someone in the insurance industry who agrees to pay for damages or health insurance costs in exchange for premiums paid by the clients.


Insurance underwriters have training in assessing risks and determining the premiums that need to be paid by the clients.  Underwriters have a financial responsibility to the insurance company, but also need to bring clients into the company.  They can access information that may help determine the risks that certain clients bring to the company.